What luck! The Doctor was generous and shared a copy of before and after photos. I insisted on asking, even though no one in my family actually expected me to get copies. It's my trachea after all!
The Good News:
They did *not* insert a ttbue or cricordotomy. Upon entering my trachea with a scope; they discovered that the cat scan was of very bad quality; and therefore a procedure they did not think was possible suddenly became possible. Basically, they shaved off the extra tissue and then injected the remaining tissue with steroids. Based on the cat scan, they would not have been able to "fit" the shaving mechanism into my trachea. So, I ended up with a very non-invasive surgery from which I already feel recovered except for extra sleepiness and a sore neck and lungs from the surgery and ventilator.
The Bad News:
While what they did today has a chance of being permanent; it is a fairly slim chance but one that is still "worth it" in the docs opinion because if it does work I won't have to worry about the really bad news.
The Really Bad News:
There is a good chance that I will either need repeat surgeries like the one today (as in up to 4 times per year) OR a PERMANENT Trache Tube! So, I am still coveting your prayers that this surgery and GOD will provide a permanent solution that doesn't involve trache tubes or 65 or more surgeries over the course of my lifetime.
wow! amazing! I was camping on sunday and didn't go to "church" but did take time to sit down in nature's cathedral by myself in the company of The Creator. I asked him for your deliverance, and well, I reckon he delivered! good for him, great for you! take it easy... looks like there is inflamation that may diminish and then the wind pipe will be open even wider.
I was so excited I cried...no surprise there I know. :) Anyway, I'm glad you don't have to go through 8-10 weeks of recovery after what would've been a very traumatic surgery AND I agree, this is better than a permanent tube...we'll just keep praying that it doesn't come back anymore. Very fun that God provided, I think the CAT scans were correct and God fixed it so they could get that shaver in there...whoa...a shaver thing in your throat, that's just crazy. Haven't called cause I figured you wouldn't like talking right now but call when you're ready! Can't wait to talk to ya!! AND can't wait to hear how you were on the happy drugs!!
LOVE YOU!
Oh, my, Amy, who knew the stenosis in your trach was so small. Praise God for all He did through your drs. I know He's not done yet! I'll keep praying.
The bottom line is; We try not to insist on parent-led learning or gravitate toward child-led learning. We try instead to focus on God-led learning and ask for His input and perspective on every aspect of our home school. That way, when others fuss about what Dan and I are doing and make me second guess our decisions -- I can go back to our decision process and find God's fingerprints, reminding me that this is His way.
