Orlena has been in the Wars: Thurs 15 August 2013

Our dear little golden girl has been dealing with more dramas since her last operation earlier this August to fix her skull. She had to have Another operation, this time to fix a blocked shunt, and to re-fix the bone back, with some artificial stuff helping this bone to knit properly. Her head had been swelling again, so the shunt had to be sorted with extra draining. Orlena has been in a lot of pain, and then medication has made her very drowsy.

After several days of us all worrying, things have improved for her. The operation, which has been her 6th in a year, has gone well now, and the swelling has gone down. When the surgeons took the pressure bandage off her head, things looked really good, much to our immense relief. And the best part is our little darling has been laughing and singing again.

Let's hope this progress continues. She went home yesterday, much to her delight. And everyone elses!

Update: 12 September 2013

I've just had a lovely chat by phone to Steph, Orlena's devoted Mum. All is going well with our little 4 year old golden girl, and she is at pre-school today, with her special educational aide helping her, because of her needs. This preschool is right across the road from home, and 2 of Ollie's cousins also go to the same school, which is great for the family. Alanah and Rebecca run over to see Ollie every day.

There have been a few hiccups for Orlena since her last operation, dealing with post op swelling and some pain. She only cries when it really hurts, and she is generally a very stoic and patient child. I am looking forward to being back home by the end of October, so Dave and I can go along to some of Orlena's therapy sessions that she attends at PMH twice a week. It is inspirational watching how the dedicated staff put her through all the exercises she needs to get more movement back, and she works so willingly with the people pushing her through her paces. Tough Love! That's what is needed to make our girl stronger.

Proud Nanna