Wednesday, June 21, 2006

The Little Vampbaby that Could

"Clear".

I think that's my new favorite word.

It's the word that the surgeon spoke this afternoon after reviewing Vampbaby's second MRI, where Mr. Tumor was nowhere to be found. There might be little tiny bits beyond the MRI's scope in there, but those should be eradicated with medicinal treatment as opposed to further surgery. The identity of our unwelcome guest remains a mystery, and now scientists from all over the country are examining what came out of my son's head. It could be a week or so before the "big reveal", but whatever it is, it no longer will play "shock the baby" on my son.

This big news capped a quite, calm day of healing that has seen our son rebound in a way that I can't even believe. While some weakness showed up on his left side this morning due to the post-operative brain swelling (which is expected), it seemed to take a hike by late afternoon, when we set him on the ground for the first time and held his hands as he took his first steps with an ease that took my breath away. We also "graduated" from the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) to the regular Pediatric wing -- which is full of toys and fun things to keep Vampbaby motivated to move (although, our new room is the size of a small walk-in closet, so said movement will be done in the common area of the wing).

Today was also a day to reflect, as I often do, on the flip side of the situation. There is no better time to discover the great joys that exist in life than during those times that seem so far removed from it. We discovered it today in the amazing stream of emails, phone calls, blog comments, prayers, meditations, drumming and other calls to the universe that friends, family, co-workers and complete strangers have sent our way. We found it in our son's steps, in the strength he showed when he lifted a heavy object with his weak hand, and the smiles that have started to come back. And we find it in the voice of the surgeon, who spoke my favorite new word.

As it stands right now, amazingly enough, we will most likely be going home on Friday to continue the healing (a tumor found, removed and recovered from in a work week -- who would have thought?!?). Friday morning we will work on the plans for returning to a sense of normalcy that, for several days now, we never thought we would see again. Then we will return to the "real world", still surrounded and benefiting from all of your kind words and energies.

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

We're elated that the happy little jester will be back home so quickly and that he is doing so well. We can't wait to see him soon.
-Jackie's Mom and Dad

Anonymous said...

Amazing....Declan's rebound, the medical team, care providers, close friends and most important, you and Mel. There is no greater love than a parent for a child. To watch them go through a difficult time tears at your heart. To see them come through it stronger than when they started makes you proud and love them even more. I love you guys.

Grandpa Bob

Anonymous said...

Keeping hope alive with love, prayer and an appreciation of hereditary stubbornness being put to good use. May events continue to unfold in ways which inspire awe and belief in miracles.

Uncle Craig

Anonymous said...

What great news! Wishing you all peace and a good journey home.

Robin & Ron

Anonymous said...

We were ecstatic when we heard about Vampbaby's recovery post-op, and we're even more thrilled to share in your new word "clear"! We continue to pray for more good news from the neuropathologist and are thinking about all three of you all day long. We'll see you all very soon.

Love,
Keith and Elise

Anonymous said...

Great news! I too had to deal with the brain tumor of a loved one so I know that it takes a lot of strength and faith to carry you thru. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, especially Declan. May he have a full and speedy recovery.

Larry A (from LGM class)

Anonymous said...

Mel and Tym
That is wonderful! I am so happy things went so well! Sending my good thoughts,
Jocelyn

Anonymous said...

So relieved to hear that everything turned out for the best. Nothing like a good scare to put some perspective on life. Anyway, all my best to the Vamp Family. Glad to hear the good news.

Anonymous said...

We are so happy and thankful that everything is working out as well as it is. Every thought of Declan is followed by a prayer of asking and of thanks andd praise.

Love, Aunt Pauline & Uncle Ray

Anonymous said...

We are so happy to hear the good news. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Declan for a quick recovery... There is so much for little ones to do during the summer....
Love Ann and all here at DPHS

Anonymous said...

Way to go Dec! I can't tell you how happy and relieved my parents and I are to hear that you're coming home.

Now hurry up so we can play again! I really miss you and can't wait to see you again!

Love,
Kate

Anonymous said...

Hi Mel & Tym,

I've been thinking and praying for you and your little Declan. He's a special, sweet, lovely, cuddley, adorable child. Not to mention, he has the best smile! I wish him a speedy recovery and I wish you all the best!!
Love,
Gisele & Brian

Anonymous said...

I'm so glad Declan is doing well. I wish you all the best through his recovery.