Yesterday's Procedure

Oh my. We got to CHOP extremely early (after leaving at 5 am) which was a good thing because we got in to the sedation unit right away vs. last year we waited HOURS. So everything else went quickly too and Dr. D. saw us around 9:00 am for a final consult and he marked the areas and put the EMLA numbing cream on the injection sites. He also watched Jack walk (with hands held) and said he compensates and is able to keep his heals down by doing some crazy thing with his foot. I’ll have to try to explain it later. So then the sedation nurse came in and took our info and they got started with the IV.

Dr. D came back with a student (he was there just to OBSERVE) and the nurse gave Jack the sedation meds versed and fentenal. Jack cried a lot and seemed very angry — but he didn’t flinch one bit when Dr. D. started on his legs. The med student had to leave because he felt faint. Dr. D got both legs done in about 8-10 minutes and Jack suddenly STOPPED BREATHING! He had a horrible apnea episode and his sats dropped into the low 50’s — my heart stopped. He was losing color and turning gray. He was also not swallowing his saliva and not breathing. They did the blow by oxygen and bagged him, suctioned him and he took a breath. Then he was shallow breathing so his sats were up and down. Finally after they kept the oxygen on for a while he stayed up where Dr. D. could finish the injections on Jack’s right arm/hand. Dr. D seemed very upset — and worried through all of this. The meds wear off quick, so Jack “came too” and cried hysterically. The meds didn’t seem to agree with him at all this time with lots of agitation and the breathing difficulties.

We sat for a long time just holding Jack while he cried and he got better as the hour went on. They gave him some IV fluids and he ate a few crackers. When they told us we could go, Jack was crying but totally fine. We went straight to the car and I called the seating clinic and explained we’ll have to reschedule our appointment to pick uo the wheelchair. They were very understanding. Jack did great on the car ride home...just peacefully watched the cars and it only took us an HOUR to get home!!! No traffic at all. I think Jason was heavy on the gas a little too. Jason got us subs and french fries and Jack at like a piggy when we got home. He had a banana (of course), 2 packs peanut butter crackers, french fries and lots to drink. He napped in the afternoon and watched TV with us all evening. When bedtime came I put Jack in bed with me. There was no way I was going to leave him. He slept very well...we all did. This morning he's totally himself and happily eating breakfast.

I cannot believe how scary this was. I had that horrible helpless feeling...JUST LIKE THE NICU. Poor Jack. I am so glad that the next month or so is totally appointment free. I want Jack to just be a kid. It's amazing how much he takes in stride. I am counting my blessings today. I really am.