heart surgery.....first post

Hola! We got home from Duke almost a week ago. Boy, we are GLAD to be home. I've never been so glad to be sitting on my couch watching tv. lol. Before we left we asked as many people as we could find about their experiences so we could be as prepared as possible. While I don't think anything really prepares you, it did help to talk to other parents. Here is something we typed up to maybe help someone.....

Tips for parents going to Duke hospital
1. Buy a single/twin air bed. Not a thin camping air mattress. We found one for under $40 at target. (the people at the hospital thought it was such a great idea... guess no one brings air mattresses to the hospital?) 2. Before coming find ways to comfort your child which do not require holding him/her. We were surprised how well pats on his bottom worked to comfort him when we could not rock him. Ask about “chest PT” it seems strange, but our little guy was comforted by it.
3. Buy pack of 10 parking passes for $25 at gift shop.
4. Ask for mobile and bouncy chair/swing ASAP. Have them ready before needed.
 Stuff that came in handy:
 Dish soap
 Baggies
 Sharpie
 Pen/notebook
 Clothes-some warm more than you think you’ll need if possible. Something to occupy your mind Baby clothes that open in the front (not a typical onesie) No baby pants with feet (things will need to connect to feet like IV and Oxygen sensor…blood pressure might be taken from legs)
 Baby socks
 Pillows
 hope to post more soon :-)