Maggie was discharged after having her outpatient procedure, and we are resting at our hotel near the hospital. She is feeling ok and is ready for sleep. The procedure did not go quite as planned. We understood the priority to be internalization of the drain (with placement of a stent) with a secondary goal of getting a biopsy for analysis to be used in customization of treatment plan. The biopsy was taken first, leading to localized bleeding that was contained quickly. However, the stent could not be placed due to concerns for clotting and blockage of the stent as a result of bleeding. Maggie came out of the procedure with the external drain and bag (Simone Bile) still in place. She nor her parents were pleased. We have long-standing vacation plans starting Tuesday morning, and Simone was not invited. We met with the radiologist and expressed our frustration. He was sympathetic and agreed to schedule a Monday morning procedure to remove the drain. This should allow the site time to heal and be ready for stent placement. The risk for bleeding/complication should be low for this. The game plan now is to return home in the morning, prepare for vacation, return Sunday evening to UAB, have the procedure Monday am, and return to Hattiesburg Monday afternoon. If all goes off without a hitch, Simone will pack her bag for a one way trip to the biohazard bin, and we’ll catch the first plane out Tuesday morning. Please join us in praying for a hitch-less procedure and a much needed break.
I would be less than truthful if I called the last two weeks anything beyond bearable. Barely bearable. We’re tired of the disappointments and ready for a rest. One calm week of vacation will go a long way toward reviving our spirits. With important decisions for the future direction of treatment, we’re hoping some family time with a bit of diversion will help prepare us for the months ahead.
God is good. He continues to show up in big and small ways. This morning we were told the procedure would be off if Maggie’s bilirubin levels were too high. The doctor seemed in doubt they would be low enough. (Wednesday counts taken in Hattiesburg were still too high although showing a downward trend). Phil offered a prayer for counts to allow the procedure. We were elated when her levels came in “good enough”. So, off we go to the procedure, thinking the worst is behind. And then the bleed. Another period of waiting. I’m thankful today’s procedure was permitted. Given the complications, if today’s procedure had been rescheduled for Monday – vacation would be off. As it is, we’re inconvenienced – mostly Maggie – but we’re still able to look forward to our trip. We also had a happy surprise. Four couples from Temple’s leadership team – the Chapmans, Beasleys, Guerrys, and Cades stopped in for a visit on their way to Atlanta. Drew Chapman brought a card signed by the youth group, and then Maggie spoke with the other visitors via FaceTime. During our low moments, we cling to a God who loves us. We hold on until we start to sense our steps moving on to higher ground.
Thank you for the prayers. We feel them in our hours of need and love you all.
Praying for a safe procedure on Monday and a great vacation.
Praying all will go well for a much needed vacation!
So praying you get to enjoy your vacation time with no complications. Love you all!
Praying
Praying you all go on that much needed fruit without Simone Bile!
Praying for Monday’s procedure, a restful vacation for the Hanberrys, and wisdom for the physicians as treatment plans are determined.
Prayers from the Gunters that the procedure goes well Monday and the much needed vacation break will become reality.
Praying along with you.
Romans 8:28. Praying Monday goes well and a restful vacation will follow.
Prayers for a wonderful vacation and some relaxation.
Praying every day for precious Maggie and all of you!
Much love and many prayers!!!! ?❤️?
Praying fervently all goes well and you all have a wonderful md restful vacation!!❤️??
Praying your time away will be blessed and that your strength will be renewed.
Praying all goes just the way it should and y’all have a wonderful much needed vacation.
As I shut off my phone now and close my eyes, know that I’m saying a prayer just for you as so many others are tonight. You continue to be an inspiration, Maggie!
Praying that God’s anointing will reign reign SUPREME and the family can enjoy a much needed vacation and breath of “fresh air”! Keep the faith.
Praying that the drain can be trashed soon.❤️
Praying always for Maggie and those who know her. I am also praying for a restful vacation for your family.
Praying for you and your family and much needed vacation. Love y’all!