Cardiology Appointment- A 6 Month Break!

Jake and I took Avery to her cardiology check up this morning. I never know how Avery will react to the EKG, BP check, Echo, and Exam these days. Since her last surgery in NYC at 7 months, She has been very skeptical of anyone in scrubs, or really anyone in a hospital period! I know she changed a lot due to her circumstances and being more aware of what was happening to her, but I am sure stranger anxiety and her age play into it as well. She used to be so "chill" with everything, but these days, you never know! I have realized it makes a huge difference the manner in which the tech, nurse, or doctor attempts to do whatever it is he/she is trying to do with her. Usually, if they take their time, and do things to distract her and be friendly, it works to some extent. Any way, she did pretty well today, despite the fact that she isn't feeling her best (runny nose, teething, etc.). She cried during the EKG and I had to hold her hands so she wouldn't take off the stickers and/or pull on the attachments. That, of course, did not sit well with her. Thankfully, EKGs don't take very long. The only bad thing, is the reading is not very good when she is upset like that! I know Dr. Ebeid takes that into consideration though! Next, came her BP check. For some reason, she seemed to like the lady who did it. She sat in my lap, and was so still, that they got her BP in both legs! They even got it in one arm after a second try. She got a bit irritated with the cuff on her arm. I am just glad they got it at all- lots of times they can't get one on her. After that, her weight and length were checked 17.25 lbs and 27inches long! She just fussed briefly during the length check. Then came time for the echo. She got pretty upset, but my IPhone came to the rescue! I put it on the animal flashcards- one of those free apps, so she played with that and listened to the animal sounds! She got mad on and off, but did wonderful for the most part! Dr. Ebeid just listened to her for a minute with his stethoscope (sp? no idea), and we were off! She cried when he did that, but he didn't have time for her to warm up today- he's on call and very busy! As far as the news, she still looks great. Well, as great as Avery will look. Her pulmonary valve (which is the cadavor Dr. Bacha put in) is leaking still (it always has since surgery), but it is not a concern right now. Her aortic valve (which used to be her pulmonary) is working great, so that is what's most important! The coarctation also looks good for now. She will stay on her meds- Digoxin and Lasix for now, and we shouldn't have to think about surgery for atleast another year, hopefully longer! All in all, a very good appoinment! We don't have to go back for 6 MONTHS!! Such a nice break, even though I love Dr. Ebeid and Nurse Carley! Avery was pooped by the end of it, and fell asleep before we got out of the parking lot! Such a relief to know she is doing well- Thank you Lord and Thank you all that have prayed and prayed for us!!