We're ready for surgery! ...well, physically, Gavin has been cleared. I must say that I never feel completely ready, however, I know that this will be good for him.

We spent the morning at the hospital doing pre-op: x-rays, bloodwork, meeting with the orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Deeney. This was the best he's ever performed for an x-ray. I have him trained to say "cheese" for "taking his picture". He actually seemed to enjoy that part. For the drawing of blood, however, I've never seen him go so immediately from happy to screaming. Wow, he's getting strong. Fortunately, the nurse was good and the first stick drew the needed blood.

A comparison of his x-ray, relative to changes since April 2007 (his first expansion surgery), indicates a persistant curvature of his spine, at 18%, a change from 6% four surgeries ago. By itself, 18% is not a concern, as this degree would not be treated. Dr. Deeney did note the condition as something to be aware of as we monitor the impact of the rods. The rod placement is still good, as the rings (attached at top and bottom on both sides) have not begun to slip or wear into the ribs. This risk is always closely monitored, as we expect that at some point they will begin to wear through, requiring that the rods be re-attached to another rib. Dr. Deeney expects to expand each rod 1 - 2 "notches", as there are 6 remaining on each side. (Each "notch" is 5mm, as I recall.)

Gavin is having a good day. Following the hospital visit, we went to ChicFilA, or "Siffaway" as Gavin calls it, to allow him play time. Tonight, we are planning to take him to the Mall play area, or "Aaweeuh", so he can have a little more fun. I really don't think he comprehends going into the hospital or having surgery, as I've explained to him. I feel so guilty this time, however, because he has become much more sensitive to dr. office visits, ie. the immediate reaction to a nurse sitting down an searching for a good place to get blood from him! Anyway, maybe the extra play time today will soothe my conscience.

I plan to post during, or at least post, surgery. We expect surgery to begin around 8:30am and last approximately 4 hours. Please pray that the surgery goes well, and that he feels as little pain possible.