Home with our Mei Li

Mei Li. . . 5 days after surgery on her spinal cord

We have been home from the hospital for 2 days, and we are 5 days out from Mei Li's surgery on her spinal cord. We went into this week having no idea what to expect. All of the "what ifs" with the risks of surgery. . . and even if all went well with the surgery, what to expect "pain-wise" in the days following. I can tell you that in true "Mei Li style", she has handled the last 5 days with smiles, little to no complaint, silliness, sauciness, and a sense of humor. I have to ask her if she is hurting, and then I give her Ibuprofen and Tylenol. She had an allergic reaction to the plastic and adhesive placed on her back during the surgery, and we have had to treat the rash on her back. But, it is truly amazing the grace and positive spirit this little girl has maintained throughout the entire experience. She is an inspiration to us all. . . and she continues to challenge me every day to look at the world and my own circumstances with a more thankful and joyful heart. Amazing what we can learn from a little child!

I can't say enough about the phenomenal surgical team that took care of Mei Li. Dr. Blount is nothing short of amazing! Such a wonderful man in addition to a brilliant surgeon. And, his nurse, the anesthesiologist and nurse anesthetist. . . the Lord prepared the perfect team to love and care for our little girl! And, His presence was so obvious in that hospital through each and every person sent our way. Even beyond the nurses and doctors. . . the friends and even complete strangers who made their way to our room to touch the lives of our family and both of our girls. . . they shone such a light! It was a humbling and overwhelming experience. We were completely in a position of having "no" control. . . being dependent on the excellence and precision of the surgeon and nurses, being dependent on the love and support of friends and family, and wholly dependent on the mercy and grace of our Heavenly Father. And, to experience the floodgates open and pour out blessing on us in every one of these areas. . . it is indescribable!

Right now, our days are spent at the house keeping Mei Li confined to the couch or the bed on her back or side. She does have permission to walk to the restroom, but then straight back to lying down. We have 5 more days of lying flat. Then, we will see what Dr. Blount tells us. Mei Li is such an active and spirited little girl; but, amazingly, she is doing exactly what Dr. Blount has asked of her. It seems she understands that we are trying to help her. And, she is responding with a willingness that surprises us all. And, she is doing it with such an incredibly positive attitude.

We are truly blessed, and we are incredibly thankful!!! Thank you to every person who has followed along and offered up prayers and good wishes for our little girl!! You have made such a difference to our family and to the life of one little girl. . . named Mei Li. :)