Inspiration from Claire

 
Here are the first three days worth of inspirational cards that Claire made for Eliza, starting with the day before surgery.  A good verse shared in yesterday’s card:
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self discipline.  2 Timothy 1:7.
And another from Isaiah, shared in a text from Pastor Chris:
Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.  They will walk and not faint.  They will run and not be weary. 

A Straighter Foot and Leg

Under this big dressing is a leg that is no longer twisted from the knee down and a foot in better alignment.  From the surgeon’s report, everything went really well and they were happy with the outcome of the ‘osteotomies’.  The surgery she had today included a tibial derotation osteotomy, a calcaneal lengthening, and a medial cuneiform osteotomy.  That basically means that they cut and turned her tibia to correct an abnormal twist, and realigned bones in her foot, creating a better arch and correcting a forefoot deformity.  Though there are still orthopedic concerns, we hope that this surgery will take care of the biggest problem she was dealing with over the past couple of years, severe foot pain.  Eliza perked up for a little while this evening and enjoyed visits with mom and dad and her grandparents.  After surgery pain control has been a challenge, but the fact that she is sleeping soundly right now must mean things are going better.  Thank you for the love, prayers, texts and calls, they really did make a difficult day more bearable.

Surgery Day

We feel all the love and prayers.  Eliza is calm and ready for what is ahead.  Thanks for all the support.  Our family and friends are the best!

Sisters

It was hard to say good bye to Claire, but she sent along great inspirational cards for everyday Eliza is in the hospital and then some.  I will share then with you too along the way, because I think they are great and uplifting for all of us. Shh… don’t tell Eliza yet :).   Love you Claire!

Nearly Ready

We had a beautiful drive across the UP yesterday.  The afternoon and evening were sunny and the fall colors are just beginning.  Here is a picture Eliza took of the sun setting over Lake Michigan along Highway 2 near Manistique.  Soon we’ll be on our way to St. Paul.  Surgery is scheduled for tomorrow at noon.