Chest Tubes and Staples are Out

So chest tubes and staples are out. All except for the staples in her neck, which will come out either tomorrow or Saturday. She is one number away from her home vent settings. She is still on some o2, but has she recovers, and gets used to her vent settings being weened down, I think she will come off the oxygen. The Dr. on this week said she may still go home over the weekend, but maybe Monday. So who knows. All I know is that she is almost home bound and that is all that matters to me. She is doing great. CV surgery calls her a "Rock Star" I think she is just one really tough, awesome kid!! I am so thankful for her speedy recovery. It is hard to imagine just how sick she was last year. Now I look at her, and she is so strong and determined. That's my girl!! I am so proud of her and I am proud to be her mommy!! Thanks again for all of your continued prayers. I am praying that once she gets home, she is will start to develop and catch up with other kids her age. I think we have a really long recovery road ahead of us in that regards, but I know she is a miracle baby and if there is a will, there is way. The Lord has been by our side every single step of the way, and he will continue to guide us through this new season of our lives. I feel like we have moved passed the critical, very fragile days and have entered into the rehab days. Yes she is still fragile, but not anywhere close to like she was. I am ready to see just what Isabella can do!! I dreamt the other night, that she just started talking. I am ready to hear her sweet little voice. With her trach, we don't even know what it sounds like when she cries. Her mouth opens, but no sound escapes. Then ever so often, a little sound will escape, and it is the most beautiful sound I have ever heard.
I would also like to add some tid bits about Ava. She continues to do well. She is getting her chest closed today. Please continue to pray for her recovery so that Nate and Amy can take her home soon. Hopefully she will get extubated in a few days so they can finally hold her again. Trust me, it is so painful to sit and watch your child and not be able to pick her up and snuggle her and comfort her. So please continue to pray.