Madeline's Followup

We all remember when Madeline was really sick.  Both her pediatrician here in Newport at the naval base and the cardiologist in Providence have agreed it looks like a case of Kawasaki's Disease. The cardiologist said she was one of lucky ones and the illness had no long lasting effects on her heart or arteries. Thank you, GOD. At the cardiologist's office Madeline was an amazing little trooper. The staff all ooohhhed and awwwwwed over how cute she was and what a perfect patient she was. She sat still for everything. Through the echocardiogram and the EKG she hardly batted an eye. I was impressed! The nurse told me they have to sedate three year olds who can't sit still for it. Yikes! While we waited in the cardiologist's exam room to hear the results, I read to her from her new Brave book (courtesy of the nurse!) and couldn't help but think about what a crazy ordeal the past almost three months have been. This wild sickness roller coaster that we all had to ride was hopefully coming to an end. From the hospital stay, to the side effects of the illness (skin peeling, losing a fingernail), her hair falling out, multiple dr. appointments...and finally to hear the cardiologist say "her heart is perfect"; The relief I felt was immeasurable. When we were walking to our car in the parking garage, I picked her up and gave her a huge hug and got all teary-eyed. She said "mommmmm (annoyed) why are you cryyyying?" I responded "because you are such a good, well-behaved girl, and you're healthy...and mommy is so very happy right now."

I feel relieved. I feel grateful. I feel blessed.

It's been one hell of an adventure and I prefer to never experience such a thing again. ;)

Thank you to everyone for thinking of us and caring so much for our Madeline!!