Parker's getting surgery.

So, as most of you know I am a Pediatric ICU nurse at Johns Hopkins, and have been ultra paranoid about anything happening to Parker because of all the stuff I have seen. Well, Tuesday night, I was changing Parker's diaper and noticed a little swelling in his right groin. Having worked in the Pediatric operating room for 2 years before the ICU, I had seen my fair share of inguinal hernia repairs, and knew that was what I was looking at. ( an inguinal hernia is where part of the small intestine pushes through the inguinal ligament and the floor of the abdomen into the groin area.) I took Park into our pediatrician the next morning for a real diagnosis. He confirmed that was what it was and told me he usually sets up surgery at a certain hospital. I really wanted Parker to be seen at Hopkins since I knew all the surgeons there and was more comfortable with him getting it done in a place that I had actually worked. So, I made a few calls and we went in today to see one of my favorite pediatric surgeons, who I have actually scrubbed in and assisted with this exact surgery so many times. He took a look at Parker and posted us for surgery on Tuesday morning. The surgery will be short and sweet, and we will actually be able to go home later that same day. I feel so bad for our little Parker, but I know he really needs this and will be just fine. I couldn't be happier about how everything worked out to get him set up for surgery. I feel so much better about everything knowing the exact operating room set up, hand picking my nurses and anesthesiologist for the case, and personally knowing the surgeon who I have helped in doing this exact operation. It will definitely be a crazy day being on the other side of it all, and I have already been emotional about it. Wow, it sure is different when it is YOUR kid. Parker is the sweetest baby and we love him to pieces. I'll keep the blog updated on how it all goes. Here is a little diagram, if you are interested. They just make a little incision, and practically push the intestine up where it's supposed to go... magic.



Other than the hernia, Parker is doing great and has learned to smile. It is the cutest thing ever and melts my heart. I have tried to get pictures but he is pretty stubborn when the camera comes out. I'll keep trying. He weighs 9 lbs, 7ounces now and is 21.5 inches long. What a cutie!