Friday, June 12, 2009

Surgery Scheduled!

Thank you again for all of your prayers. Today we met with Dr. Walker, who is one of 6 doctors doing this procedure. Did you know most of his patients come here from out of State? They fly in just to have him save their twins, and after meeting him, I understand why.

He was great to talk to. He didn't sugar coat anything. Our boys are in Stage 2 and will likely be in Stage 3 soon. Doing nothing would result in the death of our boys, and we won't let that happen. On Monday morning at 10 a.m. I will go in for surgery. They will make a tiny incision and insert a tiny camera (2mm) and with that camera then guide a needle in for the laser. He will use the laser to sever the veins that the boys are sharing. The benefits of this are: both of our boys have a good chance at survival (70%), if one of the boys does happen to die it will not kill the other boy which is likely without the procedure (90-95% of the time at least 1 twin will survive), and there is very little risk for me. Both of the boys are still doing well, and both have a good sized area of placenta to themselves. So I pray that they do well and thrive from this procedure.

I will spend the night in the hospital, and then after an ultrasound the next day, should be able to return home. I will be on restricted activity for 1 week (although both Dr. Walker and Dr. Peterson have said I can do some work from home, which is good, because I have some things to work on). After the first week, I should be able to return to work. I will have weekly follow up visits at the U of W to make sure the boys do well. After a month, if all is well I can go to every other week. And the best part, Dr. Walker said I should be able to carry to full twin term (37 weeks), but he does recommend a c-section. I hope to deliver as close to that 37 weeks as possible, and have them here at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital.

I'm feeling hopeful after our visit. I know that there are risks, but I feel our boys are strong and will come through this. Dana is also feeling more at ease. I think he's also ready to take on his new housekeeping role next week too. Although if anyone wants to drop off a meal, you are welcome to do so! Thank you again for all your prayers! I tear up every time I remember how many people are praying for the boys, Dana and I. Also please pray for Dr. Walker who is doing the surgery, and Dr. Peterson who will be providing follow up care.

Photos to come! Including a 3D that Dr. Walker took because Frac was so cute.

13 comments:

Shauna said...

Please keep us posted. (((HUGS)))

j said...

TJ, everything that you have shared has had a bit of positive mixed in. It sounds like your boys are still healthy and that Dr. Walker is capable to help them with what's not right. I have prayed for you off and on all day, wondering how your doctor's visit was going. I am glad that he was honest with you but I have such a positive feeling about this! Another opportunity for God to be glorified!

Hugs to you TJ. I wish I were there. I would feed you some of the crummiest food ever next week - unless Bryan cooked it. THEN it would be awesome :D

Anonymous said...

Tysa! You are definitely in my thoughts and Prayers as will be your Dr's that Dr Walker will have a Steady hand for the procedure and your boys will be the Champions that they are already! If I was within Hours I would totally bring you dinner. Maybe I can have my friend drop by to check on you, but she is is Spokane... not sure if she could make it out.
Hugs!

jnbjarrard said...

tysa
I am praying and will keep praying for all to go wonderfully with the surgery and have checked in off and on all day for updates! praying ur boys do wonderfully and that the time between now and 37 wk flies by so that you can be holding both ur beautiful boys!

Anonymous said...

WOW! Above all, I am glad you are more upbeat than you were a couple days ago. All I can think of is how so many people nowdays are telling women they don't really need prenatal care and medical care in pregnancy. I just know Fric and Frac will beat the odds. They have already.

Deb Lieber said...

I'm praying for you!!! Your boys are going to make it, I believe it! Amen!

Unknown said...

T.J.
You will continually be in my prayers as will the two baby boys in your womb. May God's healing hands bring the babies through the procedure without any risk. Will look forward to hearing news soon.... If I were still in WA I would bring you a meal !!!!! I hope that people will step up and bring you some dinners. Rest well physically & within your heart..... Love your friend, Mica

Gardengirl1952 said...

Passing the news along to the prayer chain because we know prayer works. Love ya lots, Aunt Linda

Kelli said...

Dr. Walker sounds wonderful and I will be praying for him and his team. I wish I lived close enough to bring a meal! Thinking and praying for you all.
Hugs,
~Kelli

Anonymous said...

TJ . . . your post gave me chills. God's protective hand will be guiding the Doctors throughout!

Passing along your post to my readers - a lot of my relatives get my email posts. If this is a problem, please let me know. I will also link back to your site.

Praying for you and yours!

Sandra said...

Prayers and hugs to you.

Noe Noe Girl...A Queen of all Trades. said...

Love and prayers coming your way. Keep me posted.

Meredith said...

I wish I could drop off a meal for you! You and the twins will be in our prayers tommorrow.