6 days ago B had his tonsils and adenoids removed. Like his big bro, his tonsils were severely enlarged and caused sleep apnea due to airway obstruction. Although his consult was done by the same dr as C, she referred him to the children's hospital because of his age. This type of surgery is not recommended for children under three for a few reasons. But his doctors and us, his parents, felt the pros outweighed the cons.
He did exceptionly well right after the procedure. In the recovery room, he was contently sleeping and cooperative in taking in fluids. When a 6 year old was rolled into the area next to him screaming and crying, the reality of how well he was doing sank in. During transport to his overnight room, he woke up and was calm as can be. The nurse couldn't believe it, she said he was the best patient she had ever seen after a tonsillectomy. It was kind of creepy how good he was. Especially after experiencing C 7 months prior. It was night and day.
The doctor put him on a regular diet, which meant he could eat anything. Again, a change from C's. C was put on a mushy diet for 2 weeks. One of the major differences in their surgeries was the technique. C's were burnt out at 600 degrees, where B's were done at 85 degrees thanks to a newer technology. Just hours after surgery, B ate like a champ! 2 cups of ice cream, 1 1/2 popsicles, apple juice, 1 cup of mac & cheese, 3 bites of a soft taco, and a slice of angel food cake.
We were put on a floor for our overnight stay with hematology and oncology pediatric patients. My heart broke the whole time and it showed us how much we have to be thankful for. I did a lot of praying staying on that floor.
During our stay we had many volunteers come in to visit B. Bless their hearts! One guy came in with a guitar and asked us for any song requests. We told him we like country and he could do any he would like. He sang Rodney Atkins, "Take the Back Road". I always get very uncomfortable when someone sings very close to me. B must feel the same way because he closed his eyes and hid his face the whole time but he was enjoying it; he would swing his leg with the music and even sang along for a short bit. Another volunteer came in with some toys and played with him. The next day we spent some time in a big play room filled with toys. B loved that!
The first few days at home went very smoothly. B was happy to be with his big bro again. Around day 3 is when things started to get a little bumpy. One of the concerns post surgery was lack of ability to reason with a 2 year old. And boy oh boy is that the truth! He's been on a medication that needs to be taken every 4 hours, which has caused some sleepless nights for the two of us. He would fight and refuse to take the meds. Unfortunately it has alcohol in it that burns and with an already sore throat, causes major discomfort. The pictures above show his expressions when I have to tell him it's time for more medicine. Also, getting him to eat and drink as been very difficult as the days go by. He's been very emotional; crying, anger, and whining.
Overall this experience has been a rollercoaster. I am keeping hopeful that perhaps the next day is when it becomes smooth sailing. The light at the end of the tunnel is starting to shine through!
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