Movin' on up! March 18

Today we started out with good news from the doctor that Gabby was off the infusion for the DI and that she could move up to the intermediate care environment unit (ICE).  This doesn't mean that we are out of the woods regarding DI but it is a step in the right direction.  They moved Gabby up at 10:30 am into ICE on the 4th floor and we had a pretty easy day.  We got a few visitors but that was about all the excitement we had after the move.  She slept a lot more today which was good. 

The next thing we are waiting for is the removal of the extraventricular device or EVD.  This is the tube that drains the excess cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) out of her brain from the surgery and prevents swelling. If she can regulate the CSF on her own they will pull out the EVD and she will be able to move into the pediatric unit (and we can have lots of visitors again).  If she cannot regulate the CSF on her own they will have to put in a shunt that will drain the excess fluid into another part of her body.  This sounds scary but is actually not a big deal after what we have been through already, just an inconvenience to be managed, as we have been blessed with such a wonderful, positive outcome from the surgery!  It is amazing what a different perspective a brain tumour and neurosurgery can bring!  It is hard to believe that just over a week and a half ago my biggest concern of the day was whether I would have time to get to Costco before Gabby's appointment! 

We have learned quickly to take it one day at a time and not ask what will happen tomorrow because we just don't know!  Still lots of unknowns and wait and sees for the next week or so but we are celebrating the incredible success of the surgery and the huge blessing that Gabby came out of surgery the same smart, funny, talented Gabby that we all know and love!  Many prayers of thanks!

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