After surgery update...

I would like to update everyone on how Margaret's surgery went yesterday. I was down there all day and got to see her. Yeah!

First, they did not have to shave her head. There appears to be some areas that will probably have hair loss, but for the most part, it is all there. The incision went from her right temple up and accross the top of her head and then down her left temple past her left ear(between her ear and cheek bone). There were staples running the whole length. We told her she got a face lift at the same time! She thought that was funny.

They have a tube running straight into her cerebral cortex to drain spinal fluid. Once they clamped the artery, the swelling started going down almost immediately. The drain is to allow the fluid retained from swelling to drain out effectively. They were seeing more drainage than they would really like, but right now that is ok. She is very tired. She comes in and out of sleepiness. When she wakes up, she immediately starts telling everyone all the things she is supposed to be doing and who to call to cover them! That amazing woman never stops. She is pretty ticked to be stuck in bed. She keeps asking to go for a ride in the wheelchair. She flat out hates her bed. Yesterday they wouldn't give her any water and she kept trying to get anyone who would come in to sneak her some! Man I love her! It'sa good thing I wasn't there. I would have given it to her.

Her parents and sister are coming into town tomorrow and will beavailable to be with the kids at home. That will be great as they have all been at seperate houses. Our church has supplied groceries for them and will for the next while. This should help while family is in town. Once the extended family leaves, our plan is to then pick up the slack with meals and childcare for as long as necessary. Right now, the major expenses that are being incurred are from gas, parking ($4 every day or more if you leave and come back), and eating out down at the hospital (Wendy's and McDonalds are right there). If anyone would like to donate gift cards for any of the above, it would not be turned away. Please feel free to contact me privately if you wish to do so.

From what I understand, Thanksgiving is covered. Margaret's oldest daughter is also planning her wedding, which is supposed to be in 6 weeks. At this point it is still a go on schedule and we are all hoping for the best. She has said she has everything under control for that. We just don't know about Christmas yet. I want to thank you all again for your emails, calls, and support. It was so nice to get to see her and I personally have my spirits lifted. Thank you, thank you, thank you.