anyone hear from theresa [Archive] - National Scoliosis Foundation Forums

nikyergen

04-03-2005, 07:54 PM

Theresa,
I agree with Susanna. Keep that pain management team coming. If Crystal was hurting more than I thought she should I got the pain management team and asked them to make her comfortable. And, if a medication is making her sick, ask them to please do something about that too. I had one nurse that I kind of became enemies with because I would insist that she give Crystal something to keep her from getting sick. We only had her once. The rest of the nurses were very good at keeping the pain and nasuea (SP) under control. It will make a difference on how quickly Nikki gets back on her feet. If she isn't feeling good, she won't want to walk, eat, etc. Crystal didn't really eat until her last night. We finally asked her what she wanted to eat. She said pizza, so we sent out for pizza that night and had a going home party.

Love and prayers to all of you.

'til later,
Nikki

susannajon

04-03-2005, 08:14 PM

Hi Nikki,

How's Crystal doing? Is she still pretty much pain free? My little one has been having a pretty rough road lately. Seems like two steps forward, one step back. We've been on a bit of a plateau for the past week. I've been trying to scale back the pain meds with limited success. I do have her down from 10 mg every 3 hours (oxycontin) to 5 mg every 4 hrs. but she is really uncomfortable toward the end of the 4 hours, and she's still not making it through the night and is waking up needing meds.

I haven't had any luck getting her to do school work because she's having a tough time focusing. We are about three 1/2 weeks post op, and I'm hoping we are close to turning the corner...

Susanna

jc3

04-03-2005, 08:28 PM

susanna
I wouldn't worry yet about her still being on the pain meds. I remember i tried to wean nicole off them too early at first. I thought she was doing so good and i tried to give her a tylenol instead and it didn't work, so back on the meds she went. Grace is still only 3 1/2 weeks post. Some kids do go off them really early, but some don't. Nicole was definitely still on them by 3 1/2 weeks. I kept a little journal for a while and i just checked and she was still having 3 pills a day at 5 weeks, then after a while she gave up the pill in the late afternoon and the next to go was the morning one and the last to go was the night one. She was 9 weeks when she went back to school and didn't take any pain meds going to school.
She'll get there.
Jennifer

susannajon

04-03-2005, 08:53 PM

Thanks Jennifer!

It's good to hear that you guys were pretty much in the same place. I'm just trying to imagine my daughter going back to school in a week, and I just can't see it.

Lura

04-03-2005, 10:44 PM

Theresa,

Hi there! I thought about you and Nicole on Wednesday and found myself wishing we were in the same hospital so we could comfort one another. I don't know about your experience, but ours was far better than I ever could have hoped for. I can't believe I am home on my computer right now, last week at this time, I was preparing for Monday's surgery.

I am still thinking of you and praying Nicole is feeling better every day as Alex has.

All my best!

Lura

nicoles mom

04-03-2005, 10:53 PM

Well I Feel So Good That This Whole Surgery Is Over And Nicole Is Doing Better Hour By Hour. I Have Made The Hospital My Home Nicole Wants Me By Her Side. The Chair Isn't That Bad I Have Been Up Most Of The Time With Her. I'm Tried And Can't Wait To Get Home. We Are The Only Kid On The Floor And Have Are Own Room. The Nurses Are Great Richard Says Hi Susanna. We Had Him The Second Day. Kim Ihas Been With Nicole 3 Days I Love Her . Not To Happy With The Night Time Staff. Fri Night They Wanted To Send Her Back Downstairs. I Keep Calling For Help She Was Screaming In Pain. They Did Get It Under Control And I Have Been Very On Top Of Them. These Kids Should Have A Nurse With Them The First And Second Day To Help Them. Shes Sleeping Now Thank God I'm Wiped Out .he Fused Her From T4 L1 Post Fusion. She Walked Three Times So Far And The Gas Is Coming All She Ate Is Ice Cream And Ice Chips Today Was Her 1st Day Eating. I'm Going To Try And Sleep.i Will Try To Write Again.

Thanks For All Your Prayers And Love
Without All Of You I Would Of Never Gotton Throught
Theresa
Xoxoxo :d

nikyergen

04-03-2005, 11:04 PM

Theresa,
Stay on top of the nurses with Nicole's pain management. It takes forever, or so it seems, if those pain meds aren't kept come to get it under control again. We only had one nurse that we had a problem with that. I just got assertive with her and kind of told her which way the bear was going to go. The rest of them were great and very prompt with pain meds.

I sure wish you would of had some other parents around you. That seems to really help, and the staff that are used to dealing with children and their pain/fears.

We did have one nurse we called the Seargent. She told Crystal that she was going to walk whether she wanted to or not. You should of seen that kid get around the ward. I think she almost ran, to just get the Seargent off her back. We only had her once, but I really think it got Crystal really working hard at getting well enough to go home.

I am sure you are looking forward to going home. Being home without the nurses is a scary thought, but not that bad. It was kind of a relief to not have someone come in the room every two hours and wake my sleeping child.

Love and prayers to all of you.

'til later,
Nikki

jc3

04-04-2005, 08:00 AM

hi theresa
glad to hear nikki is coming along. We also had richard as our nurse. He was great, we loved him. When we were there, there were no other kids on the floor so they gave us a private room, which was so great and the view was awesome. The sleep chair wasn't as bad as i thought it would be. I think i was so tired sometimes it didn't matter what i slept in. I dreaded when p/t would come and make her walk. She would scream! She didn't want to do it and really gave them a hard time. I would have to leave the room until they got her up, because when i was there she would scream louder. The whole floor must have heard her.
Jennifer

susannajon

04-04-2005, 08:14 AM

Hi Theresa,

There were a bunch of kids in the unit when I was there, I guess because it was Spring Break, and people schedule procedures around that time.

We had this one night nurse "Nettie" who we had a major problem with. I talked to some to other moms and we had all had run-ins with her, so we ended up filing a formal grievance with the nurse supervisor, and I asked that she not be allowed back in my daughter's room, and someone else took over her care from then on. All the other nurses were fantastic.

The thing with pain, once it gets out of control, it takes forever, usually hours, to ramp back down again. If you see her moaning or starting to get uncomfortable, tell the nurses right away. Don't let her get to the point where she's frantic. Even if they tell you she can't get any more meds, insist on speaking to pain management, because there's always something that can be done.

Hang in there, and try to get some sleep. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Susanna

nikyergen

04-04-2005, 10:20 AM

Theresa,
When Crystal was taken off the morphine pump, they tried oral meds every four hours. Didn't take long before they figured out that wasn't going to work. This is an example at what was done for Crystal. at 8am they would give her morphine (oral) then at 10am codiene (oral), at 12noon morphine, and so on and so forth. If they are making her sick to her stomach they can give her phenigrin (sp) in her IV to releave that. So, don't let them tell you that they can't do anything. They can.

Don't be affraid to get assertive with the nurses. She is your child and you have to deal with it, not them. They can walk out of the room when they don't want to deal with it.

Keeping lots of prayers for you guys.

'til later,
Nikki

jc3

04-04-2005, 11:55 AM

susanna
i had a big problem with "nettie" as well and richard was really mad about the whole thing. This is what happened. Nettie was our night nurse and when richard left for the night he told us no one is to press nicole's pump, not me, nor any nurses, only nicole when she needs it. Well he leaves, nettie comes on duty and i am laying in the chairbed next to nicole and she comes in to check nicole and at the time nicole was resting comfortably and i see her press the button. I should have said something, but didn't. My husband says i have a big mouth when it comes to him, but not in those kind of situations. Anyway, i didn't sleep all night worried that she was going to do that again. I hid the button under nicoles covers. I was worried that she would be pressing it for nicole all night so nicole would sleep and not bother her. I was worried that nicole would get overmedicated, since that was the first night they were trying to get her on oral meds and wean her from the pump. Anyway, Richard comes back the next day and i told him. He was really mad. I told him not to say anything to her just in case we had her again, but before he left he did, which i didn't know until i went to go ask Netti for something and she was very nasty! She had a major attitude to me and it was very noticable that he had said something. I gave it to her right back and then she said that "she IS allowed to press the pump. I told her then that i was told it was only for nicole to press and i did not want her to touch it. I was very nasty to her and then she got nice and everything was fine. I can't believe other people have had problems with her.
Jennifer

nicoles mom

04-04-2005, 09:02 PM

My Husband Went Home Today. They Are Pushing Nicole To Move The Kid Is Moaning In Pain Off And On. She Went For A Standing Xray Today.dr. Boachie Came In And Said Maybe Tomorrow. [tues] Gtg

nikyergen

04-04-2005, 10:41 PM

Theresa,
I hope Nikki gets up and moving soon. I am sure she will feel better once she gets confident walking. Has she started walking much yet? Don't let them worry her about having a bowel movement. The doctor finally got in the middle of the nurses and told them to leave Crystal alone. He was very confident that once she got home in her own surroundings that wouldn't be a problem. Guess what, he was soooo very correct. Are they able to keep her pain under control? I just can't tell you how much better Crystal did once we got her in the van to come home. It was all the difference in the world to know she was going home. She done nothing but go up hill since then. I felt like we were stuck on dead center at the hospital.

My prayers are with you.

'til later,
Nikki

susannajon

04-05-2005, 07:32 AM

Hi Theresa,

I hope you're getting ready to go home today. It sounds like you're right on schedule with Nicole and she's doing great!

Hi Jennifer,

I am sorry you had to endure Nettie too. We had a lot of family support, and my husband and I took turns spending the night in the hospital room, and my step-mom also took one night to give both of us a break. One night when my husband had "night duty", my daughter was having trouble with pain control. She was up all night moaning and crying, and Nettie never escalated the situation to the pain management team. When I got there the next morning, both of them had not slept a wink, and my daughter was exhausted and miserable. I raised holy hell, and Nettie was apparently reprimanded for not paging pain management to come and help my daughter.

The next night, my step-mom spent the night in the hospital room, and Nettie was again our nurse. She was apparently angry about me making a fuss, and she took it out on my daughter. She was nasty, and did little passive aggressive things to my daughter all night long. She turned her and was unnecessarilly rough with her, yanking on her arm and moving her chest tube roughly. Every time she came in to do vitals, she would march in basically yelling and turn on all the big overhead lights. My daughter's pain pump ran out of medication, and it took her 50 minutes to respond, even with the alarm blaring and after being paged multiple times. When she finally showed up, she accused my stepmother of messing with my daughter's IV, which was totally ridiculous, as I know she would never touch the medical equipment. Another nurse finally heard the commotion and came in and rescued my daughter.

We kept a journal while we were in the hospital, so we had a detailed record of exactly what had gone on, with times and details. We used the journal as documentation to file the complaint, which was very helpful. I should say that every other nurse we had was absolutely top notch, some of the best care I've ever experienced, and overall the hospital was excellent. It just takes one bad apple to color your experience, though.

Susanna

lorrie

04-05-2005, 09:16 AM

Hi Theresa
Sounds like you two are having a bit of a rough ride. Hope things improve soon.
Thoughts and prayers coming your way

Lorrie

nicoles mom

04-07-2005, 11:47 AM

Hi Eveyone
Nicole Is Home We Came Home Tue Night Just To Busy To Post. Lura So Glad Alex Surgery Went Well AND YOUR HOME. I Will Post Later When I Get The Time.
Theresa

Lura

04-07-2005, 03:03 PM

Theresa,

Alex is doing so well, I am praying that Nicole is settling in well now that she is home. Feels good to be home, huh? I am still pretty tired, as Alex gets up around 2 a.m. each night and wants to snuggle to get back to sleep. He's been off pain meds for 3 or 4 days (I've lost track). I think he has some pain, but he just hates the meds, so what's a mom to do?

To all mom's whose children feel great in a short amount of time, I just heard of a girl here who had surgery in January, was feeling so good, and then had a rod come loose? I hear she now is in a cast. I will try to verify this for more accurate information. I guess the key is to really give them time to heal.

Welcome home Theresa and Nicole!! Rest, rest, rest!!!!!

Lura

Mary Lou

04-07-2005, 03:11 PM

Lura,

A rod coming loose? Yikes! That's ever parent's nightmare. I agree with you, they need time to heal, but I'll tell you right now has been the hardest time of all for Jamie. She is 4 months post-op and still VERY limited on what she can and cannot do and she is going crazy now that the weather is getting nicer. She knows why she can't do much, but it doesn't make it any easier. Does anyone have any suggestions on things to do outside that don't require running, jumping, riding bikes, etc.? Thanks.

Mary Lou

jc3

04-07-2005, 06:01 PM

hi marylou
there's not much else to do if you can't run, jump, ride a bike, etc. When the weather gets warmer swimming will be good. I know it's hard when they are not allowed to do anything that's when they want to do it. My daughter never rides her bike and now since she can't she wants to. Go figure. My daughter has been doing alot of walking since the weather is getting a little nicer. Her and her friends have been walking to the ice-cream store, dunkin donuts, etc. It is about a mile from our house, maybe a little more and i thought it would be too much for her and she said her back doesn't hurt at all when she is walking, which i was happy to hear. The other day they walked to friendly's and that is even farther and i was worried that her back would bother her and it didn't and that's good exercise.
Hearing Lura write about that person's rod coming loose is definitely my worst nightmare. I was a wreck the other day, nicole had to go to the orth and she had a longer appointment then usual and they said she needed to be premedicated for it and she said her gums were bleeding a little and i was nervous about that, because they say you can get an infection around the rods or something like that. A very scary thought! Just something else to worry about
Jennifer

nicoles mom

04-07-2005, 10:27 PM

well i'm going to try to post nicole is still awake so she may call on me.
DR. BOACHE OFFICE CALLED US TODAY AND WE ARE GOING BACK TOMORROW TO BE FITTED FOR A BRACE. THIS WAS SUPPOSE TO BE DONE BEFORE WE WHEN HOME BUT SOMEONE MESSED UP. SO BACK TO THE CITY TOMMORROW. NICOLE HAS A LOT OF SHOULDER AND RIB PAIN AND STILL HASN'T GONE TO THE BATHROOM #2 SINCE WE HAVE BEEN HOME. SHE IS TAKING COLICE AND IS ON VICODEN FOR PAIN EVERY 4 HRS. I WASHED HER HAIR TODAY AND GAVE HER A BATH. THE NURSE WE HAD THE LAST TWO DAYS WOULD NOT WASH HER HAIR OR THE AID. THEY TOLD ME THAT I SHOULD DO THIS WHEN I GET HOME. HER BACK LOOKS GOOD DR.BOACHIE DID A GREAT JOB. I DIDN'T LIKE ALOT OF THE NURSES AT THE HOSIPTAL AND ALWAYS TOOK FOREVER TO COME WHEN NICOLE WAS SCREAMING IN PAIN. THIS PISSED ME OFF. THE NIGHT TIME WAS THE WORST. THE NURSES AND AIDS WERE NEVER AROUND. I WENT LOOKING FOR THEM AND MY AID WAS ASLEEP IN A ROOM . MY NURSE JIMMY WAS NO WHERE TO BE FOUND. I MADE NICOLE DRINK SOUR MILK FROM THE BREAKFAST TRAY AND THEN AGAIN AFTER I COMPLAINED WE GOT ANOTHER SOUR CONTAINER. HERE I GO WRITE BACK LATER GTG
THERESA

nicoles mom

04-07-2005, 10:41 PM

One Night She Was Having A Lot Of Pain Screaming And The Morphine Was Making Her Crazy. She Pulled Her Iv Out And The Blood Was All Over Looked Like The The Pint She Got The Night Before Was Lost. My Nurse Stacy Tried Three Times To Get Anew Vein Then She Called Jimmy I Let Him Try Three Times Before I Starter Screaming To Get Someone Who Knew What They Were Doing. This Took About 45 Min And No Pain Meds She Of Course She Was In Alot Pain. I Did Have A Few Good Nurse Too. But I Was Very Upset About The Whole Hospital.
Theresa

Mary Lou

04-08-2005, 04:34 AM

Theresa,

I am so sorry to about the problems you had while in the hospital. Like everyone says, you must control the pain! I know it is a little late now, but maybe it'll help someone else, why didn't you ask for a shot of pain meds when her I.V. was pulled out or did you? I would imagine they could have given her something.

We had one bad pain med experience. Jamie was on oral meds, and I asked the nurse about ten minutes before they were due just to remind her. I know they are busy and it takes a while sometimes, so I asked early. She came right away and checked her chart and said she would be back with them in ten minutes when they were due. Jamie and I were exhausted and fell asleep. Jamie woke up two hours later in extreme pain and she never complained about pain before. I called the nurse and she came in and I told her she was to bring it two hours ago and she said she got busy with a difficult patient. She got the pains quickly, but it was too late. The pain was too far gone. I told her I wanted a shot of Morphine now and she argued with me that she was off the Morphine drip and was only to take her oral meds. I told her again to get us a shot of Morphine or I would be paging the doctor. She came back quickly with the shot. It still didn't take the edge off of the pain for the oral meds to work. I told her to get another shot and she gave me an evil look but did it anyway. That finally worked and she got settled down. This was all the night before we were supposed to go home! We had a very nice talk with the doctor the next morning and he of course asked about her pain control, as we had already switched her oral meds twice during her stay. I told him the events of the night before and knowing the doctor, someone got a serious lecture, because we heard part of it, and he would not accept any excuses from the nurse. Needless to say, we ended up staying an extra day to make sure her pain would be controlled at home and the nurses were always there about three minutes before her next meds were due to tell me they were on their way to get her pills and we never had a problem again.

All parents need to speak up for their children. I know for some that is hard, but we never asked the nurses for much. I turned Jamie, I bathed Jamie, I dressed Jamie, I transferred her in and out of bed, took her to the bathroom, for walks, etc. The only things I asked of the nurses was to bring her meds. and wash her hair once before we went home. They wouldn't even wash her hair for me until the doctor offered to write an order (which he did) for them to wash her hair! Speak up for your kids, no matter what.

Mary Lou

nikyergen

04-08-2005, 11:22 AM

Theresa,
I am so very sorry Nicole and you had such a horrible experience in the hospital. Even though it is over, I think I would be jumping one doctor about it still. There was no reason for that to happen, other than someone's lack of caring.

I certainly hope things are better now. At least at home, you can stay right on top of her pain.

Our experience in Shriners Hospital was very good. Crystal's pain meds were always on time and the nurses were very receptive when I asked when she could have her next one. I only had one nurse that was a problem, got very assertive with her once, and it never happened again. The pain med was only about 15 minutes late. So, we didn't get to far behind on the pain.

I am praying for you both as Nicole recovers. Hopefully, she is better now that she is home.

'til later,
Nikki

nicoles mom

04-08-2005, 10:46 PM

Marylou
I Did All I Could At The Hospital For My Daughter And The Doctor Did Get An Earfull From Me. The Night Staff Was The Worst Of The Bunch. During The Day I Was Happy With Everything. She Did Got A Shot About 40 Minutes It Took Pain Managrment To Respond.

I Cancelled Today Appointment To Get The Brace I Just Couldn't Put Her In The Car. We Needed To Leave About 8;00 Am To Hopefully Be In The City By 10;00 Am.[with The Traffic] We Are Going On Tue Instead At 1:15 Pm.
I Was Thinking Of Changing The Pain Meds Within Three Hrs Her Pain Is Back And She Needs To Wait 1 Hr Before The Next Dose.
Nikki
Nicole Is Very Happy To Be Home. With Each Day I See Her Getting Better Today She Walked Down The Block And Back. Just Having A Problem With Going To The Bathroom Shes Afraid To Push. She Taking Colice Twice A Day. May Try Prune Juice Tommorrow.
Theresa
Theresa

nikyergen

04-08-2005, 11:30 PM

Theresa,
Crystal has found that putting a regular sized bed pillow behind her when she has to have a bowel movement helps a lot. It gives her something padded to lean against. I sure wish the stool softener would work. It really helped Crystal within a couple of days. You may want to try a suppository for her too. Does she drink plenty of fluids? We are big water drinkers at our house, so we are always pushing water on everyone in the world. Try the pillow trick.

When Crystal heads to the bathroom with the pillow, I know what she is up too. lol!

I don't blame you for not taking Nicole to the doctor today for her appointment. I am glad to see she is walking so far. Our weather has been terrible here, so Crystal hasn't been out for a walk yet, but she is wearing a path in the carpet.

Just to let you know you are always in my prayers.

Love and lots of prayers.

'til later,
Nikki

Mary Lou

04-09-2005, 06:02 AM

Theresa,

We Moms can sure relate to our daugthers when it comes to moving their bowels. Remember the first time you had to go to the bathroom after giving birth and still having stitches? Yeah, we know how they feel. Is your daughter drinking LOTS of water? Is she avoiding things that might work against her, not speaking of iron pills and pain, meds, but maybe foods like too much cheese, etc.? It sounds like I don't need to remind her to move around, because she is doing great if she is walking around outside. That should help.

I am so sorry about the problems with the night staff at the hospital. There is no reason for that, but I am glad you took charge.

Mary Lou

lorrie

04-09-2005, 10:19 AM

Hi Theresa
If Nicole can stand it, it might help to massage her stomach. This was something our continence nurse taught me to do for Genevieve (who has chroninc difficulties in that direction). It's important to make sure you go in a clockwise direction across the top of her abdomen from her right to her left andthen down the left hand side and back across the bottom, left to right. This means you are massaging in the 'direction of travel'. You need to use a fairly firm pressure and it helps to use some olive oil to make your hands flow easily.
Good luck,

Lorrie

nicoles mom

04-09-2005, 07:32 PM

Well It Happened I Think The Prune Juice Did It. Nikki The Pillow Was A Great Idea And Nicole Is Using One . She Is Drinking A Little More Water Today But Not As Much As I Would Like Her To. Well I Guess One Day At A Time.
I Had To Cut Down On Her Pain Meds. On Tue I Had 60 Pills Filled. Taking 2 Pills Every 4rs. On Monday At 8pm I Will Be Out Of Pills And They Won't Fill The Prescription Till Tues. Because In Nys Fda Allows You To Take 8 Pills A Day That = 4 Grams Of Acetaminophen A Day.
[they Say It's Not Good For Your Liver] So They Won't Fill It. So I'm Cutting One Pill In Half And Giving Her 1 1/2 Every 4hrs. Do You Believe That I Wish Someone Told Us. I Guess I Should Start To Wean Her Off The Meds Anywhy.
So Heres The ????? When Did Everyone Else Start To Wean They Kids Off The Meds Given For Pain. I Spoke To The Doctor And He Didn't Want To Change The Meds Or Give Something Else. He Said Try Cutting One Pill In Half.
Theresa

nikyergen

04-09-2005, 09:53 PM

Theresa,
I am so glad things are getting better for Nicole. Really keep pushing the fluids, and any kind of fruit juice will help her a lot. Prune Juice isn't the kind of tasty a kid would like. Maybe apple juice would be more to her liking. I am glad the pillow worked for her.

Crystal hasn't been really heavy on her pain meds. Her first perscription of 45 codience (300mg) lasted 7 days. Her second one of 30 pills at 500mg lasted her 2 1/2 weeks. Her third one I just picked up yesterday and she took her first one out of it this morning. She has been able to get by for the most part during the day on tylenol. She usually only takes her pres.pain med at bedtime now. We are going to start cutting that one in half next week. She doesn't like taking them because she become the ______ from you know where and she doesn't like that feeling. If you give her an OTC during the day only use tylenol (or its generic mate). The reason for this is because Advil (ibuprofene) and Aleve (naproxine) slow down the bone healing process.

Keep in mind as you go through the weaning process that Nicole had a horrible experience with pain in the hospital. She is probably scared to death that will happen again. Do everything you can to keep her comfortable, which I am sure you are already doing. It is so much nicer to do these things at home, than in the hospital. Also, keep her on the stool softener for a while. Crystal took it for about two weeks after we got home. That way she didn't have to push as hard and it wasn't as painful.

So glad things are looking up. Nicole will be up and driving you nuts soon. Crystal is really driving me nuts. Going stir crazy because they can't go do anything on their own.

Love and lots of prayers to you.

'til later,
Nikki

fran

04-10-2005, 08:44 AM

Has anyone heard from Theresa. I think her daughter Nikki was having surgery March 30 at Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan yesterday and i know there are computers there. I'm surprised she hasn't posted.
Jennifer
Hi! Jennifer this is Fran....I can not believe I come on this site and yours is the first message I read. Thank you for sending me this site...I will write you back soon.

jc3

04-10-2005, 08:32 PM

hi fran
That is so funny that you found me on here LOL. I'm glad you came on here to check it out the people on here are really helpful. Talk to you soon.
Jen

Mary Lou

04-11-2005, 08:33 AM

Theresa,

I'm glad to hear things are "working" for your daughter now. Keep pushing the fluids!

When to wean kids off pain meds.....that's a good question. I think only you can really answer that. Everyone seems to have a very different experience with that one. The reason I say you should answer that is because you know your daughter best. Is she really needing the pain meds every four hours around the clock or is it a case of habit? If you didn't offer them to her right at the four hour mark, do you think she could go longer without them? Those are things you need to work out, but remember, you don't want the pain to get too far ahead of her or it will be harder on her.

We were lucky. Jamie has a very high tolerance for pain. I was concerned when we left the hospital and they only gave us a prescription for one week's worth of meds. I was told that they would prescribe something else after that, but they didn't want her on the strong drugs for too long. I shouldn't have worried....Jamie never even finished that week's worth of meds. So, less than two weeks after surgery, Jamie was totally off pain meds totally, including Tylenol.

Mary Lou

Lura

04-11-2005, 05:08 PM

Theresa,

How is Nicole doing? Alex is walking a bit crooked so I called and they aren't worried (I guess I'm a worry wort). He has also had some light headedness, and being the absent-minded person I've become (thanks to the stress of surgery), I haven't been giving him his vitamin with iron, so hopefully now that I'm on top of this it will improve! I was so concerned with the surgery, that I didn't stop to think of what it would be like at home afterward, seems just as stressful in a different way. How is the sleep for you? Alex isn't on pain meds, but still up in the middle of the night, so I have yet to sleep all night! Could be much worse, so I won't complain too loudly!

Let me know how you are!

Lura

nicoles mom

04-11-2005, 06:56 PM

HI LURA
SO GLAD TO HEAR FROM YOU. I CANT'T BELIEVE ALEX IS NOT ON PAIN MEDS THATS GREAT!. NICOLE IS STILL ON THE PAIN MEDS AND HAS VERY LITTLE TOLERANCE WITH THE PAIN. SHE HAD 5 RIBS CUT FOR THE RIB HUMP AND BONE GRAPH. SHE IS IN ALOT OF PAIN FROM THAT. I''M ALWAYS PUTTING ICE ON HER RIBS AND BACK. SHE GETS UP EVERY 5 HRS FOR PAIN MEDS AND I'M TRYING TO WEEN HER OFF OF THEM. THEY CHANGED HER MEDS SO I THINK THATS OUR PROBLEM. I'M GOING BACK TO THE CITY TOMORROW SHE IS BEING FITTED FOR A BRACE. I'M GLAD WE ARE GOING I JUST NEED TO ASK A WHOLE LOT OF ????????s. I'M A WORRY WORT TOO. I KNOW THE CAR RIDE IS GOING TO KILL HER BUT WE HAVE TO GO. I TOOK HER TO BLOCKBUSTER TODAY. SHE WAS WIPED OUT WHEN WE GOT BACK HOME. WE WERE ONLY GONE FOR ABOUT 10 MIN. SHE HAS BEEN WALKING UP ARE BLOCK AND BACK ONCE A DAY. HER TEACHERS ARE COMING ON THRUSDAY TO START HOME SCHOOLING. I'M STILL TRIED AND MY HUSBAND WOULD HELP HER BUT ALL SHE WANTS IS ME. HE GETS UPSET BUT UNDERSTANDS SO HES BEEN DOING EVERYTHING ELSE AROUND THE HOUSE. I FEEL LIKE I HAD A NEW BORN BABY. BUT THIS IS OK MY NICOLE MAKES MY HEART SHINE
THERESA :)

Lura

04-12-2005, 09:56 PM

HI Theresa!

Thought about you today and your trip into the city, hoping all went well! Alex gets very tired easily still, too. I hadn't been giving him his vitamins with iron until Sunday, and they seem to be helping (he lost quite a bit of blood so I am thinking his may have been slightly anemic (sp).) Anyway, our big trip the other day was also to Blockbuster, this is Alex's favorite place! I am a single mom, so I totally identify with your being tired from being the primary care giver, and your husband sounds wonderful. My family helps out as does Alex's dad when he has time, but Alex wants mom-mom to do most everything. Anyway, nice to see your thread, take good care of Nicole and yourself!

Lura

nikyergen

04-13-2005, 04:51 PM

Theresa,
How did Nicole handle the trip to be fitted for her brace? I hope she did well. Crystal is getting around handily now. The only thing we do for her is pick something up if she dropped it and help her get her shoes tied. She does the rest on her own. Do keep an eye on Nicole to make sure she gets some deep breathing done in her brace each day. Crystal has come down with bronchitis. The doctor thinks it is from having the brace on and not being able to really fill her lungs when breathing. She is on antibiotics and on the road to recovery. Shooting for school again on Monday. She is pretty current on her school work though.

Let us know how the brace and Nicole are doing. Still praying for you guys.

Love and prayers.
'til later,
Nikki

nicoles mom

04-14-2005, 07:10 PM

Hey Nikki
Hope All Is Well With Crystal.
Nicole Is Driving My Crazy With Picking Things Up. My Sister Got Her A Grabber She Throws Things On The Floor Calls For Me And Says O I Got It Ha Ha. Got To Love My Nicole.
The English Teacher Came For Two Hours Today Sitting That Long Tried Her Out. I'm Still Giving Her Pain Med Every 4hrs Doc Say Its Ok Her Ribs And Lower Back Are Causing Her Pain. Next Week I'm Going To Try To Wean Her Off. I Think Once She Gets That Brace On She Will Feel Better At Least I Hope.
She Was Wiped Out Went We Got Home From The City. They Said Her Brace Will Be Ready In A Week So Back Again. Its A Cool Looking Brace Half The Size Of A Regular Tlso Jacket And Its Just To Hold The Lumbar. The Brace Guy Told Us It Is One One The Newest Kind Of Braces And Working Well On The Type Of Cruve Nicole Has. I Hope I Can Fine Jeans To Fit Her Or She Will Be One Unhappy Teenager.
The Top Cruve Went From 58 To 19. The Bottom From 55 To 38. The Brace Is To Hold Her Lumbar Till Her Body Is Done Growing. Too Me She Looks Uneven Before Her Cruve Was T-58 B-55 Now T-19 B 38 So I Guess Thats Why. O And Shes Walking On Her Toes.
Well Hopefully This Brace Works Or More Surgery In The Future. I'm Taking It One Day At A Time.
Theresa

susannajon

04-14-2005, 08:25 PM

Hi Theresa,

My daughter's still taking pain meds, and it's been 5 weeks since surgery. She is down from 10mg every three hours round the clock, to 5mg every 4 hours in the day, and she goes about 6 hours at night. This is a big, big, surgery, and every kid is different. Don't worry about the pain meds yet. If she needs them, she needs them. Every day will get a little easier.

Old Navy has stretchy jeans that will fit over the brace, and they're not terribly expensive. K-Mart's Route 66 stretch jeans are another inexpensive option.

I had to laugh. I just have one child and USED TO sometimes think, "Wouldn't it be nice to have another baby..." Well, let me tell you, I am totally cured! I am too old for this up every three hours stuff. I need my sleep, so there will be no babies in this old girl's future!

Fondly,

nikyergen

04-14-2005, 09:37 PM

Theresa,
Glad to hear Nicole got fitted for her brace. I think one reason Crystal is doing so well, is that she has had her brace since the second day after her surgery. It keeps her stabilized, so she feels she can get up and move around without hurting.

I am thrilled to have her down to one 5mg codiene at night when she goes to bed. The only time she takes one the next morning is when she has had a big day the day before. She'll take tylenol once in a while during the day.

We have had a hair raising week. My husband was in the e-room on Sunday evening with what they thought was a UTI. Crystal was in the e-room Monday for her bronchitis. Then, Craig was back in the e-room at 1:30am this morning in excrutiating pain. They got his pain under control and sent us home about 4am. He was to be back at 9am for and IVP xray. Well, we were back in the e-room at 7am. The final outcome was a kidney stone, that the doctor was able to extract with an outpatient surgery. We are all wore out tonight. Crystal will probably sleep most of the day tomorrow. We'll see how good our insurance is this week won't we. I've taken someone to the e-room 4 times in one week and it is only Thursday. My middle daughter broke her toe on Monday afternoon too. I didn't take her in because all they would do for it was to tape the two toes together and I can do that at home. I called a family meeting tonight and told them that MOM HAS SPENT WAY TOO MUCH TIME IN THE HOSPITAL SCENARIO for the last 30 days. So, please let's everyone heal up and give mom a little break. They all agreed.

Susanna,
I agree having to do this surgery with these kids can sure cure someone of wanting another baby. I agree, I am too old for another baby and being up every three hours too. I'm cured, I'm cured. No new babies at this house either. Also, glad to see that your daughter is using less pain meds.

Keeping everyone in my prayers.

Love and prayers to you all.

'til later,
Nikki

Lura

04-14-2005, 10:31 PM

Hello Susanna and Nikki,

I, too, have had the occasional urge to have a second child. Alex's surgery definately cured me as well!! My new theory is that the money saved from not having another baby could be put to good use with a Hawaiian vacation. STRESS FREE, don't you agree?

Nikki, I hope you are able to get through the weekend without any emergencies, and try to get some rest!!!

Later Gals!

Lura

nicoles mom

04-14-2005, 11:02 PM

Hi Suanne Hows Grace Feeling. When Is She Going Back To School. What Kind Of Pain Meds Is She Taking.
Its Two Weeks For Nicole. I Was Very Worried About The Pain Meds But Dr. Boachie Told Me Not To Worry. I Had A Lot Of Problems At The Hospital I Was So Unhappy With Some Of The Staff And Dr. Boachie Was Very Mad At What Happened To Us. They Had Such A Hard Time Getting Control Of Her Pain And Twice They Wanted To Send Her Back Downstair Because They Didn't Have The Time To Come In When I Called For Help. The Weekend Was The Worst At Night Sometimes I Would Walk Out To The Nurses Station And No One Was There. I Found Her Aid One Night Sleeping In An Empty Room I Asked Her If She Could Help Me Turn Nicole And She Told Me She Was On Her Break And The Nurse Was No Where To Be Found. Thank God Nicole Was The Only Kid In The Peds Area And I Was They With Her. They Lost Her Standing Xrays And Had To Be Taken Again. We Got Sour Milk Twice. It Was So Sad I Made Her Drink This Milk In A Slipper Cup. She Keep Telling Me That It Tasted Funny. I Told Her Thats Because You Haven't Had Anything To Drink. I Went Nuts I Looked At The Date After Tasting It Myself Mar 23 Her Surgery Was On THe 30th. Then Two Days Later Again But I Drank That One. Nicole Is Taking Norco 10/325mg I Tab Every 4hrs. Ok Sorry For Chewing Your Ear Off. And I Agree With You Girls No More Babies For Me One Is All I Can Handle. Thats Way God Bless Me With One.
Theresa

nikyergen

04-14-2005, 11:02 PM

Lura,
I like your idea. A vacation. HAWAII. Sounds relaxing. What a great idea?

Nikki

nicoles mom

04-14-2005, 11:17 PM

Hey Lura I Would Love To Go Away Sounds Good To Me I Have To Pay The Hospital First. Nicole And I Are Going To Disney World Feb 2006. With Two Of Her Friends Can't Wait.
Niikki
You Are In My Prayer Your Family Is Lucky To Have You Hold It Together.

Theresa

Mary Lou

04-15-2005, 06:12 AM

A second child is as much of a blessing as the first and I couldn't imagine not having both of my daughters. Having said that, we had both of our children when we wanted them and couldn't imagine having another child now! My youngest just turned 12 and since I am "pushing 40" according to my husband (I actually have just over 2 yrs. until I reach 40), our lives are so easy now I wouldn't choose to start over with the 2 a.m. feedings, diapers, etc. Friends of ours have a 14 y.o. and a 17 y.o. and they also have a 6 month old! Yikes!

Anyway, the idea of Hawaii sounds wonderful! When do we leave? I think we all need to meet up in Hawaii and just relax and watch our kids play in the ocean together, while we Moms sit on the beach sipping drinks and talking about anything but our kids backs, their surgeries, the expense, etc. Okay, we all know that's not going to happen, but it sounds good doesn't it?

I am so grateful for this forum. Our kids are always a big priority in our lives and when we go through what we have with our kids, it really helps to have the support of others. Thanks guys!

Mary Lou

susannajon

04-15-2005, 07:14 AM

Mary Lou, I'm pushing 40 harder than you! I am 39 and will be 40 in November. Many of my friends are just now getting around to motherhood, and I WAS tempted, but no more.

Theresa, My daughter is on Percocet 5/325 mg every 4 hours in the daytime, and every 6 hours at night. She is about 5 weeks post-op. We are hoping she will be ready to go back to school the week of 4/25 or the week of 5/2, depending on how she's feeling. We had a tough time with one of the night nurses, but after raising holy heck and banning her from our room, everyone else was great.

I'll see you guys in Hawaii!!!!

Susanna

nikyergen

04-15-2005, 10:35 AM

Now, Now. Be careful about the over 40 thing. I'm 40+ by several years, not a couple, but several. I have a friend that just had a baby and is in his late forties, he is starting his second family. I just can't imagine having a baby again. Oh, my.

Well, at least we all know a much needed vacation is in our dreams. Maybe someday.

'til later,
Nikki

susannajon

04-15-2005, 10:58 AM

Hi Nikki,

My friends range in age from late thirties to early forties, and they're all having babies... First babies! My husband and I just got an early start, having our daughter when we were 25 and 26, so she has been the token child in our circle of friends for quite a while. Now she's on the verge of being the most "in demand" baby sitter! I think I'll stick to admiring other people's babies, and wait patiently for grandchildren.

Susanna

nikyergen

04-15-2005, 11:53 PM

Susanna,
If we wait for grandchildren, we can spoil them and then send them home to their parents.

I like admiring other peoples babies too. I can give them back when they need more attention than I am wanting to give at the moment.

My family is having a hard time figuring out what I am laughing so hard about.

I've needed this laugh all day. It has been a rough day at the ranch, we have those days. Crystal has been great though. She goes to prom tomorrow night. She's excited.

Nikki

lorrie

04-16-2005, 08:56 AM

I never had to make the 'second baby' decision - mine came along in a bumper duo pack. Got it all over with in one fell swoop. They arrived at 28 weeks too so I reckon i should have got some kind of productivity bonus!

Lorrie

nikyergen

04-16-2005, 07:16 PM

Lorrie,
I agree, you do deserve a production bonus. I can't imagine coming home with more than one baby at a time. I bet it a lot of work. I admire you mom's that come up with incredible schedules to deal with more than one at a time.

I bet they are just precious babes, no matter what their ages are. I think I would of been done if I had more than one the first time. I'd be afraid that it might just happen again. We had three singles instead.

'til later,
Nikki

nicoles mom

04-16-2005, 10:03 PM

Hey Everybody

Nicole Is Having Pains On Her Left Side Is This A Normal After Surgery. Anybody Elses Kids Have This Problem Too. Her Right Is Sore From The Ribs That Were Removed. But Now She Is Having Pains On The Left Side Right Above Her Hib.
Theresa

susannajon

04-17-2005, 08:26 AM

Hi Theresa, Nicole's going to have all kinds of muscle pains as her body adjusts to it's new position. She might have pain in her shoulder, side, hips legs, etc. Everything has shifted a little, and this puts strain on those muscles until they get used to it.

Susanna

nicoles mom

04-17-2005, 09:33 AM

Thanks Susanne

I Was Alittle Worried Because She Not Back To Regularly Going To The Bathroom. She Is Taking Colice Twice A Day And Drinking Water But Not As Much As I Would Like Her Too. Shes Not A Juice Drinker Her Shoulder Hurts Too. We See Dr. Boachie Again On Wed. I Guess He Will Put My Mind At Ease. We Need To Go Back To The City To Pick Up Her Brace. She Is Going To Be Wearing A Lso Brace. Hopefully All Goes Well And We Wont Have To Go Back For A While. Shes Very Uncomfortable Riding In The Car.
Thanks Again
Theresa

susannajon

04-17-2005, 03:08 PM

Theresa, try to make sure she has a BM at least every other day, as constipation is extremely painful at this stage of the game. If it's not happening with Colace, try glycerin suppositories. Poor kids, it's so tough, they feel like they have no dignity or privacy left at this point, but those nasty suppositories work every time!

I just told my daughter, "It's a suppository now, or an enema later... Take your pick!" She grudgingly chose the suppository, and within 20 minutes, she was back on track. I also used Benefiber, which I added to iced tea or lemonade. She couldn't tell it was there, and she stayed pretty regular. We only had to use the suppository twice.

Susanna

nikyergen

04-17-2005, 10:06 PM

Theresa,
Along with what Susanna said, you may try to get her to eat lots of fresh fruit. That should help some too. Has her appetite picked back up to normal yet? That can be a factor. Keep pushing the water. Crystal drinks about 8 32 ounce glasses of water a day. Not because we make her, but she likes water.

Keep us posted on Nicole.

Lots of prayers.
'til later,
Nikki

nicoles mom

04-18-2005, 08:22 AM

hey nikki

Nicole is a picker eater always was shes only 73 pounds now before surgery she was 79 so she a little skinny thing. I have been pushing the fruits apples and oranges thats all she likes. The meds shes is on is not helping i'm going to see if they can change them. She taking norco 10/325 mg. I'm going to gave her a suppository today.

Mary Lou

04-18-2005, 08:31 AM

Theresa,

Suppositories are not pleasant, but that's what worked for Jamie. We were supposed to go home from the hospital on a Saturday, but her bowels hadn't moved and they were insistant that they move before she could go home. They did the suppository (Saturday), and we were on our way home on Sunday. Luckily, she didn't have any problems after that. Good luck.

Mary Lou

nicoles mom

04-18-2005, 09:00 AM

Mary Lou
What Kind Of Pain Meds Was Jamie Taking. I Really Think This Is Making Nicole Constipation.
Theresa

nikyergen

04-18-2005, 09:04 AM

Hey Theresa,
Is there a reason they still have her on Norco? Crystal was only on it a week to use for break through pain, but they also gave her a scrip for codiene. With the codiene, she very rarely even used the Norco.

I didn't realize Nicole was so tiny. She just a bit of a thing. A couple of pounds for her is major.

Hope things get to moving for her.

I am keeping you in my prayers.

'til later,
Nikki

nicoles mom

04-18-2005, 12:02 PM

Nikki
Called The Doc They Are Changing Her To Codiene.
Theresa

Tiny

04-18-2005, 12:20 PM

Hi Theresa, the Dr. prescribed Miralax for Tara's constipation. It is a powder you mix with water or juice and drink it. There isn't a flavor so it hasn't been unpleasant. It's not addictive like a laxative, it just moves the fluid in your body to the bowels. It's worked so far, but she doesn't have the surgery and the pain meds working against her yet.
Linda

nicoles mom

04-18-2005, 08:08 PM

Hi Linda
Thanks I Will Ask The Doc About Miralax.

I Haven't Been Reading To Many Other Posts So Busy Taking Care Of My Nicole.
Just Read About Your Daughters Upcoming Surgery. These Moms On This Board Are Great And You Got The Best Information. They All Told Me About The Pain Meds. While In The Hospital Nicoles Pain Meds Got Off Track One Night. She Was In Alot Of Pain We Both Fell Asleep She Woke Up Screaming In Pain. The Nurses Were Great At First Bringing Her Pain Meds In Every 4 Hrs. When I Called For Help And Asked Why They Didn't Come Give Her The Pain Meds They Said To Me That I Needed To Like Them Know Went The 4 Hrs Mark Was Coming. I Was Very Upset Because I Just Assume They Would Come And Give Her The Meds At Lease Thats What They Were Doing The Day Before. So I Would Set My Alram On My Cell Phone So This Would Not Happen Again. All The Nurses Had There Own Way Of Caring For Nicole . Some Where The Best And Some Were The Pits. I Think All The Best Nurses At My Hospital Were On Vacation That Week. I Heard Nothing But The Best About The Hospital From Many People. So Keep You Eyes And Ears Wided Open For Your Daughters Sake.
Theresa
P.s. You And Your Daughter Will Be Fine I Was Nuts Three Weeks Before Nicoles Surgery. Its Been Two 1/2 Weeks And We Are Doing Great. Each Day Gets Better Me & My Baby Have Never Been So Close. I Was Loosing Her You Know Being 12 Going On 13 In A Rough Age.

jc3

04-18-2005, 08:59 PM

That's another good thing that has come out of this whole surgery experience other then now my daughter no longer has a rib hump and her back is straight, it is the bonding experience that goes on. They are so dependent on us in the beginning and it really brought my daughter and i alot closer. We spent so much time together that when she started going out with her friends and really feeling better i have to admit i was a little sad, because she wasn't needing me anymore.

Jennifer

nicoles mom

04-18-2005, 10:11 PM

Hey Jennifer
I Know That Day Will Come.
But You Know What We Pick The Brace Up Soon So We Will Be Fighting Again. Hopefully She Will Now Understand How Important It Is To Wear Her Brace.
Theresa

Mary Lou

04-19-2005, 04:21 AM

Theresa,

Jamie was on Vicotin (?) and then Percocet.

Keep trying and you'll find something that will work for her. I think both of you will feel better once you get this taken care of.

Mary Lou

Tiny

04-19-2005, 07:14 AM

Theresa, thanks for your well wishes. I read your posts on how bad the pain control was for Nicole in hospital and I'm so glad you guys are doing so much better now. The moms have reinforced keeping up on the pain management, so I have that at the top of my list: "start tracking down the nurse at 3 1/2 hours". I hope you get the constipation worked out and she'll feel a lot better. Take care.
Linda

jc3

04-19-2005, 07:36 AM

theresa
how long will she have to wear the brace for?? I feel bad for the ones that need braces after their surgery. It's hard enough to go through the surgery. That was a big fear of mine because my daughter had a brace before her surgery and refused to wear it so i was scared that if she needed one after what would happen if she didn't wear it. But i hear alot of the kids don't have to wear it for that long.
good luck
Jennifer

nikyergen

04-19-2005, 09:45 AM

Theresa and Jennifer,
Crystal didn't have a brace before surgery, however has one now. She has to wear it for a total of 8-12 weeks. She has worn it for almost five weeks now. She has done really well with wearing it. She actually finds that it stabilizes her back and keeps her from bending and twisting and doing any damage to her back. She has been incredible about wearing her brace. The only time she hasn't wore it was Saturday night. She had her prom and we didn't make her wear it. She took it with her just in case she felt she needed it.

I hope Nicole is starting to feel better. Hopefully, the change in pain meds will help. Crystal was on percocet first, then norco, and finally codience. The codiene actually did the best for her. But, each person is totally different. The percocet made her vilantly ill. The norco she only used for break through pain.

Well, take care. Still praying.

'til later,
Nikki

nicoles mom

04-19-2005, 09:58 AM

Nikki

I'm Hoping The Brace Will Make Nicole Feel Good Too. Nicole Has Been Very Sleepy The Last Two Days Very Lazy. I'm Trying To Get Her Up. Her Friends Have Not Been Coming Around. School And After School Stuff Is Keeping Them Away. I Tried To Con Her Into Going To The Store For Some New Cloth Shoes Etc. No Interest But Nicole Always Hated Going Shopping Anyway. What Can I Say Shes A Strange 12 Yr Old Girl.
How Did Crystal Do Going To Her Prom. Thats Great She Was Able To Go. What Kind Of Dress Did She Wear. We Need Details.

Theresa

nicoles mom

04-19-2005, 10:13 AM

Jennifer
Nicole Has To Wear Her Brace Until Her Body Is Done Growing Its A Lso Brace Half The Size Of The Tlso Boston Brace. Dr. Boachie Fused Her Spine From T-4 To L-i The Top Is Now 19 Was 58 The Bottom Lumbar Is 38 Was 55. He Doesn't Want The Lumbar To Cruve Thats Way She Has To Wear The Brace. So Maybe Two Years Or Less Depends On When She Gets Her Period. She Didn't Get Her Period After Surgery So Maybe But Hopefully Not A Late Bloomer. She Has All The Sign Of Getting It Anyday.
Theresa

nikyergen

04-19-2005, 11:02 AM

Theresa,
Crystal looked stunning. She wore a fushia pink strapless open back floor lenght gown with a train on it. The back laced up to just below her rib cage. Her scar showed, but she felt that was a small price to pay to have a straight back. She was so proud of herself, which was nice to see after years of depression over her back. She wore a black stap high heel. Her hair was piled up on her head, with tendrels cascading down. Her makeup was perfect and her natural nails were beautiful. When her date came in to pick her up, he was speechless. All that came out of his mouth was "Wow." He was quite handsome too. I always laugh, because the kids out here are always so surprised when they see each other cleaned up. Usually, they see each other covered with cow manure, horse manure, or grease from working on equipment. So, it is a treat to see each other on a weekend cleaned up. Now, for the romance part of it.

Crystal and this young man dated about a year and a half ago and broke up. They have both had their boyfriend/girlfriend relationships with others. But, neither one of them has gotten over each other. She liked the fact that he always treated her with respect and treated her like a lady. He liked the fact that she was a lady and wanted to be treated that way. His mom and my mother-in-law go to the same bible study, and is a friend of mine. He knew she was having surgery and kept his mother pretty well pestered about when surgery was and when was Crystal coming home. He was over here her second day home to ask her to prom. He hadn't even told his mom he was going to ask her. They went to the prom as just friends, not even a goodnight kiss for each other. He's coming to pick her up Friday after work for a date. He likes the fact that she is low maintenance and doesn't need to have him at her side all the time. Which is good, since they are both so busy. Boy, is she twitter patted now. Now, she feels that her surgery was well worth it.

So, those of you contemplating surgery. Crystal feels it has all been worth it. She feels better about herself and everyone at the prom notice the big difference. What a great confidence builder. Hot guy wanting to take her out and everyone noticing her new posture. Great to be almost 17.

Keep an eye on Nicole. She may be having some slight depression due to the lack of being able to do anything. Crystal was that way two weeks ago. Does she feel up to going anywhere. Maybe she would like to have a hamburger with her friends. It would get her socialized and out of the house. Crystal can't stand to be left at the house alone. I am sure her meds and her other problem have really thrown her for a loop too. Maybe have a get together with her friends Friday or Saturday night, popcorn, chips, soda, a bunch of good movies. She might need some serious giggling. Crystal's friends have been great when I make that call for help to make her smile.

Well, I need to get. I have lots of transcription to get done before we head to Portland for Crystal's post-op appointment. This is the first one. I'll let you know Thursday how it went.

'til later.
Nikki

nicoles mom

04-19-2005, 08:38 PM

Good Luck With Your Post Op Appointment.
Thanks For The Details.
Sounds Like She Had A Wonderful Time.
Theresa

nikyergen

04-21-2005, 11:55 AM

Theresa,
How is Nicole feeling? Better I hope. She has been through so much with her surgery. I sure wish it would of been different for her. She'd be feeling so much better. I pray about her a lot and worry about her too. It isn't any fun to be having the problems she is having.

Crystal's first post-op went greate. Doctor didn't lift any restrictions yet. But, she only has to wear her brace in the car, at school, and when she is around a lot of people. He showed her how he wants her to squat to the ground to pickup something she has dropped. She wanted to start swimming, he said not yet. He told her that she could start swimming, light breast stroke, in four weeks. She feels like her body is getting all mushy. Poor kid.

Keep us posted on how Nicole is doing. My heart and prayers go out to her right now.

'til later,
Nikki

nikyergen

04-21-2005, 12:04 PM

nikyergen

04-21-2005, 12:30 PM