🌿Wednesday Wisdom: A 12 hour journey of two hospitals, one ambulance ride & emergency surgery

November 13, 2024

It was a Thursday morning not too long ago and I woke up thinking it would be just like any other Thursday. Well, life was in control that day and it had another plan.

My son Jimmy and I ended up embarking on a 12-hour journey that was a true test of endurance and patience.

[11:00AM]

It all started with Jimmy experiencing severe abdominal pain, prompting a phone call to our pediatrician and ultimately a trip to our local hospital.

After an initial ultrasound, and several hours of waiting (and waiting!) for results, it was clear that it was something more serious. You guessed it – his appendix.

They said unfortunately it was not good news and it “needed to come out.” And oh, by the way, "this hospital does not do pediatric surgery."

Say what?!

[5:00PM] 

So off we go, loaded into an ambulance, to our second hospital of the day. And did I mention that it is now rush hour and we are headed into the city?!

Once there, Jimmy underwent more prodding and poking and yet another ultrasound. We spent several hours waiting (and waiting!) to identify that yes, that first hospital was in fact correct and the appendix needed to come out...TONIGHT!

[10:00PM]

This was Jimmy’s first time undergoing surgery, and he was a champ! He was exhausted, annoyed, and nervous for sure, but he had an incredible attitude this whole time and I was so proud of him.

The nurses and surgeons were amazing and made all of us, including Jimmy, feel comfortable about the situation and realize that soon enough it would all be behind us.

The tension was high after this long, wild day but Jimmy remained brave through it all. I, on the other hand, was a complete ball of nerves, beyond anxious, but I knew he was in excellent hands.

[11:30PM]

The surgery (which I think lasted a mere 12 minutes) was a success! And in just a little more than 12 hours later were back in our car and heading home -- exhausted but deeply relieved!

I share this with you not to focus on the frustrations of our day, but as a reminder that sometimes, when we least expect it, life has a way of taking control.

Jimmy and I never imagined our day would unfold like this, but we made it through together—12 long hours later, exhausted but relieved, and with one unforgettable story to tell!

Wishing you a Happy Wednesday! 🌿

Warm Regards,

Lisa W. Burns

. . . "Wednesday Wisdom" was created with the goal of providing women-focused content to inspire you to grow. I welcome feedback to tailor it to suit your needs. For more info on myself and Her Path, LLC. please visit www.herpathbegins.com. Thanks for being on this journey with me!