Lily's in the OR

Dr. McGowan, the anesthesiologist, just took Lily back to the OR.  He was an answer to prayer.  He makes multiple trips to China on medical missions to offer orphan care.  He understand completely the need not to traumatize Lily and set-back her attachment process by taking her away from me if she was upset.  He administered the usual pre-meds for surgery to help her relax; however, she still had a firm grip on my shirt.  So he patiently waited until she warmed-up to him.  He played games with her...blowing raspberries on her belly, playing with a light wand, etc, until he had her giggling.  Then she happily let him pick her up and carry her off to the OR.  I was SO thankful for his understanding of the attachment process and for his willingness to delay his schedule to wait on her.  Very rare indeed.

In addition to Dr. McGowan's amazing patience with Lily, he was also an answer to prayer in my quest to advocate for orphans.  While in Shanghai, I met a little boy in the orphanage who was deemed unadoptable due to his severe heart condition.  Dr. McGowan is taking a medical mission's trip to Shanghai next month and has agreed to try to see the little boy and try to evaluate his health needs.  Please pray with me that I can gain permission for the medical team to get access to this little boy who has been heavy on my heart for the weeks since returning from China.  I am amazed at how the Lord is orchestrating all of this even in the midst of Lily's surgery!

Lily's actual surgery should begin any minute (around 8:30 a.m.).  Pray for Dr. Bradley as he begins this delicate procedure.  We are at total peace as we know she is in the hands of an excellent surgeon who has been gifted by the One is in charge of it all.