Surgery

Umbilical hernia. You learn a lot of medical terms being a mom to three little ones. This is what Caleb has. A small one that just appeared about a year ago. Usually a child is born with it and outgrows it by 4 years of age. Caleb had two inguinal hernia type occurrences as a toddler--both were repaired. I don't think it's coincidence that he is the one to develop an umbilical hernia.

We have met with his pediatrician and a general surgeon. Both said it would be wise to get it fixed sooner than later. Since baby Emily should be here in about 10 weeks, and life will become chaotic with a newborn, two boys in soccer and the regular craziness of a household of six, we decided now was as good a time as any. December 21st is the date. And Caleb is worried. We meet with a life specialist, at least I think that is what she is called, next week. She will answer his questions, show him around the recovery room, describe what will happen to him and how long he can expect to recover. I think it's really great that they offer this. The more information Caleb has, the better he seems to do. Now, if this were happening to Jake, I don't know if Jake would care. When Jake was transported in an ambulance after his first seizure, for example, I kept holding his hand and looking into his face to see if he was worried. Nope. Just looked around at all the stuff in the ambulance. "Do you want me to sing you a song, Jake?" "Uh, sure." As if to say, "Uh, sure, Mommy, if it makes you feel better."
And Jake also told me today, "If the doctor told me he was going to cut me open like Caleb, I would be really really mad at him." And furrowed his brow and clenched his fists. That's his way to solve most of his dilemmas, just show 'em who is boss and then he feels better.

But Caleb is much more sensitive and anxious. I wouldn't change him for anything and love that he is so aware of life, people and emotions, but it makes for several discussions and several reassuring incidences. At times I feel inadequate at being able to help soothe him. Almost like when he was a colicky baby. But I have found that when I just listen to my mommy instinct and hold him, we can get to a happier place a lot quicker. One thing that does not work is, "Try not to worry about it. It will be alright." Who really wants to hear that anyway?

I will try to post an update on operation day to let you know how it goes. It's a very minor surgery and he should be able to resume most activities the next day. Mike has the day off so it works out great scheduling wise.