The Draz Fam

We got the word: we’re going home tomorrow. YIPPEE! Before Drew’s surgery we were warned that recovery would be difficult and that families often say that they would not have gone through with it had they known in advance all that it entailed. I admit that there is a long road ahead of us, but I am confident that we are up to it.
Wednesday was a recovery and learning day. Originally I had pictured us spending the next five weeks in Drew’s room. However, it turns out that we can transfer him to a reclining wheelchair. After we learned how to transfer him we headed down to a live dog show in the lobby of the hospital. It was quite a party as Claire, Anna, Tommy, Auntie Kirstin and Papa joined us for the show.

I admit that yesterday was difficult. First the epidural was removed. We then worked with the staff to determine the best meds to relieve Drew’s pain, including making a plan for the future. Next Drew received a steroid shot in his right knee. Despite the cream applied to numb the area, Drew was quite adamant that the shot was very unpleasant. Finally, his catheter was removed. In other words, Drew spent a good part of the day undergoing uncomfortable procedures, although he did enjoy visits from Claire and Aunt Dana.

Drew also enjoyed sharing the craft offering at the end of the day with cousin, Tommy. It was great to see him enjoying time with his cousin after the difficult day.

Today was much better. Drew felt quite comfortable, only occasionally complaining about pain. That meant he was able to enjoy his many visitors. First his homeschool teacher, Miss Gretchen, arrived. After reading about the dog show, she thoughtfully brought a fun dog project to share with Drew.

Next Uncle Mark arrived–with Caribou lattes for mom and nana. (Thanks, Mark!)

Then Claire arrived–with lunch for mom and nana. (Thanks, Claire!) Yes, we have been blessed with thoughtful friends and relatives throughout Drew’s hospital stay.
We spent much of the day learning about how to care for Drew during the next weeks. He must continue to be repositioned every two hours, around the clock. We much watch for skin breakdown, learn about his pain meds, his feeds, how to move him in his cast, which parts of his legs can be moved and which cannot. The list is long, but there is no question it will be worth it since the goal is for Drew to be pain free.

We’ve had the best medical care available this week. Also, the support and education the staff at Gillette has provided has been amazing. Although we can always check in with them, we’ll essentially be on our own beginning tomorrow. Please keep us in your thoughts as Drew continues his recovery at home.
Nana Barb