TUBES!

Today, Joseph and I walked into the Lake Surgery Center at 5:45am to get our appointment for Ear Tubes started.  Joseph has had several ear infections since birth, so we knew it was only a matter of time before the yucky stuff from allergies, colds, etc. would have to find its way out of the ears with some assistance.   

With matching name bracelets (mine on my wrist and his around his ankle), Joseph and I stayed in the Pre-Op room long enough for me to answer the typical questions of "when did he last eat," etc.  Remembering the procedure when Jacob had to do it on March 19, 2009, I knew what to expect. Regardless of my veteran status, I found a lump in my throat the minute the blue ladies drew the curtain back.  There, they stood:  the two nurses, fully clothed from head to feet in their blue scrubs.  I already knew the answer, but found myself still asking them the question, "Are you here to take my baby?" Yes, yes, they were there to take him, and they would be there to assist with the anesthesia and the procedure. Joseph didn't know who they were, but he wasn't too sure about what was happening!

While Joseph and his blue "friends" walked into the OR, I walked in the opposite direction into the waiting room where my momma was. There, we waited all of 15 minutes before the doctor was ready to see me.  He spoke about the procedure and how well it went and how swollen his eardrums were:  clearly double ear infection was present, clearly we had made the right decision to do this.

As soon as we were done with the details of the procedure, we had to go to Recovery.  One of the nurses tried to explain to me where I could find my son.  I didn't need her...I heard him screaming the minute I turned the corner. Inconsolable Joe was in the arms of a nurse who was doing her best to try to calm him down while keeping her balance. She couldn't do it...neither could I.  Poor Joe wanted away from the Recovery Room, away from the Blue Ladies, away from the smells of the Surgery Center.  It wasn't until I eventually got him in the car, where Jacob's CARs CD was playing Jacob's favorite song "Real Gone" that Joe found comfort and closed his eyes.

After two naps at home, Joseph was back to normal...well, about 75%.  Now, I bet he can't wait for his brother and daddy to get home so he can hear exactly what they are supposed to sound like.  And, I'm sure, Joseph, Mr. Opinionated will find his voice more often now too! 

WAY TO GO, JOE!  We are proud of you!  
Joe Bouncing - Post Surgery