Blood Donation Day

This morning Bleu and I went to St Joseph's Hospital in Orange to donate a unit of blood each for Fisher's operation. It took about 10 minutes for each of us. We then went to another building to have Fisher's blood drawn for them to test his blood type. If we match the blood lasts 35 days, enough for the operation. If one of us does not match, then the other can donate more at a later date.

Over the weekend I got so many wonderful emails in response to the email I just sent out. I still have to catch up with more friends and family and clients to update them. I was really overwhelmed with the love and prayers Fisher is receiving. Thank you Thank you Thank you!!!

Bleu's cousin, Cheryl, from San Diego, had some great information for us which I have posted below! She works with babies who have had this surgery....this was really helpful! I will surely keep in touch with her, along with others who have given me the contact information of friends and siblings with kids who have had this operation.

"I just wanted to let you know that I took care of many kids postop after craniosynostosis repair. When the surgery is over and he comes back to the room, because the head is highly vascular he will look worse than he feels. His eyes will probably be discolored and swollen shut and he'll look as though he went a few rounds in the ring. The skin may be tight and shiney from the swelling, but this will go away after a few days. Believe it or not because kids are so resilent, Fisher will be his old self in no time. After awhile, you won't even be able to see his scars. Babies heal very fast and very well.

"I know it's scary for parents, especially because they don't want anyone messing with their baby's head, but believe me he will be fine in no time.You'll just have to keep his head elevated to decrease the swelling and prevent him from messing with the sutures. So, it's really important that you stay calm, especially in front of Fisher, even if he can't see you he'll be able to sense it if you're upset. He's a lucky little guy, this surgery has been so perfected over the years, he'll be his handsome little self in no time! Anyway, just wanted to let you know, that even though the general public has not had much experience with this condition, pediatric nurses see it quite often."

That is great to know! I know Fisher will be in amazing hands!!!


Our friend, Kelly wrote us...

"...rest easy knowing that God does have a special plan and purpose – and He choose YOU to be Fisher’s parents … knowing that Fisher would have this condition, and knowing the strength and limitations that the two of you have. You are the perfect parents for that dear little boy – and every time you think, “I can’t do this,” you have to remember that yes, yes you can!!!

"Wow, I’m tearing up as I imagine your love for this precious boy pulling at your heart. Please know that the three of you – and the entire Cotton family will be in my thoughts and prayers constantly. I DO have great faith in today’s medicine. I’m certain that he will pull through and every Christmas for the rest of your lives, you’ll always remember the miracle that God has provided.

Great, Big, Giant Hugs,
Kelly"


I wish I could post all the notes to Fisher from all of you!!!! I am printing them all out and putting them in a special album for us to read during the rough times!!!...Thanks again!