Surgery

Beth made it through surgery just fine!  The surgery lasted quite a bit longer than expected, partially because she didn't get into surgery until far later than her estimated time.  It made for a looong day of waiting for her friends and family, but we were all so relieved that she did well in surgery.

They didn't have to do anything extremely invasive, they only removed a piece of bone and opened the first layer of dura to allow the second, more elastic layer to expand.  This means far less risk than if they had to remove the cerebellar tonsils or remove the C1 vertebra.

Beth was extremely nervous about surgery yesterday morning.  However, once she was taken back, she was able to pray and felt God's peace come over her and she was more at ease with surgery.  This was a huge praise for us because we have been praying for God's peace to surround her.

After surgery, Beth was awake and talking and able to follow all commands (stick out your tongue, smile, push, pull, etc.).  Unfortunately, she was in a LOT of pain, which is to be expected when they remove a piece of your skull, I suppose.  They were trying various different medications to try to alleviate the pain, but only succeeded in making it difficult for her to breathe.  She continued to recover and is pressing on in spite of the pain.  She was very comical last night and succeeded and making us laugh by being ornery and making all kinds of jokes about different stuff in spite of the pain.

We all praise God that the surgery went so well and that she has come through it and it is behind us.  Thank you so much for praying for Beth!