HA! Get it - 2nd helping - it's a food post! HA! Come on, you know you're at least smiling!
I know you were all squirming with excitement and anticipation yesterday when I mentioned that there might have been a 3rd post coming. Well, told you it was "might" seeing as how it never materialized. I got busy (lazy) watching TV and reading last night. But on the bright side it gives you something exciting and unexpected this morning. Unless of course you don't read this until later then it's just exciting. Either way, here we go.
So, last night I went down early, well before closing, to dinner. I wanted to ensure that I would be able to take advantage of all they had to offer. Well, it was about the same at lunch had been, sans baked potato. I came awfully close to getting the chicken fajitas (they smelled yummy) but just couldn't commit to them. Well as I was on my way to get the pitas and hummus (Yes, they're THAT good) I noticed they also had wraps available. Baja chicken wraps to be exact. The thing that sold me was the fact that they came with those tortilla chips that are made fresh from flour tortillas, you know the ones that typically only come with the queso at a restaurant. Mmmmm I love me some of those so my mind was set. Add a Cherry Coke Zero to top it off and I was a hungry camper.
The wrap was good (try it) and it came with a salsa (for those oh so wonderful tortilla chips) and that was delicious (at first I was expecting Pace but no!). The hummus was delicious (have I mentioned that before? Get the hummus!). All in all it was a good dinner, quite possibly the best meal I've had here.
I'm not sure if I will get any meals in today since Amy is being discharged. It will all depend on when we leave. So I make no promises about subsequent hospital food posts - sorry. I am going to make a trip to the Starbucks (YEAH THEY HAVE ONE!) here in a bit to get my coffee so that will be something to look forward to!
The moral of these posts is - who knew hospital food could be so good? I guess that's more of a discovery or revelation rather than a moral but I won't split hairs. If you're ever here at Memorial Hermann - Memorial City visiting friends or family, treat yourself. I guess if you work in the area you could also just stop on by and grab a bite to eat too, kinda like a restaurant since the cafeteria is near one of the entrances. Then you wouldn't even have to wait for a surgery or appointment to pop up! Hmmmmm . . . future hummus treats???
All is well, and recommending the pitas & hummus, in Drosche Land.
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
The Road to Recovery
What??? Can it be??? A second post today??? Well, calm right down because it's true! Here I am again! In fact I have post topics racing through my mind so there might even be a third! Calm down, I said "might". We'll see how the night progresses. Onto the topic at hand.
So, today officially began recovery for Amy. I'll be honest, the day did not start off great. Not at all. First of all, I for one forgot that you don't actually get to sleep really in a hospital. Between someone constantly coming it and the uncomfortable sleeping quarters (guest fold-out chair & patient bed included) it can be difficult. But when you're both physically and emotionally exhausted you find a way and that is what I did. Amy, on the other hand, had an even more restless night than I did (duh!). But we made it through the night and into the morning. Last night around 10:00 (yeah, that's also something about the hospital - there is no concept of time anymore) the nurse finally came to help Amy get up and start walking. It was a no-go. She was able to sit up before becoming extremely pale and stating that she was being overcome by extreme nausea. "Baby steps" I reassuringly (or tried to be) told her.
This morning around 8:00 is was time for her upper GI test. Amy was still quite lethargic, weak, and nauseous so we were very leery of how this would go. She couldn't muster up enough energy or stomach will power to sit in a wheelchair for the trip down to radiology so they got her onto a stretcher for the ride. Once we got there we were both a bit confused/alarmed by how well the other bariatric patients were doing. They were in wheelchairs and were chatty and seemed to be doing well. Amy was pale, flat on her back, and very weak. Hmmmm??? Something wasn't right. However, with much prayer and kindness from the assistants, she was able to drink the barium mixture and stand for the x-rays. Pleased with this small victory it was back to the stretcher and back to the room.
Upon returning to the room we were greeted by an angel. Well, she was to us. She was actually Amy's nurse for today - Staci. She was amazing. She helped us realize what we had been wondering - the morphine was most likely causing Amy the problems she was having. So we stopped that and she gave her some nausea medicines. Turns out Staci had a bariatric procedure done herself here about 10 months ago. She looked great! She talked with Amy and related with her about how she was feeling because she had actually been there herself. It was great. She brightened our day and continued to so so. Sadly, as I'm writing this her shift is ending and we are getting a new nurse whom we have yet to meet. But alas, Staci will be back tomorrow morning!
So, quitting the morphine did the trick and Amy perked up quite well after a nice nap. The results of the GI came back and all is great, everything is connected properly and working well! This meant that the catheter could be removed and she could progress onto a clear liquid diet! Decaf tea for lunch and a sugar-free grape popsicle for dinner! She was quite pleased with the latter and thoroughly enjoyed it. She has gotten better as the day has gone one, more herself. She still has some pain (duh!) but she says she is mostly super tired. She has been up and walking around very well and is in great spirits.
So, the day began a rough but has taken a complete 180! Day 1 of recovery is down and tomorrow we will be able to go home. Another good part about today was Amy did get some visitors. Pastor Black from Trinity came and that was great, Suzanne Kurth (another Trinity member and co-worker came with a goodie bag, and Amy's mom made it by on her lunch break. Those little diversions were great and much appreciated! THANKS! We are just ending the night quietly enjoying the cable (WOO HOO!) and listening to the rain outside. Thanks again to all of our fantastic and invaluable family and friends for all of your prayers, kind words, and support! :)
All is well, and blazing down this new road now, in Drosche Land.
So, today officially began recovery for Amy. I'll be honest, the day did not start off great. Not at all. First of all, I for one forgot that you don't actually get to sleep really in a hospital. Between someone constantly coming it and the uncomfortable sleeping quarters (guest fold-out chair & patient bed included) it can be difficult. But when you're both physically and emotionally exhausted you find a way and that is what I did. Amy, on the other hand, had an even more restless night than I did (duh!). But we made it through the night and into the morning. Last night around 10:00 (yeah, that's also something about the hospital - there is no concept of time anymore) the nurse finally came to help Amy get up and start walking. It was a no-go. She was able to sit up before becoming extremely pale and stating that she was being overcome by extreme nausea. "Baby steps" I reassuringly (or tried to be) told her.
This morning around 8:00 is was time for her upper GI test. Amy was still quite lethargic, weak, and nauseous so we were very leery of how this would go. She couldn't muster up enough energy or stomach will power to sit in a wheelchair for the trip down to radiology so they got her onto a stretcher for the ride. Once we got there we were both a bit confused/alarmed by how well the other bariatric patients were doing. They were in wheelchairs and were chatty and seemed to be doing well. Amy was pale, flat on her back, and very weak. Hmmmm??? Something wasn't right. However, with much prayer and kindness from the assistants, she was able to drink the barium mixture and stand for the x-rays. Pleased with this small victory it was back to the stretcher and back to the room.
Upon returning to the room we were greeted by an angel. Well, she was to us. She was actually Amy's nurse for today - Staci. She was amazing. She helped us realize what we had been wondering - the morphine was most likely causing Amy the problems she was having. So we stopped that and she gave her some nausea medicines. Turns out Staci had a bariatric procedure done herself here about 10 months ago. She looked great! She talked with Amy and related with her about how she was feeling because she had actually been there herself. It was great. She brightened our day and continued to so so. Sadly, as I'm writing this her shift is ending and we are getting a new nurse whom we have yet to meet. But alas, Staci will be back tomorrow morning!
So, quitting the morphine did the trick and Amy perked up quite well after a nice nap. The results of the GI came back and all is great, everything is connected properly and working well! This meant that the catheter could be removed and she could progress onto a clear liquid diet! Decaf tea for lunch and a sugar-free grape popsicle for dinner! She was quite pleased with the latter and thoroughly enjoyed it. She has gotten better as the day has gone one, more herself. She still has some pain (duh!) but she says she is mostly super tired. She has been up and walking around very well and is in great spirits.
So, the day began a rough but has taken a complete 180! Day 1 of recovery is down and tomorrow we will be able to go home. Another good part about today was Amy did get some visitors. Pastor Black from Trinity came and that was great, Suzanne Kurth (another Trinity member and co-worker came with a goodie bag, and Amy's mom made it by on her lunch break. Those little diversions were great and much appreciated! THANKS! We are just ending the night quietly enjoying the cable (WOO HOO!) and listening to the rain outside. Thanks again to all of our fantastic and invaluable family and friends for all of your prayers, kind words, and support! :)
All is well, and blazing down this new road now, in Drosche Land.
Cafeteria Reflections
Well, clearly with Amy in the hospital my food choices have been quite limited. Yes I know what you're thinking - "But isn't Amy at Memorial Hermann - Memorial City, right across from the mall?". Well, yes that is true. Now you're thinking - "Then why don't you just go take advantage of the Food Court?". I know I could but seriously that is a long way! Frankly I don't want to leave Amy alone for too long and the walk to the mall is super crazy long. Even more frankly I can sometimes have a tendency toward laziness! I know you're shocked, close your mouth. Plus I also know what you are now thinking - "Then DRIVE!". Yes, but that would mean giving up a decent parking spot in the garage AND having to hunt and compete for another one. Plus once all is said and done even driving, parking, getting food, driving, and parking again would take forever! Remember my not wanting to leave Amy (and the laziness)? So, thus you understand the limited food choices I was mentioning earlier.
Now that you're nodding your head in understanding and agreement I will proceed with the post title. First of all I have to say that the hospital's cafeteria food is actually not that bad. Seriously. Stop laughing, it's not. In fact it reminds me of the cafeteria at college, only better. Those of you who went to CUA probably just shuddered at the thought of the Texas (Toxic) Hall food of our college years. Me too. Anyway, the food's not all that bad. However, it is slightly (very much so) over priced, for some items at least. For lunch yesterday, I paid a trip to the salad bar in hopes of eating a bit healthy. Nearly $7 later I had an average salad with some pretty decent couscous. It seemed innocent enough at $.40/oz. but apparently despite the fact that I teach my kids weights and measurements I clearly do not possess the ability to judge them very well. So my first experience wasn't great. But I made a healthy choice which left both myself and my wallet lighter.
Dinner was better, although I have to say I almost didn't get any. Remember my not wanting to leave Amy for long (not the laziness too, not at this point at least)? Well, by the time she woke up enough to talk it was 7:45. Lucky for me the first thing she asked was what had I eaten. She then told me to go get food. Good thing too because the cafeteria closes at 8:00. This obviously means they stop cooking and start cleaning well before this. I'll give you a minute to make a mental not of this should you ever come here ... okay, good. Well, all that was left was pre-made salads, pitas & hummus, and pre-packaged snack foods. I grabbed a chef's salad and the hummus and made my way back to Amy's room. The salad was basic but good, lettuce, cheese, tomato, ham, and turkey. Nothing flashy, but okay. The hummus however was great. I know, who'd have though right?! Me neither but I highly recommend it if you are ever here! Make note! Seriously - GET THE HUMMUS!
Lunch today brought baked potatoes at the salad bar. I was wary due to my lack of good judgment regarding the weight of a salad much less a potato, but I like to walk on the wild side so I went for it. It ended up being cheaper than my salad, and quite good despite the disappointing lack of Bacos. How can you have a baked potato without chemically-engineered, bacon-flavored stuff? But I did and it was okay. They also have the little plastic containers of cereal! This excites me (nerd alert) because I love those things. So I got some Raisin Bran (my inner senior citizen was ecstatic at this choice). All in all good.
So, 4-star dining? Um, no, have you been reading this post? But it is better than can be expected and satisfying. My dorky, senior citizen choice making self has been pleased! I honestly have to have another nerd alert moment and admit that I'm kind of looking forward to what they are offering for dinner tonight! Don't worry, I won't leave you hanging, I'll tell you later! :)
All is well, and satiated, in Drosche Land.
Now that you're nodding your head in understanding and agreement I will proceed with the post title. First of all I have to say that the hospital's cafeteria food is actually not that bad. Seriously. Stop laughing, it's not. In fact it reminds me of the cafeteria at college, only better. Those of you who went to CUA probably just shuddered at the thought of the Texas (Toxic) Hall food of our college years. Me too. Anyway, the food's not all that bad. However, it is slightly (very much so) over priced, for some items at least. For lunch yesterday, I paid a trip to the salad bar in hopes of eating a bit healthy. Nearly $7 later I had an average salad with some pretty decent couscous. It seemed innocent enough at $.40/oz. but apparently despite the fact that I teach my kids weights and measurements I clearly do not possess the ability to judge them very well. So my first experience wasn't great. But I made a healthy choice which left both myself and my wallet lighter.
Dinner was better, although I have to say I almost didn't get any. Remember my not wanting to leave Amy for long (not the laziness too, not at this point at least)? Well, by the time she woke up enough to talk it was 7:45. Lucky for me the first thing she asked was what had I eaten. She then told me to go get food. Good thing too because the cafeteria closes at 8:00. This obviously means they stop cooking and start cleaning well before this. I'll give you a minute to make a mental not of this should you ever come here ... okay, good. Well, all that was left was pre-made salads, pitas & hummus, and pre-packaged snack foods. I grabbed a chef's salad and the hummus and made my way back to Amy's room. The salad was basic but good, lettuce, cheese, tomato, ham, and turkey. Nothing flashy, but okay. The hummus however was great. I know, who'd have though right?! Me neither but I highly recommend it if you are ever here! Make note! Seriously - GET THE HUMMUS!
Lunch today brought baked potatoes at the salad bar. I was wary due to my lack of good judgment regarding the weight of a salad much less a potato, but I like to walk on the wild side so I went for it. It ended up being cheaper than my salad, and quite good despite the disappointing lack of Bacos. How can you have a baked potato without chemically-engineered, bacon-flavored stuff? But I did and it was okay. They also have the little plastic containers of cereal! This excites me (nerd alert) because I love those things. So I got some Raisin Bran (my inner senior citizen was ecstatic at this choice). All in all good.
So, 4-star dining? Um, no, have you been reading this post? But it is better than can be expected and satisfying. My dorky, senior citizen choice making self has been pleased! I honestly have to have another nerd alert moment and admit that I'm kind of looking forward to what they are offering for dinner tonight! Don't worry, I won't leave you hanging, I'll tell you later! :)
All is well, and satiated, in Drosche Land.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
The Big Day
Well, as I write this I'm in Amy's hospital room and she is sleeping. She should be for a while too due to the pain and anti-nausea medicines they gave her. The anesthesia in surgery always makes her sick so that was one of our biggest worries going in to the surgery. But she informed the nurses and they gave her 3, yes 3!, anti-nausea medicines during the surgery and an additional 2 doses afterward and all is well on that front. Even simple anti-nausea medicines tend to make her drowsy so I'm assuming she is going to get a nice, long (and much-needed) sleep from what she has received today.
All went well this morning. Luckily Braeden didn't have any more problems with being upset this morning and it was actually quite easy to drop them off at school this morning (the first of many answered prayers today)! After that we came to the hospital a little early, after a quick stop by Starbucks. On a side note I sampled their new Via instant iced coffee - not bad at all! But it does have 50 calories per serving and I like my coffee calorie-free so we'll see if I get any. But my iced coffee this morning was awesome! But I digress.
Anyway. They called her back for Pre-Op right on time at 10:00 and I waited and passed the time by reading (Stephen King's Cell ((AWESOME)). Then at 11:00 they called me back to sit with her in the holding area until it was time for her surgery. This was good because we got to talk and relax which eased her mind. Then they took her down for her surgery at about 12:40.
I headed to the cafeteria for lunch (an ok yet over-priced trip to the salad bar) where a good friend surprised me and passed the time with me (THANKS MELANIE!). Then I went and got my laptop from the car and went to get some homework done in the Waiting Room while I waited (there's that word again!) to hear more. Amanda came and sat with me when she got off of work (THANKS!) but the doctor never did come and find me. I kept checking the board for her status (pretty cool - think the arrivals/departures board at the airport - kinda like that). Then after a long while of waiting the receptionist called and told me what room she would be in and we headed there. More waiting, 30 minutes, and she was brought into the room.
Well, that brings us current on today's adventures. Amy, of course, is still sleeping and I am blogging and manning the Facebook and text lines here at command central. I need to head home to let Lucy out and pick up Amy's blood pressure medicine and my dinner, but I'm not going to leave until she wakes up.
All in all it went very well. I, and I know Amy for sure, am just glad that it is all finally done. Now we can begin the next journey here in Drosche Land. Thanks to everyone for their prayers, well wishes, and thoughts. I will speak for Amy right now and say that they meant A LOT to her and made today easier! Thanks from me as well! We have the best family and friends we could ask for!
All is well, in a temporarily relocated, Drosche Land.
All went well this morning. Luckily Braeden didn't have any more problems with being upset this morning and it was actually quite easy to drop them off at school this morning (the first of many answered prayers today)! After that we came to the hospital a little early, after a quick stop by Starbucks. On a side note I sampled their new Via instant iced coffee - not bad at all! But it does have 50 calories per serving and I like my coffee calorie-free so we'll see if I get any. But my iced coffee this morning was awesome! But I digress.
Anyway. They called her back for Pre-Op right on time at 10:00 and I waited and passed the time by reading (Stephen King's Cell ((AWESOME)). Then at 11:00 they called me back to sit with her in the holding area until it was time for her surgery. This was good because we got to talk and relax which eased her mind. Then they took her down for her surgery at about 12:40.
I headed to the cafeteria for lunch (an ok yet over-priced trip to the salad bar) where a good friend surprised me and passed the time with me (THANKS MELANIE!). Then I went and got my laptop from the car and went to get some homework done in the Waiting Room while I waited (there's that word again!) to hear more. Amanda came and sat with me when she got off of work (THANKS!) but the doctor never did come and find me. I kept checking the board for her status (pretty cool - think the arrivals/departures board at the airport - kinda like that). Then after a long while of waiting the receptionist called and told me what room she would be in and we headed there. More waiting, 30 minutes, and she was brought into the room.
Well, that brings us current on today's adventures. Amy, of course, is still sleeping and I am blogging and manning the Facebook and text lines here at command central. I need to head home to let Lucy out and pick up Amy's blood pressure medicine and my dinner, but I'm not going to leave until she wakes up.
All in all it went very well. I, and I know Amy for sure, am just glad that it is all finally done. Now we can begin the next journey here in Drosche Land. Thanks to everyone for their prayers, well wishes, and thoughts. I will speak for Amy right now and say that they meant A LOT to her and made today easier! Thanks from me as well! We have the best family and friends we could ask for!
All is well, in a temporarily relocated, Drosche Land.
Monday, July 05, 2010
Almost Time
Today marked the last day before Amy's surgery. Needless to say everyone in Drosche Land is experiencing a variety of emotions. No one is safe, not even the dog! It has been a rough week for Amy, truth be told. Once the excitement of the surgery date had worn off the realization of a week-long fast set in. I can't even begin to imagine how hard it is to not eat food when everyone else around you is eating, especially over a holiday weekend where great food is abundant. But she has done very well. Ironically today was the best day yet. Between having gotten used to the eating and knowing that tomorrow is the big day, it was much easier on her. She didn't experience nearly the amount of nausea and exhaustion as in the previous few days. However, it wasn't without it's struggles. The worst of which just happened at bedtime.
We are well aware of Braeden's emotions and the way he handles them. I can't complain or talk any because he takes after me completely. As I was getting Jack into the bath Braeden was with Amy, crying about how he was nervous that she would need to stay in the hospital for a "long long time". After some reassuring and hugs he was fine enough to brush teeth, take a bath, and get his jammies on. Then it hit again right after bedtime prayers. He is just genuinely sad and nervous about it. A bundle of teary emotions. He quickly settled down though after promises of calls from Mommy and Daddy and the fact that he would get to visit her in the hospital. He is at that age where he understands a lot of what goes on and yet he is still just 4. This came through all too clearly tonight.
Jack on the other hand has been okay. Maybe it's his age sheltering him from the feelings Braeden is having. Maybe it's just his personality. Whatever, he has spent the day completely being Jack! This is quite beneficial because he is such a ham and is always going for a laugh, a much-appreciated character trait during the tenseness of the past few hours and days.
As previously mentioned even Lucy is having a rough time. She spent the majority of her day curled up next to Amy as close as she could get. She has always been that way when one of us is sick, hurt, or sad. She truly is a mother-hen and always is concerned about taking care of her people!
Me? I'm ok. Nervous - yes. Excited - yes. Tomorrow is the day that Amy and I (of course mostly Amy obviously) have been preparing for since late November. Of course it doesn't mean that this adventure is ending. Not at all. In a way it is actually just changing, almost a new adventure. The coming weeks will prove to be difficult and exciting, just as these past weeks have been. But we have so many family and friends out there praying for and rooting for us, Amy in particular. All will be fine, I know it. So we proceed, leaning on each other for support. Along with, of course, prayer, family, and friends. Ready for the first step of the next adventure in Drosche Land.
All is well, hoping for peaceful sleep for us all, in Drosche Land.
We are well aware of Braeden's emotions and the way he handles them. I can't complain or talk any because he takes after me completely. As I was getting Jack into the bath Braeden was with Amy, crying about how he was nervous that she would need to stay in the hospital for a "long long time". After some reassuring and hugs he was fine enough to brush teeth, take a bath, and get his jammies on. Then it hit again right after bedtime prayers. He is just genuinely sad and nervous about it. A bundle of teary emotions. He quickly settled down though after promises of calls from Mommy and Daddy and the fact that he would get to visit her in the hospital. He is at that age where he understands a lot of what goes on and yet he is still just 4. This came through all too clearly tonight.
Jack on the other hand has been okay. Maybe it's his age sheltering him from the feelings Braeden is having. Maybe it's just his personality. Whatever, he has spent the day completely being Jack! This is quite beneficial because he is such a ham and is always going for a laugh, a much-appreciated character trait during the tenseness of the past few hours and days.
As previously mentioned even Lucy is having a rough time. She spent the majority of her day curled up next to Amy as close as she could get. She has always been that way when one of us is sick, hurt, or sad. She truly is a mother-hen and always is concerned about taking care of her people!
Me? I'm ok. Nervous - yes. Excited - yes. Tomorrow is the day that Amy and I (of course mostly Amy obviously) have been preparing for since late November. Of course it doesn't mean that this adventure is ending. Not at all. In a way it is actually just changing, almost a new adventure. The coming weeks will prove to be difficult and exciting, just as these past weeks have been. But we have so many family and friends out there praying for and rooting for us, Amy in particular. All will be fine, I know it. So we proceed, leaning on each other for support. Along with, of course, prayer, family, and friends. Ready for the first step of the next adventure in Drosche Land.
All is well, hoping for peaceful sleep for us all, in Drosche Land.
Friday, July 02, 2010
Big Changes
Well, yesterday we received some great news here in Drosche Land. Amy found out that her gastric bypass surgery could be scheduled for next Tuesday, July 6th! This is the moment we have been waiting for since December! The long journey is almost over, and another is just ready to begin.
In early December Amy began researching the Lap-Band procedure as a way to lose weight. This is something she has struggled with her entire life and nothing has seemed to work or bring lasting results. As with anything she is passionate about she began extensive research and we discussed it at length. We decided this seemed like something she should explore so she went to a seminar here at Memorial Hermann - Memorial City. This seminar would be given by Dr. Robert Davis of the Davis Clinic here in Houston. He is actually one of the best bariatric surgeons in the nation and it actually featured on the TLC show Big Medicine.
After the meeting Amy came home with some conflicts. Dr. Davis actually recommended gastric bypass surgery over th Lap-Band system. So now we were confused as we had previously ruled this procedure out because it seemed too extreme. However, upon lots more discussion, prayer, research, and thinking about it we decided that the gastric bypass option was the best one for Amy. She moved onto the next step - insurance. The good news was that it was covered, 100%, by our insurance (with surgery costs of course)! The bad news was that our insurance required 6 months of nutritionist appointments and dieting rather than the typical 3 months. Beggars can't be choosers though so Amy proceeded with the process. It actually worked out better for us this way anyway since the 6 months would be up over the summer - the perfect time to schedule the surgery and subsequent time off.
Flash forward to June. Amy has her last nutritionist appointment and her paperwork is sent off to insurance for approval. Then that ugly "w" word (waiting) began. It was hard to be patient, especially for Amy, but we did. The worst part about the waiting was the fact that the longer we had to wait, the further into July the surgery would be pushed - too close to the start of the new school year for our comfort! But once again, beggars can't be choosers. Then finally, after over a week of waiting, Amy got her insurance approval on Monday! Now the waiting game shifted to that of a scheduled surgery date. We were well aware that we would most likely have to schedule for the last week in July or the first in August due to the fact that we are in Dallas twice in July - once for a conference and once for Lady Gaga! Again, not the ideal situation but there was little we could do about it. Then totally by surprise Amy receives her call from the Davis Clinic yesterday with amazing news - there had been a cancellation for July 6th! They checked with Dr. Davis and she was approved for that date! It means only one week of the liquid diet to prep rather than the initial 2-week period we thought she would have to take, but that is not a problem at all because she has lost some weight in preparation for the surgery. The funny thing is that July 6th was actually the exact date we had been hoping for since her final nutritionist appointment. It was the "perfect" date because it gave her time for recovery before the Dallas trips and time to take off while still returning to work well before the start of the new school year. Crazy huh?! You've gotta laugh at God's plans sometimes, he truly does know what is best for us despite out interventions to get done what we feel is best for us. He taught us a lot of patience during the waiting period and we were able to talk, think, and pray a lot about what is in store for our family over the next 12-18 months post-surgery. Guess he really does work in mysterious, and often comical, ways!
So, we (namely Amy) are ready to embark on a life (mainly Amy's) changing adventure here in Drosche Land! It won't be easy, we are well aware of that, but we are very excited about everything that is yet to come. Amy, and I firmly support her, has made this decision both for herself and for her family. She is putting her health first and foremost and in doing so is ensuring that her family will enjoy the wonder that is Amy for many more years to come. We truly believe that the positive health benefits far outweigh the potential risks of the surgery. This doesn't mean that we (I) aren't worried and nervous about the surgery. Amy is also very excited, although admittedly nervous, and has already begun purging her closet (2 bags full) of clothing she will NEVER need again! She is, of course, most excited about the end result of the surgery, even if that is still a while away! There are risks, as there are with any surgery, elective or not. But we go forth with confidence and prayer as we have done thus far throughout this entire adventure. Now that the news has been confirmed and we have officially put it out there publicly with family and friends I will continue to blog about it as we experience the next adventure!
All is well, both excited & nervous about the surgery, here in Drosche Land.
In early December Amy began researching the Lap-Band procedure as a way to lose weight. This is something she has struggled with her entire life and nothing has seemed to work or bring lasting results. As with anything she is passionate about she began extensive research and we discussed it at length. We decided this seemed like something she should explore so she went to a seminar here at Memorial Hermann - Memorial City. This seminar would be given by Dr. Robert Davis of the Davis Clinic here in Houston. He is actually one of the best bariatric surgeons in the nation and it actually featured on the TLC show Big Medicine.
After the meeting Amy came home with some conflicts. Dr. Davis actually recommended gastric bypass surgery over th Lap-Band system. So now we were confused as we had previously ruled this procedure out because it seemed too extreme. However, upon lots more discussion, prayer, research, and thinking about it we decided that the gastric bypass option was the best one for Amy. She moved onto the next step - insurance. The good news was that it was covered, 100%, by our insurance (with surgery costs of course)! The bad news was that our insurance required 6 months of nutritionist appointments and dieting rather than the typical 3 months. Beggars can't be choosers though so Amy proceeded with the process. It actually worked out better for us this way anyway since the 6 months would be up over the summer - the perfect time to schedule the surgery and subsequent time off.
Flash forward to June. Amy has her last nutritionist appointment and her paperwork is sent off to insurance for approval. Then that ugly "w" word (waiting) began. It was hard to be patient, especially for Amy, but we did. The worst part about the waiting was the fact that the longer we had to wait, the further into July the surgery would be pushed - too close to the start of the new school year for our comfort! But once again, beggars can't be choosers. Then finally, after over a week of waiting, Amy got her insurance approval on Monday! Now the waiting game shifted to that of a scheduled surgery date. We were well aware that we would most likely have to schedule for the last week in July or the first in August due to the fact that we are in Dallas twice in July - once for a conference and once for Lady Gaga! Again, not the ideal situation but there was little we could do about it. Then totally by surprise Amy receives her call from the Davis Clinic yesterday with amazing news - there had been a cancellation for July 6th! They checked with Dr. Davis and she was approved for that date! It means only one week of the liquid diet to prep rather than the initial 2-week period we thought she would have to take, but that is not a problem at all because she has lost some weight in preparation for the surgery. The funny thing is that July 6th was actually the exact date we had been hoping for since her final nutritionist appointment. It was the "perfect" date because it gave her time for recovery before the Dallas trips and time to take off while still returning to work well before the start of the new school year. Crazy huh?! You've gotta laugh at God's plans sometimes, he truly does know what is best for us despite out interventions to get done what we feel is best for us. He taught us a lot of patience during the waiting period and we were able to talk, think, and pray a lot about what is in store for our family over the next 12-18 months post-surgery. Guess he really does work in mysterious, and often comical, ways!
So, we (namely Amy) are ready to embark on a life (mainly Amy's) changing adventure here in Drosche Land! It won't be easy, we are well aware of that, but we are very excited about everything that is yet to come. Amy, and I firmly support her, has made this decision both for herself and for her family. She is putting her health first and foremost and in doing so is ensuring that her family will enjoy the wonder that is Amy for many more years to come. We truly believe that the positive health benefits far outweigh the potential risks of the surgery. This doesn't mean that we (I) aren't worried and nervous about the surgery. Amy is also very excited, although admittedly nervous, and has already begun purging her closet (2 bags full) of clothing she will NEVER need again! She is, of course, most excited about the end result of the surgery, even if that is still a while away! There are risks, as there are with any surgery, elective or not. But we go forth with confidence and prayer as we have done thus far throughout this entire adventure. Now that the news has been confirmed and we have officially put it out there publicly with family and friends I will continue to blog about it as we experience the next adventure!
All is well, both excited & nervous about the surgery, here in Drosche Land.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Lockdown
Well, it's always an adventure here in Drosche Land and yesterday the boys and I had another brief one. Yes, I know by posting this I will be opening myself to admitting a lapse in parenting/thinking on my part, but all is well and looking back on it I find it quite funny! Anyway, onto the story.
So it was gloomy all morning and I wasn't sure if the boys would get to splash or not. However, as has been the case with the weather here in Cypress lately, there was no rain by 10:00. So I quickly began setup before Alex decided to send rain our way. Being a good parent I called the boys down once everything was ready to put on their swimsuits and sunscreen (it was extremely overcast, but better safe than sorry!). Braeden was eager to get out and go, Jack however had suddenly gotten into one of his moods and refused to suit up, insisting he didn't want to swim. So, outside Braeden and I went, ready to splash around in the cloudy and windy weather!
Jack stood at the back door the entire time watching us. From time to time I would motion to him and ask if he wanted to join us. Still in his mood, he would just turn away from me. I forget why, but I went to head inside for something. The doorknob wouldn't turn! Jack had locked us out of the house! I yelled, "YOU LOCKED THE DOOR!" and I swear to you, he just smiled slyly at me! I started hollering at him to unlock the door, pointing to where the lock was. Finally he reached up and turned the lock and I burst in the door. It couldn't have been more than 2 minutes that I was locked out, but it seemed like an eternity.
Once inside I firmly told Jack that he was to NEVER touch the locks on the doors ever again. It was clear from his reaction that he didn't understand the gravity of everything that had just happened so he didn't receive any spanking or punishment other than the discussion. After we had calmed down and hugged it out, Jack changed his mind about splashing and we all went back outside to enjoy ourselves.
So, all's well that ends well. Everyone is safe and sound. Lessons have been learned, myself included (keys will be coming out to splash from now on!). I'm truly just glad I did not have to break a window. That would have sucked! Well, there it is, my lapse exposed. Think what you will, I personally find it comical. Jack always has been, and apparently always will be, a handful! This incident is just one in a long line of his mischievousness, all of which I'm sure I will look back upon and laugh in the future!
All is well, extra keys on hand, in Drosche Land.
So it was gloomy all morning and I wasn't sure if the boys would get to splash or not. However, as has been the case with the weather here in Cypress lately, there was no rain by 10:00. So I quickly began setup before Alex decided to send rain our way. Being a good parent I called the boys down once everything was ready to put on their swimsuits and sunscreen (it was extremely overcast, but better safe than sorry!). Braeden was eager to get out and go, Jack however had suddenly gotten into one of his moods and refused to suit up, insisting he didn't want to swim. So, outside Braeden and I went, ready to splash around in the cloudy and windy weather!
Jack stood at the back door the entire time watching us. From time to time I would motion to him and ask if he wanted to join us. Still in his mood, he would just turn away from me. I forget why, but I went to head inside for something. The doorknob wouldn't turn! Jack had locked us out of the house! I yelled, "YOU LOCKED THE DOOR!" and I swear to you, he just smiled slyly at me! I started hollering at him to unlock the door, pointing to where the lock was. Finally he reached up and turned the lock and I burst in the door. It couldn't have been more than 2 minutes that I was locked out, but it seemed like an eternity.
Once inside I firmly told Jack that he was to NEVER touch the locks on the doors ever again. It was clear from his reaction that he didn't understand the gravity of everything that had just happened so he didn't receive any spanking or punishment other than the discussion. After we had calmed down and hugged it out, Jack changed his mind about splashing and we all went back outside to enjoy ourselves.
So, all's well that ends well. Everyone is safe and sound. Lessons have been learned, myself included (keys will be coming out to splash from now on!). I'm truly just glad I did not have to break a window. That would have sucked! Well, there it is, my lapse exposed. Think what you will, I personally find it comical. Jack always has been, and apparently always will be, a handful! This incident is just one in a long line of his mischievousness, all of which I'm sure I will look back upon and laugh in the future!
All is well, extra keys on hand, in Drosche Land.
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