Benji, Jan 8th

Hey everyone, here is another update on Benji.


Today was a bit better. Dr. Blok is very sensitive about managing the pain and to me that is really crucial. So, after the big operation last night, Benjamin has been kept sedated and although he is conscious he is very calm and quiet and there is no pain. When I told Dr. Blok about the other doctor and how they left him screaming and climbing up the walls in Mulbarton Hospital is was very angry and said it was absolutely unnecessary to do that to a person in this day and age. I am SO GLAD Benjamin is not there anymore!!!

This morning I had an appointment to see Dr. Blok. Eric came with me just in case there was something I did not understand. He once again explained what he did with Benjamin and then he showed us pictures on his computer that he took during the operation. First there was a picture of Benny as he was yesterday, after taking off the dressings. I nearly fainted. It was such a horrible sight. All blood and flesh and no top skin at all. Then there were a couple of other pictures and finally a picture of Benjamin as he should look right now, behind the present dressings. My friends, it seems quite beautiful to me!!!! I think he did such a good job! It's unbelievable. He neatly stitched that grafted skin and although you can't get a PROPER impression because of Ben was unconscious and with things in his mouth ... it looked really beautiful to me and I have fresh hope. So, I am going to be praying on my knees a lot tonight ... mostly thanking God because I think the miracle is in process.

Then, also, thank you for your permission to use the money as we see fit. I promise to be completely responsible ... as always ... but I did need to clear that up with you.

Well, now I am going off to bed. Tomorrow Murphy, Dominique and Paul start at their new remedial school. Carlton also starts at a new school ... with Crispin and Kay. Eric will take Faith up to sit with Benjamin while we settle them all in and I will take over from her a little later.

If all goes well I might go on a retreat for 4 days next week and when I get home, Pippa will go as well so that we can recover a little. But we will see. Let's not tempt fate ... I say it holding my breath. But I could really do with a little break. Next week will be a good time because Dr. Blok anticipates letting Benny come home on that weekend of the 19th which means I will be back then. And that last week there won't be any more operations and things for Benjamin so it will just mean recovery and Pippa will probably manage that on her own. But we'll see. Don't want to jump the gun.

Okay, thank you for your love and prayers. I am completely convinced that God has carried us through this terrible time, on account of them. And ... well, I know I squeel a lot when I am in trouble ... but I also know that you can take it. I need to do it to stay sane. It's just the way God made me. But thank you for holding my hand as I walked through that horrible valley. But I think the end is in sight.

All my love to you all,

THEA