HI,
My daughter had surgery at 9.5 months old for her pacemaker, while she was younger than your sweet girl, she LOVES books, so we had a tote bag full of her favorite books to pass the time. :) Since you little one is a little older and able to understand more, I suggest getting to know the Child Life Specialists at your hospital. They are AMAZING!!! Our son (and daughter) both have Complete Heart block, however our son has Cysts along his spine we have to have checked out via MRI-this last go around we had Child Life come in and it was phenomenal! Our experience when he was 4 was awful, so we have now become to rely on Child Life to calm his nerves and make the procedure more fun and based on his likes and dislikes! I was in awe of the complete change in our experience and cannot say enough good things about that department! They can also help with your older boys as well. Rely on them and the department, they are GREAT! I stayed with our daughter round the clock and my husband would force me to go home and shower, i felt so guilty, but when i came back i truly thanked him for making me go home and feel "normal" again with a shower and quick nap! Don't forget you're a mom and a woman, so take care of yourself too! It's hard leaving them, but you will return rejuvenated and refreshed ready to tend to her needs clear headed.
We packed for our daughter side snap onesies (i know yours is older, so maybe snap shirts Long sleeved), SOCKS, her favorite blanket, a stuffed lion (From MLH-which she named dory!) ha. i downloaded a rain app, but i wish i would've taken her sound machine, her sippy cup, we brought her brand of diapers-she has ultra sensitive skin and i wasn't about to risk a rash on top of healing, books, for myself i brought a thick blanket, pillow, ear buds, magazines, a book, journal, zip up sweatshirt, and a small bag of toiletries-she was moved to a private room with a shower attached, so the last day i didn't have to leave her side for more than the time it took to shower-so thankful!
We will be praying for you all! And keep us updated when you have a chance! Sending hugs and well wishes!
-Lydia
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Lydia Howard
Clovis, CA
Co-Leader MLH Fresno; Heart mom to 2
(559) 917-2843
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-02-2018 01:08
From: Jessica Harvey
Subject: Upcoming Surgery
Hello everyone! My daughter is scheduled to finally have the surgery she has been needed. Of course I am terrified and do not know exactly what to expect and I'm not too sure I want to know.
I would like some advice on what all to take to the hospital for my husband, my self, our boys and our daughter she is 20 months old but still just a baby. Are there certain things we need to do or shouldn't do while we are at the hospital. The hospital is about 8 or 9 ours from where we live so we won't be able to run and get anything or do anything during this time. Advice and suggestions are very much appreciated.
Thank you,
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Jessica Harvey
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