Sarah's Posts

Sarah is not happy at her first post op visit. No more poking and prodding. They have to remove a string from the bottom of her scar. Sarah won’t let them near her. Dr. Newburger looks at me. I’m close to collapse. She wants to speak with me alone. She asks if I am OK. I’m not sure what’s happening. Tony Soprano and the ducks. Dr. Newburger says, “This is common. Triggered by being back in the hospital. The strength that got you through the past few months is gone.” Sarah is given a clean bill of health. Rachel asks Daniel if we can get back to our normal routine. He says, “You bet. “ We head back to New York. Rachel and Sarah fight in the back seat of the car. Rachel’s had enough. Sarah gets more attention. Rachel cries. We love Sarah more then her. Daniel plans a special father daughter day with Rachel. Daniel tells Rachel to get dressed up. Rachel is thrilled. Where are we going? It’s a surprise!!! Right before they leave Sarah starts throwing up. She lies on the floor in agony. Screaming. Her head hurts. Rachel can’t wait to have her special day. She doesn’t know it but they are going to a Broadway show. Sarah doesn’t stop throwing up. She is in terrible pain. She can’t hold liquids down. She’s limp as a noodle. I call the pediatrician. We need to get Sarah to the ER immediately. She’s on diuretic medication and at risk for dehydration. Her electrolytes need to be checked. Needs a chest x-ray. It could be an infection due to surgery. Daniel and Rachel are heading into the theater when Daniel sees my text. Instead of enjoying the show they jump in a cab and come home. I email Dr. Adams. We are heading up to Mt. Sinai ER. Dr. Adams gets in touch with Mt. Sinai Pediatric Cardiac ICU team. Sarah is given a shot of Zofran. She is so sick she barely protests. The Zofran works. She slowly tolerates liquids and miraculously comes to life. They take wonderful care of Sarah. Rachel spends her special day watching 6 hours of Barbie movies in MT. Sinai Emergency Room.