Success!

I'm typing this through teary eyes-- I do fine getting through surgery but post-surgery, I fall to pieces. No worries-- Kirsten and the four grandparents are doing great so I don't have much to worry about. Madeleine came through surgery like a trooper. She is in the NICU getting cleaned up right now but the surgeon spoke with us and was very happy with the outcome of the surgery. As we hoped, the intestines were only blocked at the ostomy and the surgeons simply clipped the end off and reattached the intestines to the rectum. This is great news because there was no guarantee that all of the intestines were intact-- we're obviously overjoyed. Additionally, the surgeon commented that Madeleine's rectum is long-- this will help long term as it will help with her ability to absorb water.

The immediate concern will be on eliminating any remaining infection. We've been told that the former ostomy site is likely to be infected (it may already be infected with all of the stool leaking in that area prior to surgery. Nevertheless, the infection should be localized and Madeleine is already on antibiotics that will help eliminate any remaining infection. Once we get past the infection concerns, we'll wait for her bowels to become active again. As with everything, timeframes are difficult to establish but we'll hope that within a week, Madeleine stools at least a little bit. The nurses will also focus on weaning her back off the vent and off of dopamine-- she's on a low level drip (I don't know the amount.) All in all, there are plenty of obstacles/challenges but this really feels like we've cleared a major hurdle... and despite the tears, it feels really good.

We'd be remiss if we didn't thank everyone for their tremendous support. We continue to be floored by all those that have expressed concern and have prayed for Madeleine's full recovery in the NICU. We simply can't thank you enough for this support. Please know how humbled we've been throughout these difficult weeks.

Please have a great weekend-- we're going to see Madeleine and once we're convinced she's stable, we're going to get out and enjoy the weather. It is absolutely beautiful outside.

Take care,

Brent and Kirsten