Maybe this sounds really weird, but I think there is an aspect of me that is going to really miss Chun Le's beautiful cleft smile...it truly is beautiful and the only way we have known her so far! I am sitting here in tears as I write this blog as I ponder the thought that by Tuesday late morning we will never be able to see that gorgeous grin in the same way again. I think the other thing that is hard about this particular cleft surgery is that it is for the most part cosmetic. Her future surgeries that will work on closing up her palate will give her a chance at being able to speak well, eliminate any feeding related cleft issues, and reduce ear infections to name a few of the benefits...Tuesday's lip revision is pretty much so that she will "look better". The truth of the matter is that we love her intensely and think she is a beautiful little girl with her cleft lip and palate. We hope that if she could talk and express an opinion she would tell us that she wants to have this surgery so that she is not stared at so often out in public. We think that is what she would say, but having to make this decision for a toddler who is not going to entirely understand the reason for the pain and discomfort following surgery is hard (or at least for me it is). I did not expect that I would have such an emotional response as surgery date approaches...but that is just the way I am feeling right now. Tuesday is going to be a difficult day for all of us I think on many levels so please pray for us as we face this first surgery, for Chun Le to have a speedy recovery and for wisdom to know best how to comfort her during her recovery. Thank you family and friends! One last smile photo to enjoy...it was taken on Friday when Isaac and I decided to get out playdoh for Chun Le to experience for her first time. She enjoyed it as you can see. :)
She does have a charming smile & we will miss it, too! As long as they leave the dimple....
ReplyDeleteChun Le does have a beautiful smile. It's seems to stretch from ear to ear...I wonder if it will be less wide after surgery? We are praying for you all today. I hope that the recovery is quick and as pain-free as possible. Lisa
ReplyDeleteShe is beautiful! We are praying for all of you. I even have all the kids in my Sunday school class praying for her.
ReplyDeleteSue and Brent