Tribute.......

We saw the neurosurgeon today about the CSF leak. He agreed that it was pointless to re-open the incision. He still blames the steroid for not allowing the incision to heal well--we should be off them within a week (yipee). The incision is leaking where the 3 parts of the Y join, so he carefully put some medical glue on her head, on top of the stitches. We left the office thrilled at the ease of the "fix". But when we got to Proton Therapy, I noticed that her hair was still wet at the top left arm of the Y--Unbelievably, it was leaking in another place too--and this incision has not been opened in 3 weeks. Dr Butler was shocked that this new discovery, so he simply added more glue. This meticulous, precise neurosurgeon just took the glue and layered it on her head as if he was making a collage--it went everywhere--including dripping down her forehead. "We will have NO MORE LEAKS!" He said adamantly. True, but Meghan now has a built-in-hard hat!
Today Meghan's custom brace arrived. Gordon, the Orthotist, allowed her to choose the design that goes on the brace. He said that in the last 18 years, he has never had someone choose a happy face for a brace because most kids are frustrated that they need a brace in the first place. Not Meghan. She is grateful! The brace puts her leg in the correct position for walking, for strengthening and for stabilizing. Meghan is grateful that there are devices designed to help her to heal.
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Forgive me if I take a moment to express my gratitude for Meghan and her incredible personality. Meghan has shown no fear, no anger, no frustration, and no doubt throughout this entire journey. Meghan has truly found joy in the moment even when darkness abounded. She has been my mentor, my guide and my example for how to live with complete faith and trust in something higher. It is as if Meghan decided to exchange things of no worth-anger, fear, despair, doubt and negativity-for things of high worth-learning, growth, wisdom, compassion and faith. Meghan seems to emulate something that we are all searching for: The depth of His goodness and the magnitude of His love. How privileged I am to be her mother.