Re: Address

Hi Cass,

Merlin is doing great! He has learned so much in such a short time. So smart! He will come, sit and "down"(lay). He is usually gentle with the kids and is just such a pleasant little guy. Merlin is sleeping though the night. (yes!!!) And we are using the crate with good success.

Our trainer TJ is really pleased with his progress. I'm thrilled! I am totally enjoying Merlin!

He did have an ear infection and threw up a lot a few days ago. We took him to the vet, and the vet said he should be fine. Sure enough, he is. Overall he has a clean bill of health.

Kyle loves Merlin and they play well. Merlin is patient with Kyle and gives him plenty of kisses. We all really love the little guy. For sure we will keep you posted as time goes on! Hope all is well with you.

Spring

On Oct 28, 2011, at 7:21 PM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:

>
> Hi Spring,
> I just wanted to check in and see how things are going. I hope all is well
> and that you are enjoying Merlin. Just let me know if you have any
> questions.
> Thanks,
> Cass
>
>
>
>> Super thanks for the ideas. I have been talking to the family at home and
>> they LOVE Merlin. My oldest is in heaven! She has already taught him to
>> sit! And she taught him to kiss (lick her cheek) and he is starting to
>> come when called by name! My husband is really happy with him too. He
>> sounded quite impressed by the sweetie. I really wish I was home right
>> now! I told them they HAVE to send me pictures and maybe a video too!
>>
>> They have been exploring everywhere - down by the river, up by the pond
>> and all over the house! I told her to let the poor thing rest. She
>> said he is cuddly and is following her everywhere. Our 2 year old
>> Dimitri loves him too. He is very excited. My oldest Lauren said Merlin
>> is just like Dimitri! Excited and bouncy but really fun. He hasn't
>> mouth them at all.
>>
>> So as you can tell Merlin is settling in nicely! I'll keep you posted!
>>
>> Spring
>>
>>
>>
>> On Oct 14, 2011, at 6:04 PM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:
>>
>>> Try leaving the crate where he can access it this evening with the door
>>> open. Occasionally place one of his toys in there and encourage him to
>>> go
>>> get it. Make sure the door is secured open so it does not close on him
>>> when he goes to get the toy. I don't usually recommend putting food in
>>> their crates....but if he is very hesitant, go ahead and prop the door
>>> open and place a few kibbles of food inside to encourage him to go in.
>>> Once he realizes he can go in and out and nothing bad happens, he should
>>> eventually be fine with it......but it really comes down to how bad his
>>> experience was (or at least how bad he perceived it to be). It could be
>>> that he will do just find.....so don't make a big deal about it unless
>>> Merlin does. If you act as those nothing is wrong, he may do just fine.
>>> I
>>> am sure TJ may also be able to give you some advice if there are any
>>> issues.
>>> Keep me posted.
>>> Cass
>>>
>>>
>>>> Thanks. Any suggestions about if he is unhappy with the crate tonight?
>>>>
>>>> Spring
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> On Oct 14, 2011, at 5:19 PM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> Thank you for letting me know he arrived ok. I always hate sending
>>>>> them
>>>>> freight.....it seems like it always takes them a few days to get over
>>>>> the
>>>>> shock of it all. Don't be surprised if he does not want to go in his
>>>>> crate
>>>>> tonight.....this is one of my biggest issues with crate
>>>>> training....once
>>>>> they associate the crate with a stressful event, they will sometimes
>>>>> hate
>>>>> it for life.....lets hope that is not the case for Merlin.
>>>>> Don't be surprised if it takes him a few days to settle from the whole
>>>>> event....once he settles in and you get to see the real Merlin....I am
>>>>> sure you will love him.
>>>>> Keep me posted, and I hope you have a safe trip home tomorrow.
>>>>> Cass
>>>>>
>>>>>> Hi Cass, you'll be happy to Alan got Merlin and he is fine. A little
>>>>>> scared but cuddly.
>>>>>> Here we go!
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Spring
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>> On Oct 13, 2011, at 11:41 PM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:
>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Hi Spring and Alan,
>>>>>>> Merlin's things should have arrived yesterday or today. Merlin will
>>>>>>> be
>>>>>>> on
>>>>>>> his flight tomorrow.....United flight 391 arriving at 1:16pm. You
>>>>>>> will
>>>>>>> most likely have to pick him up at the Cargo area....but I would
>>>>>>> recommend
>>>>>>> you call to make sure. Unfortunately your contract and check has not
>>>>>>> yet
>>>>>>> arrived.....given the situation we decided not to hold up his
>>>>>>> shipment,
>>>>>>> but it does mean that I will have to mail you a copy of the signed
>>>>>>> contract separately.
>>>>>>> If you could please confirm that Alan will be available to pick up
>>>>>>> Merlin
>>>>>>> tomorrow it would be greatly appreciated.
>>>>>>> I hope all is well with Kyle.
>>>>>>> Talk to you soon,
>>>>>>> Cass
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>> I forgot to tell you our address. It's
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>> Beans
>>>>>>>> 872 Bogus view drive
>>>>>>>> Eagle ID 83616
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>> Thanks!
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>> Spring
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>> On Oct 9, 2011, at 10:28 AM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>> Hi Spring,
>>>>>>>>> Thank you for the picture of Kyle.....he is adorable. I have high
>>>>>>>>> hopes
>>>>>>>>> for Merlin as well.
>>>>>>>>> I have checked on flights for shipping him to Boise; below you
>>>>>>>>> will
>>>>>>>>> find
>>>>>>>>> the arival times for Friday and Saturday (these are all direct
>>>>>>>>> flights).
>>>>>>>>> Please check with your husband to see if he has a preference for
>>>>>>>>> any
>>>>>>>>> of
>>>>>>>>> these, and I will check on the pricing for that flight.
>>>>>>>>> Friday October 14
>>>>>>>>> 1:16pm
>>>>>>>>> 5:34pm
>>>>>>>>> 8:40pm
>>>>>>>>> 11:39pm
>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>> Saturday October 15
>>>>>>>>> 1:24pm
>>>>>>>>> 2:20pm
>>>>>>>>> 5:53pm
>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>> Talk to you soon,
>>>>>>>>> Cass
>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>> Hi Cass, I thought you might enjoy seeing a photo of Kyle. This
>>>>>>>>>> was
>>>>>>>>>> right
>>>>>>>>>> before his surgery at the Boise river near our home. (usually his
>>>>>>>>>> hair
>>>>>>>>>> is
>>>>>>>>>> a little less messy:)). I got the contract and will get that
>>>>>>>>>> filled
>>>>>>>>>> out
>>>>>>>>>> and returned. I think the next mail day is Tuesday due to
>>>>>>>>>> Columbus
>>>>>>>>>> day.
>>>>>>>>>> And the name I wanted is Merlin. I'm still really excited about
>>>>>>>>>> this
>>>>>>>>>> little dog and his potential. I'm so ready for another dog and I
>>>>>>>>>> feel
>>>>>>>>>> really positive about all the benefits for our family and Kyle as
>>>>>>>>>> well!
>>>>>>>>>> Spring
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>
>

Bubble fun!

Indian summer river fun

Dimitri at the river

Wouldn't have been this in Russia...

How do I love thee?

I love thee enough to not freak out when you put your hearing aid in the toilet and I flushed it accidentally because I was working with Sierra on music and left you too long!

I love thee enough to clean up the dog poop in the movie room because you misses his signals while you were "watching" him so I could lament the flushed $4000 hearing aide and FM system!

Bad day! :(

Spring

Merlin and Kyle

He's not allowed on the couch any more. But it was too precious. Merlins a labradoodle.

Post op day 14

I feel like I'm swimming upstream in a fast moving current. My family seems to combine against my efforts at cleanliness and order. I'm exhausted and we are just getting started. Sigh. My prayer tonight is simply to make it till bedtime. I can't remember what day of the week it is or the date. Its all a blur.

Spring

Back in the saddle

Well it's back to normal for the Beans. Everyone wanted a lot of attention. The new puppy is adorable!

We got a delicious supper cooked by Grandma Bowden and a lot of meals brought in by kind ward members. We are all set for a long time.

Kyle loved being home. He hugged and hugged Dimitri! He drove his green car around for a couple hours. He ate better than since we left. He smiled for all! It's good to see him doing so well.

How am I well, let's just skip that tonight. I won't be objective.

Spring

Sweet Kyle Cincinnati Day 11

I forgot to say that while I was crying on the last plane Kyle looked at me with a very worried expression and reached up and hugged me several times and then kissed me a few times. Ah how sweet his heart. He had no idea his yelling was my last straw....

Spring

Cincinnati Day 11

I made it to the last leg of our travel home before the flood gate for tears opened and I had a good cry. We had just over an hour in the airport before our connecting flight home. Kyle was yelling at everyone and he needed a Colon flush. I tried to go to the Delta Crown Room but I didn't have the right card to get in and would have had to pay $25 to get in. Alan texted me that the price was so big deal but it was too me.

We headed to the public bathroom to do a flush there and hopefully get to our plane in time. I was so stressed I was shaking. When we finished we left and Kyle proceeded to yell at everyone! I was near tears at that point. On the boarding ramp to the plane a man offered to carry one of our bags. That was nice and I carried Kyle. Our seat was the last row in the plane and Kyle yelled all the way there. While I sat down I promised the people near us he wouldn't yell all the way to Boise. Then I started crying. I cried till we were in the air. Eventually my stress diminished and Kyle settled down. We just landed and now I'm going to greet my kids. Wow. I hope I'm up to this. Virginia said she is bringing us dinner tonight. Thank goodness!

Spring

Going home!

11 days in Cincinnati for surgery! We can't wait to get home!!

Cincinnati Day 10&11

Yesterday and today have been a blur. Once you leave the hospital the caregivers responsibility goes up several notches. It's nice to have more control but it's also tiring to be in-charge of everything:
12 medications a day for Kyle right now. 6 procedures a day. Motherly comfort to give and activities to plan so he isn't bored but isn't worn out. Meals to find, laundry to do, transportation to provide, family at home to keep in touch with, email and business to keep up on etc etc etc.

We are finally on the plane home! We had to get up at 5 am (3 am MST). Kyle is really excited to be going home. "Home home home" he signed". Very sweet.

We are excited to see Lauren, Sierra, Dimitri, Dad and Grandma and Grandpa. We are also excited to meet our new labradoodle puppy Merlin! He arrived yesterday and is going to grow up to be Kyles service dog.

Honestly (which does not mean I don't want to go home) I'm a little afraid of how it will feel to step back into my responsibilities at home. They are staggering. I really hope I can have help with kids and meals and housework for a while till I "get my feet" back under me.

I really hope no one asks me "what's for dinner" because I don't know. I want a big spring-mix salad with kidney beans, mushrooms, olives, beets (not pickled), carrot shreds, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, spinach, purple cabbage, sunflower seeds and light feta cheese, and light balsamic vinegarette. With a side of a high fiber muffin. I want someone else to clean it all up and I want to go to bed!

Spring

Cincinnati day 11

Going home!

Welcome home Merlin!

It's been a huge success so far!  

Spring 

Begin forwarded message:

From: Spring Bean <sabean@comcast.net>
Date: October 14, 2011 6:19:13 PM EDT
To: "linderla@linderlabradoodles.com" <linderla@linderlabradoodles.com>
Subject: Re: Address

Super thanks for the ideas. I have been talking to the family at home and they LOVE Merlin. My oldest is in heaven!  She has already taught him to sit!  And she taught him to kiss (lick her cheek) and he is starting to come when called by name!  My husband is really happy with him too. He sounded quite impressed by the sweetie. I really wish I was home right now!  I told them they HAVE to send me pictures and maybe a video too!

  They have been exploring everywhere - down by the river, up by the pond and all over the house!  I told her to let the poor thing rest. She said he is cuddly and is following her everywhere. Our 2 year old Dimitri loves him too. He is very excited. My oldest Lauren said Merlin is just like Dimitri!  Excited and bouncy but really fun. He hasn't mouth them at all.

So as you can tell Merlin is settling in nicely!  I'll keep you posted!

Spring



On Oct 14, 2011, at 6:04 PM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:

Try leaving the crate where he can access it this evening with the door

open. Occasionally place one of his toys in there and encourage him to go

get it. Make sure the door is secured open so it does not close on him

when he goes to get the toy. I don't usually recommend putting food in

their crates....but if he is very hesitant, go ahead and prop the door

open and place a few kibbles of food inside to encourage him to go in.

Once he realizes he can go in and out and nothing bad happens, he should

eventually be fine with it......but it really comes down to how bad his

experience was (or at least how bad he perceived it to be). It could be

that he will do just find.....so don't make a big deal about it unless

Merlin does. If you act as those nothing is wrong, he may do just fine. I

am sure TJ may also be able to give you some advice if there are any

issues.

Keep me posted.

Cass

Thanks. Any suggestions about if he is unhappy with the crate tonight?

Spring

On Oct 14, 2011, at 5:19 PM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:

Thank you for letting me know he arrived ok. I always hate sending them

freight.....it seems like it always takes them a few days to get over

the

shock of it all. Don't be surprised if he does not want to go in his

crate

tonight.....this is one of my biggest issues with crate training....once

they associate the crate with a stressful event, they will sometimes

hate

it for life.....lets hope that is not the case for Merlin.

Don't be surprised if it takes him a few days to settle from the whole

event....once he settles in and you get to see the real Merlin....I am

sure you will love him.

Keep me posted, and I hope you have a safe trip home tomorrow.

Cass

Hi Cass, you'll be happy to Alan got Merlin and he is fine. A little

scared but cuddly.

Here we go!

Spring

On Oct 13, 2011, at 11:41 PM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:

Hi Spring and Alan,

Merlin's things should have arrived yesterday or today. Merlin will be

on

his flight tomorrow.....United flight 391 arriving at 1:16pm. You will

most likely have to pick him up at the Cargo area....but I would

recommend

you call to make sure. Unfortunately your contract and check has not

yet

arrived.....given the situation we decided not to hold up his

shipment,

but it does mean that I will have to mail you a copy of the signed

contract separately.

If you could please confirm that Alan will be available to pick up

Merlin

tomorrow it would be greatly appreciated.

I hope all is well with Kyle.

Talk to you soon,

Cass

I forgot to tell you our address. It's

Beans

872 Bogus view drive

Eagle ID 83616

Thanks!

Spring

On Oct 9, 2011, at 10:28 AM, linderla@linderlabradoodles.com wrote:

Hi Spring,

Thank you for the picture of Kyle.....he is adorable. I have high

hopes

for Merlin as well.

I have checked on flights for shipping him to Boise; below you will

find

the arival times for Friday and Saturday (these are all direct

flights).

Please check with your husband to see if he has a preference for any

of

these, and I will check on the pricing for that flight.

Friday October 14

1:16pm

5:34pm

8:40pm

11:39pm

Saturday October 15

1:24pm

2:20pm

5:53pm

Talk to you soon,

Cass

Hi Cass, I thought you might enjoy seeing a photo of Kyle. This was

right

before his surgery at the Boise river near our home. (usually his

hair

is

a little less messy:)). I got the contract and will get that filled

out

and returned. I think the next mail day is Tuesday due to Columbus

day.

And the name I wanted is Merlin. I'm still really excited about

this

little dog and his potential. I'm so ready for another dog and I

feel

really positive about all the benefits for our family and Kyle as

well!

Spring

How do I love thee?

> I love thee enough to fly to the other side of the world three times to make you part of our family.
>
> I love thee enough to support you through medical school, residency and a group change so you can realize your dreams.
>
> I love thee enough to stand by you through good behavior and bad behavior and get help when my own ability isn't enough.
>
> I love thee enough to drive you hundreds of miles each month to lessons, activities and playdates so you can experience life to the fullest.

I love thee enough to let you sleep in my room every week so you know you aren't forgotten.

I love thee enough to keep life full of fun activities after the maintaince work is done even though I'd like to collapse so you don't feel all the impact of the trials in our life.

I love thee enough to help you breathe all night with oxygen.

I love thee enough to help your bones grow straight by insisting you wear a brace all night.

I love thee enough to help you hear by insisting that you wear hearing aides all day.

I love thee enough to learn another language for you.

I love thee enough to feed you through a tube four times every day.

I love thee enough to restrict your food choices so you don't get sick

I love thee enough to flush your bowels twice a day so you don't get sick.

I love thee enough to hold you as you struggle while the anesethiologist holds a mask to your face to make you fall asleep.

I love thee enough to consent to surgeries every three to four months since you were born so that you can be healthier.

I love thee enough to administer to your needs as you heal from the pain of the surgeries you need.

I love thee enough to live in a hospital far from home for days and weeks at a time to obtain the care you need.

I love thee enough to set up a 'hospital' in a hotel far from home as you convalesce.

I love thee enough to look at your body all scarred and altered and see beauty.

I love thee enough to enjoy you and thank God for each precious day with you.

>
>
>
>
>
> Spring
>
>

How do I love thee?

I love thee enough to fly to the other side of the world three times to make you part of our family.

I love thee enough to support you through medical school, residency and a group change so you can realize your dreams.

I love thee enough to stand by you through good behavior and bad behavior and get help when my own ability isn't enough.

I love you enough to drive you hundreds of miles each month to lessons, activities and playdates so you can experience life to the fullest.

Spring

Strange hospital dreams

I think it's time to come home. Last night I dreamed Kyle and I were kidnapped and we couldn't get home! At one point I actually got up and turned off his pulse ox and told the nurse I was done with alarming monitors. The oxygen is a home routine and I'm refusing the pulse ox!

Spring

Cincinnati Day 8

It's official. Kyle gets discharged tomorrow! It will be nine days in the hospital. Then we wait around Cincinnati till Saturday, then home. Kyle is still doing well. He is a little grumpy today but who can blame him? I asked for a GI consult for his eosiniphillic allergies and CSID. Its in process and the preliminary thinking if that these diagnoses likely won't clear totally even with the Hirschsprungs repair due to the immunologic involvement. That sounds right to me. Not as wonderful as "this surgery fixing it all", but more accurate. Either way, I just want to have a realistic expectation for the future diet.

Nothing else really to report. We are both ready to get home. Kyle has enough energy to be a little bored but not sleep. Foiled my plans for a nap! Sigh. So we are back in the play room playing pool!

Spring

Cincinnati Day 7

The "dark night" has passed. It was a pretty tough yesterday and a good bit of today. But Kyle seems to have turned a corner. In the last few hours I seem to see the light at the end of the tunnel. My apologies for withdrawing from texts, emails, phone calls and blog updated. I was beyond help. Some things just have to be endured alone. That dark time is always part of a hospital stay for me. Its always pretty dreadful. With patience, prayer and time, I think it's past now and I've shifted into my new role of the mom and Kyle show. Now all you adoring readers can stop worrying ;)

Today was busy getting on top of Kyles pain and sorting out the nurse shuffle that kept happening over the last day and a half. We had a twelve hour nurse today and the nursing manager for the unit came in to apologize for the inconsistencies and strain it caused. That was nice. Kyles diet is back to as tolerated and he asked for pringles and orange juice. Throughout the day he nibbled on carrots, olives, lettuce, green beans, and broccoli. He drank a bit of "dads pop" too. His tummy still hurts and he isn't on full strength Elecare yet. We have time so I'm not rushing it.

His bowels have moved- a lot... Had to change everything from the skin out and have a bath. I wasn't to happy about that - it's what we were hoping to "fix". I did learn to use his neo-Malone (from now on I'm just going to all it a Malone). I gave him his first enema flush. It was relatively easy! We had a fast positive response and I'm really encouraged. Afterwards as of now, he is totally clean. It's been 3 hours. Dr Levitt expects that it will take a lot of tweaking over the next few months to get the enema flush "right". That doesn't sound fun to be but it another one of those things that can't be avoided. We have had poo issues and 'twas foretold we will have more poo issues. That's what happens with Hirschsprungs disease. Yuck!

Kyles IV fluids were turned off. The PIC is still in place but once he was not connected to anything he decided life was much better. I got him dressed in regular clothes and we went on an adventure. We went to the pharmacy, the gift shop and the cafeteria. He walked about 1/4 mile in all. He was tired so we had a movie and snuggle time. Then he decided he was ready for more. He got off the bed himself, walked round and decided he wanted to get on my bed. (parent chair pullout) and do puzzles. Then we did laundry, got dinner and went to the play room where we played pool! And Kyle flirted with the nurses who all thought he was adorable. After a very full day we snuggled and Kyle fell asleep. He is sleeping peacefully now and I will he too soon.

Dr Levitt did say that if he continues to do well we can fly home on Saturday. I'm trying not to get to excited but that's pretty great. An interesting unrelated tidbit is the family next door is from Russia. I might talk to them tomorrow.

That's all from here for now. For some adorable pictures of Kyle feel free to visit idahobeans.blogspot.com. (I can't post photos to this page from iPhone)
Hopefully I didn't freak too many people out with my candor. I'm just human and honest about it. Anyway here's hoping tomorrow is a great day!

Spring

Cincinnati Day 7

Playing pool in the playroom. Kyles idea. :)

Cincinnati Day 7

Looking good!

Cincinnati Day 7

On the way to the playroom at Kyles request!

Cincinnati Day 6 night

Ok now I'm irritated. The day started positively enough. Large bowel movement, good xray and the doctor said start clears! Kyle however had a different idea. He only sipped and refused most everything. Then Alan had to leave and go back to Idaho. I knew it was coming but I despaired none-the-less. I feel myself pulling away from the new reality - that I'm alone with a sick child in a strange city and I know no one except the doctors. Picking up all the responsibility for Kyle is a heavy weight. After a few mopy hours, cuddling Kyle and a cry I think I've accepted the unchangeable. I'm still irritable, but that's part of how I can walk up this mountain with such a heavy load. It was wonderful to have Alan here all this time. I really shared the burden of the hospitalization this time. It really helped. I love Alan so much. He is such a strength to me and I was so impressed by his "doctor mode". He handled things professionally. It was neat to watch. I have taken pride in my abilities to do the same and I'm doing that now. It was just nice to share that responsibility. Kyle also took significant amounts of comfort from his Dad. Now it's the Mom and Kyle show once again.

The rest of the day hasn't been much better. Our nurse changed four times. That'd be ok if it was the first shift it's happened on, but it's the third! We have had 6 different nurses in 24 hours! In all the shuffle he missed a few doses of pain meds and was hurting alot! Not cool.

Better yet Kyle developed a fever. The highest we measured so far was 101.4. Darn it. So cultures were drawn and we got a chest x ray. Don't know what it's from or the results. Hopefully it's something simple.

Kyle and I snuggled a bunch today. Have to say I needed it as much as he did. Today has been a really hard day. Probably the hardest so far. I'm going to sleep. I hope tomorrow's different.

Cincinnati day 6

Alan had to leave about 1:00pm. I felt the familiar cloud of anxiety settling over me. Sigh. I hope it's not to taxing to be on a lone vigil now. I hope no complications come up. But there isn't much to can do to stop them. Onward

Spring

Cincinnati Day 6

Well the weekend is over. The hospital is busy busy again. Long waits for the elevator, no parking in the huge garage extra security guards etc. An interesting trivia bit about concinnati children's hospital is that each elevator bank allows access to specific floors. In the entrance to the elevator bank sit a security guard that you have to check in with before you can access the elevator. Parents have a wrist band that allows access. It makes me feel safer and at the same time raises concern that there is a need for this level of security.

It's a big day for Kyle too. He had a bowel movement today! The xray looked beautiful! So Dr Leavitt said he can start drinking! If this goes well tomorrow he can start eating. Then possibly discharge Thursday, hang around Friday to make sure he is still ok then home!

I'm trying not to get my hopes up, but it looks positive. The only possible problem is that Kyles tummy is distended and he still has green g tube drainage. We will be watching that closely.

He got his first drink of water today and then said all done. We are ordering popcicles and diet sprite for him. Go buddy!

Radison Cincinnati.

The hotel is so big my ears pop in the elevator by the time I reach my room on the 15th floor!

Spring

Hello

Hi Nancy, this kind note is about the nicest thing I've read all day. Thank you for taking time to send me a note. It's great to hear about the workings of the ward. Sounds nice. I would have liked to be there for the Howes baby blessing. They are a really nice family. It is interesting to hear of your experiences with your daughter. It's such a unique experience to live through something like this. It seems people can't Appreciate the magnitude of this type of thing unless they have experienced it.  This is the 5th surgery  away from home for Kyle and over 30 hospital admits away from home for us.   It's far to familiar now. This time we seem to have fine tuned a few things and it's not too bad yet. Alan and I have taken shifts at the hospital so I haven't burned out. But Alan leaves today and I'm going to at the hospital day and night. No idea how much  longer we have to stay. Sigh. Anyway. I loved the email. Thank you!  Talk soon. 

Spring 

On Oct 9, 2011, at 11:10 PM, Nancy Christensen <nnancy411@hotmail.com> wrote:

Hi Spring.

Just read about Kyle's surgery.  So glad things seem to be going well. Your posts brought back so many memories for me.   Gary and I went through a similar experience with one of our children.  We know about living in the hospital, the noise, the worry, the stress, the feeling of helplessness.  We also know about the kindness of family and friends and nurses and volunteers.   Your lives become totally focused on your child, his pain, and the many details of hospital life.  You almost forget there is a world outside of the hospital.

We spent three weeks at Boston Children's Hospital with Elizabeth the first time, and about two weeks a few years later.  Her first surgery was ten hours and included (among many other things) the doctor taking a piece of her colon out.  I remember listening for those bowel sounds.  As I recall it was a full 7 days before she could even have a sip of water.  We learned she was allergic to latex and that morphine gave her scary hallucinations.  We also learned that she was an amazing, sunny, resilient child.  And as we sacrificed for her and watched her suffering and felt such love for her,  we caught a tiny glimpse of how much our Heavenly Father loves each of us.

I hope all continues to go well with Kyle's recovery. 

We did miss you at choir practice.  It was pretty sparse.  I think maybe Gary and Brother Wardle need to learn the art of phone invitations. 
But ready or not, we will sing next week.  We also had stake choir practice tonight.  That went pretty well although Lucy would still like more people there next week.  I like all three of our conductors.

Good fast and testimony meeting today.  Lots of kids as per usual.  Also a mother and son, ( Bainbridge?) who have been inactive for many years came and both bore their testimonies.  So did Shanna Ahlquist, Brother Cromwell, and Matt Howe.  The Howes blessed their baby boy.  It looked like there were four generations in the circle.  Very sweet.  The Hilton's had a baptism over the weekend.   President Alder was there although there was no official stake business.  Lots of people gone because of the school vacation days.   Cynthia taught the Relief Society lesson and did a great job as usual.  Your mother-in-law was introduced.

I think that is all the news of the day.

Feel free to give my name and number to your in-laws and parents.  I am close and could always run kids somewhere if needed.
Thoughts and prayers with you,

Love,
Nancy Christensen

Cincinnati Day 5

Kyles out of bed and has walked a ling way! He is enjoying his new race track. What a tough kid! We are so proud of you!

It's a sleepy slow day. Kyles been up and walking then slept a long time. After he woke, Kyle walked around a bit but he was really hurting. Took him to the playroom but he was hurting too much to enjoy it. Came back and got diladid and toredol. Bathed him then put on a movie. He is settling down nicely. He had a smear in his diaper and the nurse heard some bowel sounds. He's playing now. Still waiting for bowel function to return. Wishing we could speed it up. I repacked so Alan can take some stuff home tomorrow. Planning another movie tonight. Just a quiet Sunday.

Introducing Merlin

Merlin is a labradoodle that will be joining us next week. The goal is that he will learn to be a service dog for Kyle. We are going to be training him with the guidance of a local trainer. He should be about 50 Pounds when all grown. We are really excited to get him!

Kyles first walk Cincinnati day 4

Kyle on a ride.

Dad and Kyle day 4

Day 4

Kyle day 4

Cincinnati day 4

Cincinnati Day 4

Kyle had a good day today. He walked three times. The first time he hated it and only took a few steps. The second and third times he whined but walked about 20 feet. We went for two wheel chair rides. He enjoyed those.

He is moving around more. He is still not using his right arm because it has the PIC line. He's signing one handed which is pretty cute. He still is clinging to his cars blanket. He got a prize for walking which was a new Mac truck with tiny squigie car characters from the movie. He loved it and held it all the rest of the day. He also played the iPad for hours. He's really amazing to watch manipulate the different apps.

He is sleeping peacefully now - hopefully all night. We hope tomorrow he might be able to start drinking a little.

I'm doing great. Alans been sleeping at the hospital and I've been going back to the hotel. I feels little selfish because I'm not keeping a day and night vigil at the bedside, but at the same time it feels great! I only have two more nights of this then Alan has to go home. But I think I'll have enough reserves to get through once he leaves. Kyle is loving having his Dad here. Its quite positive so far.

All in all it's been a nice quiet day. I talked a lot with the kids, grandparents and my sisters. I've actually enjoyed it.

Spring

Dad And Kyle day 3

Mom and Kyle day 3

Waiting to heal

Healing is hard work! Bob the Builder on the iPad helps!

Julie and Kyle

Our favorite nurse!

Cincinnati day 3

I arrived at noon and Kyle was pretty calm. Alan decided to go to the hotel to sleep and workout. As the afternoon has gone on Kyle has gotten fussy and it seemed that he got behind on pain control. I think we are finally back on top of it. He is holding very still and won't move. His nose and face are getting itchy because of the morphine. His mouth is very dry and he is asking for a drink which he can't have yet. He has cat-napped but not really slept. It's pretty noisy around here. People in the hall, alarms dinging, IV pumps alarming, and the stream of people - RD, RN, housekeeping, doctors, child life etc etc. (I'm looking forward to leaving tonight. The hospital zaps nerves fast.). Kyle asked me to "go". I think he wants to leave too. I don't blame him!

Medically, he has done well getting rid of the extra fluid from surgery. His breathing, heart rate and oxygen sats are stable. So the IV in his left hand and left foot are gone. He just has his PIC line now.

The nurse put him on my lap in the chair today. It hurt him to move but I think he liked being held. He wrapped my arms around him tightly and kept putting them back if I moved. What a sweetie.

Our nurse Julie is really great. She is fun to work with and phrases things really well. She is pretty young but found her passion in nursing on the colorectal unit. She is off for the weekend and we will miss her!

Saying good bye before the surgery

Pain relief in the recovery room

Kyle in the recovery room in pain

New incision and Malone

Kyle in the recovery room

Cincinnati day 2

Kyle is out if surgery. He looks better than I expected. We are still waiting to see if he will go to the floor or the ICU. They are working to get his pain under control. The surgeons said that his surgery went well. The cuff was removed and was such a classic appearing problem cuff that they want to use a photo of it in a paper they are writing. Not exactly a celebrity but still...
The diseased portion was only about 6 cm long and is gone now. The length has no significance in recovery time. It's just an interesting detail I wanted to know. Between both operations his whole sigmoid colon is gone and the remaining colon looked good. Dr Leavitt expects that Kyles bowel will take about 4-7 days to start moving. He can't eat or drink for this time. He is receiving 10% dextrose via his PIC line. He won't feel hungry. Once it starts he expects that it will be hypermotile for 3-6 months. Meaning 10 plus bowel movements a day. Gradually the bowel will readjust as it "realizes" that the stricture is gone and it will slow down. The ultimate goal is to have an enema once a day then be clean for the next 24 hours.

The neo-Malone is done. The catheter is in place and will remain in place for the next four weeks. It is right through his belly button. The one way "valve" is a peice of the colon wrapped around the newly made "neo appendix". It shouldn't leak... I truly hope this is true. There is a risk of developing a stricture and needing a surgery to open it up in the future. But we just have to take that as it comes. We will start using the Malone for flushes this week. No more golightly! Although the flushes (enemas throughout the Malone) will put us on the potty everyday for an hour. This part of "cured/healed" isn't very pleasant but he won't be sick all the time now. The new testament "healings" sound better. I'm putting in an order for continence next.

As I'm writing this we got clearance to go to the floor instead of the ICU. That's really good news. He has a button to push to deliver pain meds. It's called a PCA. The goal is to keep him comfortable enough to sleep most of the time over the next few days.

That's where we are at. I'm feeling fairly optimistic. Alan volunteered to stay with him overnight. I think I'll let him. I slept fair last night and for a few hours today, but I've been pretty anxious over the last several weeks anticipating this. I think I might crash tonight because of relief. Alan has been super through this. He knows I get really particular about things being tidy when I'm stressed. He even folded the laundry and put it away. It's really good to have him here!

That's what I know for now. More later.

Spring

Note to self

Things to bring to the hospital for extended stays...

Your own pillow and blanket. The comfort these things provide is worth the room they take up.

Bring your own shampoo and conditioner and bath soap and lotion.

Bring a generous supply of non perishable food and your own drink container.

Limit your time at the hospital gift shop or leave your debit card in your purse!

Bring ear plugs and sleeping pills and an egg crate mattress for the pull out chair.

Bring your own medicine, music, projects, books, movies, scissors, tape, pens and paper and any other creature comforts you might want.

Prepare a strong support system at home. Request lots of messages and calls.

Finally always take a deep breath and count to 5 before answering any question the hospital staff ask you.

Spring

Signs of maturity

A few cute new things Kyle did that was shockingly mature yesterday were...

He got versed before his PIC placement. It always makes him sleepy, and it did yesterday too. But what surprised us was that he got down from Alans lap walked over to the hospital bed and climbed in. It was as if he decided he wanted a nap and he just "took care if it"!

The other uncharacteristic thing he did was at blood pressure time. I signed to him that it was time for an " arm hug" and he held out his arm. He sat still and didn't fuss at all!

What a sweetie!

Spring

Cincinnati day 2

Kyle went in to the OR about 45 mins ago. We get a different opinion from every doctor that we talk to about the length of the surgery and if Kyle will need to go to the ICU or not. So we are getting breakfast then I'm taking a nap. I get really grouchy when I don't get enough sleep. Though its only the first night in the hospital I am already feeling really irritated at the alarms that kept beeping all night! Sigh. At least I got a shower.

Spring

Day 1 concinnati

A really poopy day here. Just what was supposed to happen. Kyle suprised me with his patience and courage. He is a great kid!  Finally asleep, I

 Close behind. Nite nite. 

Spring 

Begin forwarded message:

From: Spring Bean <sabean@comcast.net>
Date: October 5, 2011 11:15:28 PM EDT
To: Virginia Bowden <virginia_bowden@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: HI

Thanks. Long day. Fast yet slow. Seems neverending. Trying to sleep now on my comfy chair. :(. The giant nemo balloon I got Kyle floating above his bed is a nice contrast to the drab room. Hard to believe this nightmare is happening again. Thanks for your help!  Love you both. 

Spring 

On Oct 5, 2011, at 8:52 PM, Virginia Bowden <virginia_bowden@yahoo.com> wrote:

Hi, How has your day been?  I have thought about you all day.  I hope Kyle is doing well and not too uncomfortable.  I hope you are doing ok.  Things are good here.  Kids are happy, but don't like the rain.  We are praying for all of you and love you so much.  Hope you have a good night!

Love, Mom

Backpacking

I used to backpack in the mountains. Now I pack in and out of hospitals. Last night at the hotel. Tonight at the hospital. Tomorrow at the hotel till Kyles out of the ICU then back to the hospital. Wee-haw!

Spring

Bowel resection 2011 day 1

Kyle, Alan and I are on the plane to Cincinnati Ohio now. The hospital called this morning to tell me that Kyle was going to get a PICC line in the morning. I should have seen it coming. I knew he would need TPN following the resection but it caught me off guard. All my protective instincts went on high alert.

Taking your child voluntarily somewhere like a hospital when they are not in distress is counterintuitive. Especially when you know the only way to achieve better health is by experiencing a lot of pain first.

So tomorrow morning at 7:30 am EST we will be reporting to the hospital for the PICC placement then to the floor for the bowel prep.

Sigh, the first of many unpleasantries in store for us in the next few weeks.

Spring