The Verdict: Surgery

Henry will need surgery. Because of his recent and quite severe UTI, the doctor wants to go in and reconstruct his internal kidney plumbing. It was not certain he would need surgery before, because he had never had an infection. But now, with his last trip to the emergency room -- his fate is certain. Into the operating room he will go.

We have known about Henry's unusual kidney set-up (4 compartments, 4 tubes) since before he was born. It showed-up on an ultrasound. When he was born, I was nervous because they were not sure if there would be other complications. He has been completely "normal" with no signs of any trouble until just a few weeks ago when his temperature reached 104.5 and he was totally lethargic. After a series of tests and an extremely expensive ER bill (I am working on changing my insurance coverage), they figured out it was indeed a urinary infection. I knew it was something more than what any of my other kids have experienced -- it just felt different.

Henry also has high blood pressure, because of his kidney issues. I will be going to another doctor to discuss what needs to be done to monitor/control that... the surgery should help remedy that issue as well.

Life is always full of excitement and often undesirable events. I suppose I could be totally bummed out about it, but that won't really help anything. Henry will need surgery, he will make it through, and he will be better off on the other end. I plan to just go through the motions, and do what needs to be done. I also plan to snuggle little Henry extra tight before, during, and after his surgery -- poor little baby. The thought of cutting him open makes me sick! Eek!

I will be spending a few days with him in the hospital (the same one Charles died in) while he has the operation, and heals on the other end of it. I imagine that will be an interesting event for us. I am sure Charles will be close during that time, watching over his son, and me! I will be needing his support! This event will happen in February 2015, unless he has another UTI before then. If he gets another infection it will need to be bumped up to a sooner date. Please pray he can remain infection free, so we can wait until February! I need a breather!

My mom and dad will be coming to help with the festivities, and the other children. My parents are amazingly awesome. When I called they said they would do whatever I needed, whenever I need it. It is a good thing they were called to serve in the Alaska temple presidency, instead of going overseas on a mission to New Zealand -- like they were originally planning on. I have certainly needed them. And they have been available every time I need them. Coincidence? I think not. 

You know, I have had better times in my life. This last year has really been something for our family. One for the books. I spent a good part of my day today taking care of many little "death details." It is a lot of work when someone dies. Especially when that someone was an attorney, with his own law firm. Sometimes I look at all the random paperwork and minuscule details and I long to live out in a cabin far away from everything. Customer service is becoming a joke too. I get so tired of talking to machines sending me here, there, and everywhere but where I need to be. Ugh.

Somehow, I wake-up each morning and keep breathing and living through another day. I am trying really hard to think less of the future and more of the now -- but that is easier said than done! I am learning, however, that you really just have to take life as it comes, and keep moving forward as best as you can, with what you have to work with. And give the rest to God.

One breath at a time...

Breathe, just breathe.

P.S. Thank you so much to the kind soul who sent that certified check awhile back. After getting all of the ER bills it was a much needed relief. God bless you, my friend. He knows who you are.