Mary Clare’s surgery update

Mel, Mary Clare and I will travel down to MUSC on Friday morning for a pre-op day. They have told me to be prepared to stay for about 4-5 hours. (We’ll be back in Hartsville that afternoon) She will have blood work done, echo cardiograms, and EKGs before her surgery, which is scheduled for Monday morning. On Friday, we will find out exactly what time she will go in for surgery. Mel and I plan to drive down to Charleston on Sunday, meeting Mimi along the way to “deliver” McCanless for a fun trip to Daufuskie while we are at MUSC.

I’m having such mixed emotions about the surgery. I know it is absolutely necessary for her to sustain life, but at the same time, I know she faces all of the complications that come along with such a complex surgery. We knew this second surgery was coming, it just seemed to come so quickly. Just the thought of seeing her in PCICU again breaks my heart. She is doing so well right now that it is hard to believe that under her tiny chest, her heart still needs “to be fixed,” as I have been telling McCanless and myself. As every day approaches, and I find myself making the preparations of returning to MUSC, the reality of it all grows.

We are truly blessed to have Mary Clare in our lives and even more blessed that God has allowed us to care for her. It is such a comfort to know that we have so many people praying for her everyday, and we know that God is with her and will carry her through this next hurdle. She is so sweet and such an inspiration that I hope each and everyone of you that don’t already know her, will someday get a chance to meet her smiling face. Thank you for your continued support and prayers. On Monday, we’ll be in the PC-ICU waiting room and will keep you all updated. Please pray for our baby girl.

9 Comments

Kate  on November 27th, 2007

sweet Mary Clare! Kerri, I know in my heart she will do just fine! I can’t wait to hold her again! Love YOU (all) so very much!

Beverley Dodson  on November 27th, 2007

I appreciate and enjoy keeping up with all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Lee  on November 27th, 2007

Hang in there girl! My heart aches for you guys but I know she will do great! You know I am the “update police” so I’ll be checking in with you! Love you, Lee

LUCY MCCOY  on November 27th, 2007

KERRI AND MEL!

PETE AND I ARE KEEPING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS! GOD BLESS YOU! PETE AND LUCY MCCOY

Kathie Blackwell  on November 28th, 2007

Kerri & Mel, You will all be in our prayers. What a precious family you have. I know you are afraid. I relate so well to what you are going thru. Steph had a kidney removed at 4 months and chemo for 3 years. Watching your child suffer is the most painful emotion any parent will ever experience. I am sure Mary Clare will be fine just like Steph, who by the way is 36! God is great!!!!

Walter and Judy Brown  on November 28th, 2007

Dear Mel and Kerri,

We are so sorry that you all have to go through this all over again. During the first surgery, you inspired so many of us by the way you maintained your faith in God and drew strength and peace from Him. That same faith and that same God will bring you through again. All four of you and your families are in our prayers. We also pray for wisdom, guidance and compassion for all those intrusted with Mary Clare’s care.

God bless and keep all of you.

Sincerely, Judy

Alison Hiott Johanson  on November 28th, 2007

Hi- I am a friend of Mel’s from a long long time ago. I have been reading your blog about both of your girls and enjoy seeing all the pictures. I will definately be lifting Mary Clare up in prayer as well as the rest of your family!

George Atkins  on November 28th, 2007

Hey Mrs. P! You have been in my prayers. Hope to see u soon!

Kimberly  on November 28th, 2007

My eyes filled up with tears as I read this post, Kerri. I can’t even begin to imagine what you, as a Mom, must be feeling. You have been so strong and inspiring through all of this! I know that God will continue to bless Mary Clare and your family. Our love and prayers are with you all!