Surgery #2 and Post-Op Recovery

As many of you know, Henry had his second surgery a little over two weeks ago to repair his palate. We are so grateful to say that the surgery was a success and he is recovering fully!  We went back to Stanford on Monday for multiple post-op appointments. 

We first met with the Dr. Khosla who performed the palate surgery. He was very happy with how the stitches have dissolved and the way the roof Henry's mouth has come together. He gave us the go ahead to allow Henry to eat whatever he wants, use spoons, straws, etc. and best of all, he doesn't have to wear the arm bands anymore! We thought he would be thrilled to have his thumb back but it looks like 2 weeks without it may have broke him of the habit - he hasn't tried to suck his thumb once yet. We actually even tried to remind him of it on the car ride home and he wouldn't take it!

We then met with specialists from the ENT and Audiology departments.  During the surgery, an ENT surgeon also inserted ear tubes so they just wanted to check and make sure they were still in place.  Luckily, everything looked great. They were right where they need to be and "clean and clear."

Last we met the audiology doctor to conduct a few hearing tests. First they had him listen to music through ear plugs while a monitor gauged his response. Then we went into a sound proof hearing test room where sounds would come from different speakers spread around and the doctor would monitor his reactions through a looking glass. All tests came back positive, so again we are so very happy and thankful for everything going smoothly!  

Below are some pictures of the surgery, recovery and the post op visits!

The night before his surgery, receiving another special blessing from Father Jones in our hotel.

Up bright and early to check in on surgery morning.

Waiting for surgery to begin.

Henry being Henry before surgery.

Right after Post Op.

                                         

                                                     Starting to wake up.

Morning after a long night in our hospital room.

Trying to sleep and get comfortable with so many cords and monitors!

Welcome home sign and balloons from Noni!

Henry's hospital "crib."

Post op hearing tests - in the sound proof room.

Post op hearing tests - listening to music.

All in all the second surgery has been a HUGE success. His palate is repaired and strong, his hearing is good, and his eating is completely back to normal. Due to the skill and love of the people down at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Henry is just your normal 1 year old trying to do everything his big brother William is doing. Henry should now have several years between this and his next surgery to repair his gum line. A very blessed break just to be a happy, happy boy.

Life is beautiful.

Thank you all so so so much for your prayers, thoughts, well-wishes and LOVE. We have felt it!