Both boys have really been enjoying the time at the pools this summer with Nana and Grandpa. They are true water lovers. It is in their blood, just like their Papa. Cannon has been swimming so well and Colton is really beginning to get brave. We are trying to let Cannon get as much swimming in before the BIG day arrives, since the remainder of his summer will be in recovery mode.
We talked with Cannon about the surgery last week and he took the news fairly well. I think we prepped him pretty good for the heart cath with the idea that there was a chance the dr's could fix his heart so he would be able to play baseball. Being able to roll that into the surgery conversation made things a little easier. He has been asking questions which we expected from him and thankfully not many that we haven't been able to answer for him. It is also nice letting him lead us with how much we say by the questions he asks. He didn't like the idea of having to drink the "yucky sleepy medicine" or the idea that we would have to leave him with the nurses again. Unfortunately, we only wanted to allow him a couple of weeks for it to gel in his little brain but we have ended up with three. The day after we told him Texas Children's called to reschedule the date due to the surgeon being ill. The original date was scheduled for June 12th which has now been moved to June 20th. We will arrive at TCH on the 19th at 8AM for the pre op day and then return on the 20th at 6 AM for the actual surgery to begin.
As for the blood donations I mentioned in the last post, we have had a hard time determining Cannon's blood type. I still do not have this information to share. However, I am sure you can still direct donate in his name at the Gulf Coast Blood Bank and if it is his type they will use it. If not, I am certain there are other children or even adults that you are compatible with that could use the gift. The date of donation will change to June 16th. The donation must be taken 3 days prior to surgery, no sooner and no later for it to be used for Cannon's transfusion.
We still find ourselves with great peace as we come closer to the actual day. My prayer for the whole family is that we will glorify God through all. That this trial will bring us closer to God as well as those who witness the hand of God in Cannon's life. We have already seen this taking place, as we experienced a "Prayer Party" for Cannon at church. Seeing so many believers come together to pray for Cannon was such a heartwarming event. It really touched our hearts and we are so thankful to be part of such a loving, caring, and compassionate body of Christ. It is so sweet to be a part of such a loving FAMILY.
Hi Tori! Love your blog!! thank you for keeping us all up to date!
ReplyDeleteLove, Nana
PS: Hopefully I can post successfully this time. =)
Dear Marc and Tori,
ReplyDeleteIt's been a joy taking care of Cannon and Colton during the day this week! The mornings are spent at McDonalds playing on the play equirpment. They both have loved spending time at the pool each day. Cannon should win an award for the most tanned and handsome little boy at Texas Childrens. Tori made a great observation that Cannon may love how the water supports his weight and makes the task of playing more enjoyable. Gupa and I have treasured these days with our boys. It will be a joy to see Cannon full of energy and with the surgery behind him. He talks about the surgery now and then as we drive around. We talk about all the different people in our family who have had surgery and how much better they feel now.
One memory that stands at the fore front happened yesterday morning. Cannon was getting bored at McDonalds waiting for the pool to open. I prayed with him asking God to send a friend and to make the time go quickly. After the brief prayer and Amen, Cannon mentioned that he wasn't so sure that would work. Within minutes another boy who was 6 years old showed up to play. That was cool! But a few minutes later his best friend from school - Landon - showed up. I shared with Landon's Grandma that we has just prayed and God sent Landon. She shared that she planned to go through the drive thru but changed her mind and deciided to let Landon play for a brief period. Plus she needed to come in to get a free refill. =)
Cannon and I talked about his ability to ask God for what he needs in just the same way. My prayer is that he will remember that he can ask God for help anytime during his stay in the hospital and after. Our sweet God would love to show Himself strong to one of his precious lambs!
Love to all, Nana