Consultation Day

The consultation went well today. The doctor decided that Mason needs a G/J-Tube. In non-medical terms, that means that they will surgically place a tube through Mason's tummy into his stomach (G-tube) and it will continue down into his intestine (J-tube). We were also wondering if Mason would need an additional stomach surgery called a fundoplication. He actually said that children with HLHS, in his experience, do not do well with the fundoplication. That tidbit of information was worth the 1,000 mile drive as the Wichita surgeon was heading down that path. The G/J-tube will allow us to feed Mason into either his stomach or intestine. This will be beneficial when he is having stomach issues and throwing up a lot. I think the doctor and staff were shocked and somewhat amused (I swear I saw a smile on his face) when we said that we were feeding Mason every 90 minutes 24 hours a day. His exact words were, "how did you come up with that schedule?" When we told him that Mason had not gained any weight from March to June until we switched to this schedule and Mason had gained over a pound in two weeks, he quickly understand why Randy and I have been sacraficing sleep in order for Mason to get the nutrition that he needs. So, they are working us in on Wednesday. We are not sure what time yet. They are suppose to be calling tomorrow to let us know.

So, tomorrow we have a free day before Mason goes into surgery. We have big plans. Mason gets to see his girlfriend, Jillian. She also has HLHS and the two of them shared a room in ICU for almost 2 months. We miss her family and can't wait to spend the day with them. I am expecting more pictures tomorrow!

Speaking of pictures, here are some from this trip so far.

Here is Mia on the pier at Lake Michigan. The lighthouse in the background was really neat!

Mia first time at the beach! She loved it! It was a good surprise to stay at such a nice place and it was on 80 degrees! Beautiful!

Daddy and Mason waited on the pier while Mia and I ventured into the water.

After Mason's consultation today, Mia only had one place that she wanted to go - the 8th floor! This is the family resource center and it is on the top floor of the children's hospital and has a great view of Ann Arbor. It also has a great rooftop playground. Here is Mia striking a pose on her favorite toy!

I'm not sure who had more fun on the playground! Just two kids enjoying the zip-line!

After we left the hospital and had a nap, we had a late lunch and then went to the mall. Mia had a great time on this bungee/tampoline ride in the mall. She got so high at times that we were afraid she was going to hit the lights in the ceiling! She is already asking if she can do it again tomorrow.