Preparing for Surgery Again

My entire focus has shifted to preparing for Thursday. I recently contacted another mom going through the same thing as me. Her son had his second surgery three weeks ago and he is six months old. Through a series of several emails over the past two days, she has shared some new insight and advice I hadn't thought of prior to now.

She was unable to nurse for the first four days after surgery. I really, really hope that doesn't happen this time. That would be so difficult on both of us. Her hospital was a lot less nursing friendly when compared to most, so I can't imagine we will have to wait that long.

She also brought crib toys, like the fish tank hanging on the inside of Ben's crib, to make the environment feel a little more like home and so that he can at least hear familiar sounds when his eyes swell closed.

Our trunk will be packed with our equipment from home - including the Bumbo chair. She propped her son in his to help the swelling move out of his face when he was really swollen. We will also be bringing the Boppy pillow again, to prop his head on while he is sleeping.

The hospital has already recommended we bring a few other toys from home. He has a glowing stuffed owl (reminiscent of a glow worm from when I was a kid), and a blanket that he usually sleeps with.

Josh will also be returning home regularly, so I'm sure he can bring the rest of Ben's truckload of equipment as needed. This kind of goes against my less is more policy of packing, but I think all of this will make it easier once we're there. And if it's in the way, I can always send it home with someone else.

*Today's pictures are of Ben and his play kitchen. Our entire house is slowly becoming one giant play room.