Sunday, 21 Dec 2008

Lucy’s First Piano Recital

Lucy had her first piano recital today at Wanda & James Scofield’s lovely home here in Kailua.  After only two months of lessons, Lucy managed to play two songs: “Jingle Bells” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”

Well done! Lucy.  We are so very proud of you.

Merry Christmas to all our friends and family.

Monday, 24 Nov 2008

Citizen of the United States of America.

We are pleased to announce that Lisa is now a citizen of the United States of America.

Having sworn off allegiance to princes, potentates, and the like; and pledging to support and defend the constitution of the United States – It’s official — Mum’s a Yank!

Watch the video to see the RED, WHITE, and BLUE celebration.

Well Done, Mum!

Friday, 14 Nov 2008

Life here is beginning to return to normal now that whole family is back together again.

Papa was especially impressed with the work Mama and Lucy completed on the yard and around the house. Trees cut down, hedges trimmed, steps painted, driveway strimmed…it is all very impressive.

On the “Academic Front:” Lucy was awarded “Student of the Week” for her First Grade class at school. This award is Lucy’s third “Student of the Week,” as she received the award twice last year in Ms. Beaucage’s (K2) Kindergarten Class.  We are so very proud of Lucy for her sustained superior performance in all areas.  Well Done, Lucy!

Thank you for your prayers.

Monday, 10 Nov 2008

Ella was very cooperative when the doctor removed her “chin to chest” sutures this morning.

She was less so when it came time to remove her PICC line – once she was wrapped up like a burrito she came around and the line was removed.

After one final check by Dr. Rutter, Ella and Papa left the hospital and headed for the hotel in Blue Ash.

As you can see from the photo, our little “Kailua Girl” is bracing herself for the cold weather outside.

Thank you for your prayers.

Saturday, 08 Nov 2008

Ella likes to start her weekend with a routine she calls “Spa Saturday.”

The day begins with a relaxing pink bubble bath that lasts at least 30 minutes. Once warm and toasty in big white towels, Ella likes a scalp massage. A chignon by her stylist conveys the duality that is Ella’s essence: carefree and classic.

Next comes some fun time with her cards and sticker book. After breakfast in bed, Ella has her “healing touch” body massage and a nap.

Check back later to find out about the rest of Ella’s Spa Saturday.

Saturday, 01 Nov 2008

“Pinch, Punch, First of the month…

Ella continues to improve! Each day she is a bit stronger and a bit healthier. Today, during her first post-op trach tube change, we were able to get a good look at Ella’s surgery site and stoma.

Everything looks pink and healthy. Best of all, we are once again allowed to use Ella’s regular velcro trach ties – they are much more comfortable than the white cotton ribbon that is used during surgery to literally tie the trach in place.

Ella will soon get her “liberty card.” This will allow us to leave her room to use the play deck and play room – we can hardly wait.

Lastly, Ella is helping Papa readjust to civilian life. She sounded her version of “General Quarters” shortly after midnight on 01 Nov 2008, in honor of the historic passing.

Thank you for your prayers

Friday, 31 Oct 2008

Happy Halloween!

A whole cast of characters has interacted with Ella today – from Batman to Snow White. Halloween is a very special holiday at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital – everyone is in costume and full of “Trick or Treat” mischief.

Ella was able to play her part today, thanks to Ella’s “child life specialist” Allie, who brought her a big bag of Halloween presents and a Disney Princess costume.

Ella loved it all and smiled throughout the day.

Tuesday, 28 Oct 2008

Ella has done exceptionally well during the first 24 hours since her surgery. She is eating and drinking with few difficulties.

The Pain Management Team here is doing a great job to ensure Ella’s comfort during her recovery.

As we expected, ice cream still ranks highest on Ella’s list of favorite hospital foods.

28 Oct 2008, 06:20 12 hours Post-Op

Monday, 27 Oct 2008

We arrived at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital on Monday morning, shortly before the 08:15 “show time” for Ella’s 09:45 surgery. The “pre-surgical routine was brightened by the many friendly faces we have come to know over the past 18 months. Beth, one of our favorite PACU (Post Anesthesia Care Unit) nurses stopped by and played with Ella for about 15 minutes.

Four hours into the procedure, Ella’s surgeon sent word that he was unable to perform the planned procedure. Infection had compromised tracheal cartilage repaired in last April’s resection.

Instead, he performed a second “tracheal resection.” Thankfully, Ella was stable and safe through it all. The surgery concluded several hours later then originally scheduled. After debriefing with the doctor, I spoke with Lisa from the PACU. However, I could only bring myself to tell her Ella was safe. I called early the following day and told her the unhappy details.
Ella will remain in the hospital for two week. During which time she will undergo an IV antibiotic treatment regime of Zosyn (piperacillin/tazobactam, 1500mg/8 hours) and Vancomycin (254mg/8 hours).

Thank you for your prayers