Club Foot Surgery Day April 6, 2010 at 0800am

We were up at 0530 and at the hospital at 0630. Cassie had some nerves but having Grammy arrive at our house made the world of difference. Grammy kept Cassie amused with stories, pictures from her camera and songs. Grammy had been to all Cassie's pre-op visits at Mcmaster Children's hospital with the child life worker Tara. Grammy is Cassie's special safe person and Chris and I are forever indebted to her for all her assistance. You are a very very special Grammy. Words cant express how much you are loved and appreciated.

Cassie's Oma visited the night before the surgery and brought Cassie a comfort bear and lots of love and kind words as well. Grammy always says what is better than one Grammy "Two Grammy's " Thanks for your support wonderful grandmothers.

Cassie found bravery for each step of the OR process, she had quiet tears and sobs into mommy but only when no one was looking. Here Cassie is ready and she found comfort laying on her Daddy. Big Strong comforting Daddy. Chris did the more difficult job of walking her into the OR. The team was excellent they know Cassie has needle phobia and they gave her a mask to put her to sleep. Cassie cried but had no real melt downs and was in Sleepy land before she knew it. Thanks to the wonderful staff and the Pediatric Family Support program at the Children's hospital for understanding our girls fears and helping make things go smoothly.

The Pediatric Family Support Program are leaders in family centered care. The program allows a parent to be present in the operating room and Chris was present while Cassie went through the anesthetic induction. They were very sensitive to Cassie's needle phobia and used a mask to administer anesthetic and did the IV once Cassie was asleep. Three children all waited together and Cassie watched the other children and followed along. The volunteer for the waiting room was also wonderful keeping us informed and helping us find washrooms, coffee and bringing me right in to the PACU recovery unit the minute Cassie was awake.