So it has been a little crazy and so this is why the blog is a little behind in updating. First, thank you to each and every one of you for your prayers. We know they make a difference and we appreciate them so much.

Carson's surgery went well per the doctors. His anatomy is described as unique, go figure! Well of course, he is unique, in more than one way, as my father says, pure gold unique! As a result of this he has a posterior and anterior graft. They put in a cuffed trach and the stent goes above his vocal cords. This was a disappointment for all of us, because he will most likely not be able to talk or make noise for the five weeks he has the stent. Tough to explain to a 3.5 year old. With the stent higher, it also makes it more painful for Carson. It is harder to cough or swallow because of the pain caused by the stent. In addition, the physicians felt there would be a need for smaller surgeries in the future. We were all hoping for miraculous healing or at least no other surgeries. God must have other plans and we continue to pray for acceptance of this and knowing his plans are GOOD for Carson even if it wasn't what we had in mind.  On the positive side, the doctors were pleased with what they accomplished and Carson did great during surgery. Praise the Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The night after surgery was very rough. Carson was in so much pain he could not breathe effectively and so his oxygen saturation dropped considerably. It was frightening for Liz and Preston and extremely difficult to see him in so much pain. He would cry every time he had to breathe deeply, cough, or swallow. It was intense pain. He does have pain medication, but there is only so much it can do. Preston and Liz were with him and are naturally very exhausted from all the emotional and physical stress.

We have all been praying today for mercy for Carson from the intense pain, strength and grace for Liz and Preston, and protection against any infection.

Just a few hours ago, Preston texted a picture of Carson smiling and said the rest of day 2 was better. Still significant pain, but Liz got to hold Carson for 5 minutes or so; Preston, Liz, and Carson all got a little sleep today; and it seems the pain is better tonight.

The physicians rounded this morning and felt Carson was recovering well and all was to be expected. The plan is to remove the rib drain (graft was harvested from the rib; this has been very painful because every time he breathes, it hurts) Sunday and the drain in Carson's neck Monday. The physicians felt the pain would improve some with drain removal.  Otherwise, he has been able to be on room air rather than oxygen some today which is improvement and they are planning to start a little pedialyte to see how his belly handles it.

Prayer requests:
1) Healing and protection for Carson - especially protection from any infection or other illnesses while recovering

2) Relief from intense pain

3) That Carson will be able to tolerate the stent and still be able to eat and drink some as some children do not tolerate the stent well at all

4) Grace, strength, peace, health for Preston and Liz as they care for Carson

5) Rest for all and also prayers for Kellen as this is difficult for him as well

We thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Sarah (Aunt Ra Ra)