I'm so in love <3

I feel like a kid in the candy store!!!  I am so enthralled and madly in love with my newest little gift from God!  His little personality is starting to show as he is starting to "feel" better, and he is soooooo stinking cute (he looks just like Daddy)!  Knowing that he is my last baby (biological at least), makes me want to soak in every second of babyhood!

I've been able to hold him twice a day, but last night there was a turning point!  Every time I held him before, he was still "stressing" over the noises in the room, movements, etc.  but last night was different.  He was crying when I got there - even with all his "issues", he knows when its time to eat, and doesn't like to wait for it - but immediately calmed down when he heard me.  We talked (Ezekiel and I), while the nurse got his feeding ready, and he just stared at my every move, perfectly content.  Once I got him skin to skin, all his "vitals" stabilized!  The nurse saw it too and allowed me to "kangaroo" him for 3 1/2 hours!  The alarm kept going off, but this time it was because his oxygen saturation was too high!  The nurse had to keep lowering his oxygen level until he was almost on room air by time I left!  His respiration and everything else stayed stable also!  God is so good!  I was just telling Him (God) last night (before my little visit with Zeke) that I am so thankful for the miracles surrounding this whole thing, and I don't want to complain, but (I sound like one of my kids) it is so hard to watch my baby suffer!  He gets it!  He understands that mamma heart thing!  My verse this morning (comes thru my phone) was "Wait for The Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for The Lord" Psalm 27:14.  OK, Lord, I will wait for your perfect timing, but thank you for letting me see my sweet little angel baby respond and improve so quickly!

Today was a big day! They removed his IV, stopped giving him lipids, and had him on room air most of the day.  The upped his feelings (he always seems to be hungry) and is much more tolerable of his diaper changes, noises, etc!  I got to hold him 3 hours again this morning and am getting ready to go back again!  Feeling the favor!

I am doing good also.  Still having some bowel movement issues (sorry TMI), but it is kinda a blessing in disguise because it is keeping me here!  My pain is much better - still sore, but tolerable, even when I'm running low on pain meds.  My hemoglobin was down to 8.8, so that is something else they want to keep an eye on (it was 10.4 after surgery).  

The rest of the family are enjoying themselves and all the friends, company, and food!  I've heard that a few of them (won't mention any names) are taking advantage of "getting away" with lots since mom is not there!  Tom and Dakota (and I) are incredibly grateful for all the help!  And I have enjoyed all my visitors, calls, and texts!  Thank you again!  You have been the hands and feet of Jesus during this time!  

Update on Ezekiel

Ezekiel is quite the little character!  He enjoys the calm and quiet of his little isolet (his little plastic temporary home), but has a hard time dealing with "normal" newborn stress.  His oxygen drops and his respiration and heart rate excellerate when they change his diaper, open his isolet to feed him, or handle him in any way.  It is so sad to see!  He responds good to my voice - and will generally settle pretty quickly when I talk to him, so I am trying to be there each feeding (that's the only time they "mess with" him cause they want him to rest and recover).  

I've gotten to "kangaroo care" him 4 times now, and I'm going back at 8 tonight!  It is the highlight of my days (and his as well)!  If there is a lot going on in NICU (other babies crying, machines beeping, Tom talking) then his stats tend to drop again - even while I'm holding him.  Poor little guy needs to get used to lots of noise and action!  Please pray that his little spirit calms down (he's been through a lot the past couple weeks in utero and his sensitivity is understandable) and that the love of God would just envelope him and make him feel safe and secure!

I am feeling pretty good!  My pain is much more tolerable (as long as I don't let my pain meds lap) and I am walking, showering, getting in and out of bed, etc. on my own.  Praise God!  I am also starting to get a little bit better supply of milk in, where they are only having to supplement a little bit each feeding!  They took me for x-rays this morning, thinking I may have a bowel obstruction from the surgery. Without going into too much detail, that can be an area of specific prayer!  

Also, please pray for Ezekiel's lungs to continue to heal and perform!  Thank you all for the delicious food you've been providing for my family and the child care!  The kids have been having a blast... Which makes my heart happy!!!  

God will continue the "good work" that He began!  Strengthen my boy Lord!  

Miracles never cease...

He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.  Job 5:9

Glory to God!!!  I am alive!!!  I am still in shock over the turn of events in the last 2 days!  God is so good... And has truly touched many lives through this whole situation.  And that's His goal - to use ordinary people like you, me, Ezekiel, my doctors, etc. to make Himself known on the Earth... And He has proven Himself faithful once again!  Praise Him!

Thank you Elaine and Dakota for keeping up the blog while I was "busy"!  It was such a blessing to so many (I know this because of the tons of e-mails, Facebook messages, texts, etc)!  The blog just hit 3,000 views!  That blows my mind... And to all those that have been praying and standing in faith with me and my family - God heard your prayers!  Thank you!

As Elaine previously posted, after Dr. Sullivan came back into town on Monday, they decided (the urologist and himself) decided to go back to plan "A" which was to perform all three surgeries in the morning.  I was feeling pretty anxious about starting Monday night and was relieved to go back to plan "A".  I hardly slept at all Monday night, but was ready and felt such peace when they came in at 4:30 a.m. to start prepping me.  Tom was there by 5:15 and the morning went very quickly.  They started 2 more IV sites on me and talked me through everything they were doing and planning to do.  One of the things they decided that morning was to give me a spinal (like an epideral) for the first two surgeries so that Ezekiel had less exposure to the general anesthesia.  That was such an answer to prayer, cause that was the heaviest thing on my heart!  I went back to the operating room at 7:30 and was given the spinal.  The first 2 procedures took 2 1/2 hours and went very smoothly.  I was awake and aware of everything that whole time.  Once again, the team of doctors and nurses were incredible - catching my vomit, holding my hand, talking me through each procedure, and even itching my eyes!   It all went like clockwork and there was incredible unity and peace in the rooms (3 different procedures were in 3 different rooms).  By time they got me to the operating room to deliver Ezekiel, it was 10 o clock.  Praise God I wasn't under general anesthesia that whole time!  Everything started moving pretty quickly and before I knew it, in was asleep.
I woke up in a daze... And slowly came to.  As requested (I made sure everyone knew that I wanted to wake up to pictures of baby Ezekiel), someone was right next to me with phone in hand showing me pictures of sweet little Ezekiel.  It's all kinda a blur, but I remember everyone being amazed how quick and easy surgery went.  How I didn't have any blood transfusions, never went to ICU, how Ezekiel came out crying (meaning the general anesthesia didn't get to him yet), and the whole surgery only took 1 1/2 hours!  Glory to God!  I've heard repeatedly how it couldn't have gone any smoother and that the blood loss was no more then a "normal" delivery!
Ezekiel is doing well, but needs prayer!  His lungs are not keeping up with the demands of breathing and instead of slowly decreasing the amount of oxygen he is on, they are having to increase it.  They just gave him a second shot of a drug that is supossed to help his little lungs catch up.  They are also taking a sample from his lung tissue to rule out a possible viral or bacterial infection.  His stats go way down whenever he is upset or when they "mess with" him at all.  Nobody can hold him until his stats are stabilized.  So please pray that happens soon.... Cause I can only imagine that he wants to be in my arms almost as much as I want him in my arms!  Sweet little guy just wants his mommy!
Dr. Sullivan came in today and was blown away by the ease of the surgery and was thrilled with the outcome!  Several of the nurses that were there have also stopped by to check on me, many with tears in their eyes at the miracle that they witnessed!  They (the team of doctors and nurses) had a debriefing today and asked my permission to "publish" my case, because it was a "phenomenal" success story!  I said "Sure, just make sure God gets the glory!"!  I praise God for the incredible talent, wisdom, and knowledge of all the doctors involved!  They all did their parts perfectly and the "plan" was perfectly executed!
I am doing well today, about 30 hours post surgery.  The incision they made is huge - a little above my belly button to my pelvic bone.  I am in a lot of pain when I try to move, but know that moving will help my body to heal faster... So I'm trying.  I'm not taking the morphine because I want to be able to give Ezekiel my milk, so the other pain pills are helping some, but I'm amazed at my pain level (I usually have a very high tolerance for pain).  Please pray the pain subsides!  Also, my body is  not making much milk.  I've tried pumping 5 times now and have only gotten a little over an ounce all together, so that's another prayer request!  My body is recovering and making milk isn't on the top of it's priority list.
Thank you all so much for being my prayer warriors during this time!  Thank u for the phone calls, texts, Facebook messages, e-mails, etc - they have meant the world to me... And I knew was never alone in all this!  We serve a living God that is eager to pour out His love on those who diligently seek Him!  :)

Ezekiel

I think I'm making mommy a lil jealous :))

Trying to open his eyes. His eyes are a  swollen from all the fluid...so he looks a lil angry :p
We can't hold him yet cuz he's still breathing to fast and too much respitory distress. Everytime the nurses mess with him he cries and his oxygen levels need to be boosted up a lil...so they want him to just rest. They don't want to risk him getting stressed out if we try to hold him. But when mom was in there talking with him and rubbing his head his respitory went down almost half of what it was...he wants mommy to hold him! :)

pictures :)

Here's some pictures...not sure if they all uploaded or not.

Happy sleeping mommy :)

This is now Dakota updating. My Mom is now sleeping...she's sore and a lil nauseous but doing good. She got to see Baby Ezekiel which made her very happy :) I got to go see Ezekiel several times today...just stood there starring at his tiny lil self and taking billions of pictures! My dad and I just got home after an extremely long emotional day. But praise God for all the good reports and the amazing testimony this is going to be. I am so blessed by all the family and friends coming together and helping with my siblings, bringing meals, and especially the prayers to help support us in this time. It takes alot of pressure off me...being able to be with my mom and especially Ezekiel as my mom cant do much right now. Hopefully I can hold my lil baby brother tomorrow and I will write more once I know more about how they r doing :)

Rejoicing in the waiting room...

This is still Elaine posting, and now partying in the surgery waiting room!  We just got word from the doctor and the recovery room nurse. The whole team is so impressed with God's handiwork!  The testimony of Ezekiel Tomson Good continues to touch the lives of so many, even strangers!  

Jody's surgery lasted less than an hour and a half!  This is nowhere near the 3-11 hours that we all were prepared for. The 20 units of blood on standby just for Jody can now go to several other folks instead!  NO blood was given to her at all!  Her doctor felt great about the outcome all the way around and does not expect any issues as a result of the acretia. AMAZING!

It's 1:20 now, she's awake and talking in recovery. She's seen pics of the baby and is in good spirits! She's expected to be in a regular room within the hour!  Praise God!  

John and Dawn Bratcher brought lunch to those of us waiting...who were suddenly starving once we realized all was well!  What a blessing!

It's so exciting to watch God's plan unfold!  AND, it's so exciting to see the body of Christ come together to pray, to bless and to serve. God's provision of peace and of miracles in a very scary situation would be blessing enough, but God throws in a loving flock to come alongside to bless and support!

1:40 Jody just came out of recovery!  She's groggy but great!

Baby Ezekiel should get to come "soon" to see his mommy and have a snack!  We are learning that soon is relative here!  

About Jody!!!!!

Great news!!!  Jody is DONE!  She'll be headed to recovery soon!  Minimal blood loss - 20 bags of blood on hold - NONE GIVEN TO JODY!!!
Yay God!!!  He came through!!!

5lbs 12oz!!!!!!

Praise God!  All is more than well with baby Ezekiel!!!  Tom and Dakota walked their big new baby over to NICU!  He's breathing very well on his own. For 34 weeks, he's big!!!  Mia and Dakota are in  the NICU now. Pastor Don and Tom are here now to pray!
Just heard.... Minimal blood loss!!!
Go God!!!

Pics of baby

Baby born 10:28!!!!!!!

Ahhhh!  No lullaby yet...it figures!
No other news yet either except that baby came out crying which is great news!!!!

Checking in...

Good morning all!  I was hoping to have a bit more information to give you but I'd rather check in anyway. Jody went in shortly after 7:30 this morning. A nurse that went in with her was texting Tom from her phone for awhile but the battery was low and we haven't heard anything for awhile. We last heard that the she was in her second procedure and things were fine.
News flash!!!!!
We just heard the lullaby song overhead!  We are so hoping it was for Ezekiel!!!!  We are hoping, waiting and praying!
Tom and Jim and I are sort of waiting patiently. They are blessing and amusing the other folks in the waiting room!
Ahhhh!  Another lullaby!  No news yet though!
As soon as I hear anything, I'll post!
Please pray!

The first of many praise reports....

This is Elaine catching you all up on Jody and Ezekiel on their big day!  First of all, several changes occurred since Jody's last post.  Jody's OB, Dr.Sullivan, a praying, God fearing man, returned from his trip to the "new agenda" for the surgery and was not comfortable with the idea of dealing with the urology surgery last night. Knowing the risks, he felt better to wait until this morning to do all the surgeries. Jody of course, wants what's best, but was saddened to hear once again, that Ezekiel would be under anesthesia a long time. Naturally, she put it in God's hands, knowing that he is ultimately in charge of the whole thing!
After a rather sleepless night, she is in good spirits and waiting for God and all her many surgery teams to do their thing!  The doctors just came in to tell her that they plan to do the urology surgery using a spinal anesthesia only!  This is huge!  It will take about an hour but the spinal will not affect the baby at all!  That is scheduled for 7:30am. As soon as they're finished, Jody will go under general anesthesia for the delivery and remaining surgeries. This means that the baby will receive some of the the general anesthesia but only about 10 minutes or so compared to the hour and 10 minutes with the earlier plan!  Please still pray for minimal anesthesia for him and for minimal effects!
I'll try to keep posting as long as there are updates. Keep praying!
Elaine

White flag

I've been admitted to the hospital and am getting settled into my "pin cushion" position!  My nurses are super sweet and I've already had many tests run... Not even sure what they are all for, but am glad that everyone seems to be on the "preventative" side and are trying to get everything ready for tomorrow.  I have a nurse that will be my "guide" nurse and be with me pretty much all the time the next 3 days.  They IV's they put in are huge tubes - with huge needles!  Ouch!  That way they can push blood in faster through many "sites" should the need arise.  They also asked to what measures they should take to keep me alive (I said any and all... please) and had me sign a million forms about the same kinda stuff.  It's a little nerve wracking, but I know I am in good hands!

I wrote all that this morning and a lot has happened since!  After another "team" meeting today, the doctors have decided to split my surgeries between tonight and tomorrow morning, so my first surgery is in 30 mins!  They are doing the urology parts of the surgery tonight under spinal (instead of general) which is an answer to prayer!  The longer baby in under general anesthesia - the worse it is for him and the longer recovery for him.  By splitting the surgeries up, they should be able to have baby out within 15 -30 mins of going under general anesthesia!  Praise God!!!  

I have met soooo many amazing people today, and they are all set and ready with an incredible plan...covering all bases!  I've had nurses come in and say that I am the talk of the whole hospital - and that they've never seen a surgery as meticulously planned out!  It's a little eerie... And I don't like the "spotlight" but feel the love and favor of God on every aspect of this journey!  My nurse that is staying with me the whole time tomorrow is a Christian and sooooo super sweet!  She said "Just have the faith of Nik Wallenda - and keep your focus on Jesus - you will be fine!"  I pray that God would give me faith like that!  I believe all will be well in the end, but I want to believe for miracles and "beyond" well!

Last night was incredible as we did a family Bible study and prayer time and each of the kids prayed for me and Ezekiel.  Their prayers were so tender and full of faith!  Oh, how I love my family - and love the spiritual growth I have already seen through this trial!  They are experiencing the love of God, service of the body of Christ, and seeing prayers answered right before their eyes!  Glory to God!

I had a hard time sleeping last night.... But God was faithful with songs on my heart again!  I sang "I raise my white flag, I surrender, ALL to you" over and over again - feeling freedom come more and more with each verse!  What a relief to surrender it all - He's got it all under control anyways!  I have also had the song "whom shall I fear" in my head for weeks... The lyrics are incredible and I'll add them at the end of this post, so you can agree in prayer with me!

Israel and Judah have both been sensing that something is going on and have been a little clingy and needy.  It is so hard to see them so insecure.  Judah woke up in the middle of the night and crawled onto the couch with me saying "I wanna lie wit you".  He's never done that before.  I held him and wept (while singing) for well over an hour (2a.m.)!  I just kept thinking - tomorrow night I won't be here if he wants to"lie wit me" (not thinking long term, but I'll be at the hospital)!  It's incredible how my perspective has changed!  Squishy (Israel) just wants to sit, climb on, cuddle, and pinch me ALL the time!  So sweet!  And I've enjoyed just sitting and enjoying all of them!

So... This is probably my last post for a couple days.  Elaine and Dakota are going to keep it up while I am recovering.  I am forever grateful for your prayers and support!  You have all been an incredible blessing to me and my family!  I am standing with you and believing for an amazing testimony to come from all of this!  To God be the glory!!!

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, THAT YOU MAY PROCLAIM THE PRAISES OF HIM who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light!  1 Peter 2:9

WHOM SHALL I FEAR LYRICS  BY: CHRIS TOMLIN
You hear me when I call
You are my morning song
Though darkness fills the night
It cannot hide the light
Whom shall I fear?

You crush the enemy
Underneath my feet
You are my sword and shield
Though trouble linger still
Whom shall I fear?

I know who goes before me
I know who stands behind
The God of angel armies is always by my side
The One who reigns forever
He is a friend of mine
The God of angel armies is always by my side

My strength is in Your name
For You alone can save
You will deliver me
Yours is the victory
Whom shall I fear?
Whom shall I fear?

And nothing formed against me shall stand
You hold the whole world in Your hands
I'm holding on to Your promises
You are faithful
You are faithful

The countdown....

The countdown has began.... it's kinda surreal!  I know that I only have a couple more hours of being home and enjoying my family - at least for awhile!  Tom took all the kids to church and I stayed home and "sat"... I blared worship music and had a sweet time with the Lord!  He is good!  It's amazing the comfort and peace that I feel (as long as nobody asks me how I'm feeling - weird how that works).  Anyways, I almost never have the whole house to myself - and I had to fight the overwhelming desire to get up and clean, flip laundry, and organize miscellaneous piles that I am trying hard not to see!  It is so hard to sit and not do!  I'm slowly learning to "let it go"!

I was feeling very anxious last night... and was afraid I wasn't going to be able to sleep.  I begged for God to take it and to fill my heart with songs.  HE DID!!!  I slept great!  I woke up 3 or 4 times between 1 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., but every time I had a song on my heart and "sang" myself back to sleep without allowing my brain to turn on!  Honestly, it was probably the best night of sleep I've had for 2 weeks!  Glory to God! Before bed, Tom and I and the older kids watched "Gifted Hands" (several people had suggested I watch it).  It was a great movie... and was quite relevant at this time!  I was once again amazed at technology and the difference a God-fearing doctor can make!  I highly recommend it!

When Tom and the kids got home today, everyone seemed very on edge (probably the fact that we let them stay up past midnight last night)!  But we all recovered and decided to take some family photos!  When I was organizing photos and starting this blog, I wanted a "good" family photo... and couldn't find one less then 1 1/2 years old.  So.... here's a couple very recent snapshots!

Tom, Dakota (17), Levi (5), Judah (2), Israel (4), Justus (12), Me (Jody), and in the front... Isaiah (9), and Shayli (11)   

Until next time... Thank you for your prayers :)

Fear and love....

Praise The Lord!!! My fluid was up and I am home again!  One more day at home, one more day in the hospital, and then the "big day"!  I'm so excited and nervous at the same time!!!!  I'm so looking forward to meeting this special little guy that has rocked my world - already!  It's so sad to me that the joy and celebration of "new life" is surrounded by such a hard time.  I KNOW it will all be worth it in the end!  And I would do it all again - even if I knew it was going to be this hard!

I've been thinking a lot the last several days about my fears.  It's really kinda weird, I am not the least bit afraid of dying.  I KNOW that this life is temporary and that when I take my last breath here, I will be walking streets of gold - surrounded by the glory of God!  It's not that I think I'm going to die.... I am planning on surviving (but all this has definitely made me think) and praise God that I have confidence in the salvation that He has provided through my faith in Jesus Christ!  My fears are for my husband and my children.  I fear for the "pain" that they would have to endure at the loss of their wife/mom.  I fear that they wouldn't remember how much I loved them.  I fear that they would eat candy for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and watch movies all day long.  I fear that they would never eat another fruit or vegetable and that they may go several days or even weeks without a bath or shower.  I fear that nobody would be able to find the scotch tape, extra toilet paper, or cinnamon.  I fear that the pressure of raising 8 children by himself would be too much for Tom.  I fear that Dakota would have to "grow up" too fast and carry the weight of being the "mommy".  I fear that nothing will ever get organized and/or stay organized.  I fear that my children will have to go to public school and/or daycare and be raised by a society of people that have no morals or values or convictions or fear of God!  I fear that there will be nobody there to tell my dear husband that having the 2 year old on the roof isn't a good idea.  I fear that Ezekiel will never get the chance to feel his mother's loving touch.  I fear that nobody will remind them to brush their teeth or put on deodorant.  I fear for my family and friends that don't know the Lord, that they won't have the comfort of knowing I am safe in the arms of Jesus.

These are just a few of the "fears" that have swirled around in my mind over the past couple of weeks.  Some of them are enough to break me!  Some of them are so silly - I'm learning that I really need to let some things go!  However, ALL of them are known and understood by a God that's love is BIGGER and can easily handle each and every one of them!  I was trying so hard NOT to think of these things, but the truth of the matter is - it is natural to have these kinds of fears.  I would even venture to suggest that it is a really good thing for everyone to ponder life and death, because the truth is... all of us are going to die someday... and stand before God.  What a comfort it is to KNOW that death is only the beginning of eternity!

The bottom line is... things may be hard for awhile... and chances are, while I'm in the hospital, the kids will eat candy and drink soda and watch movies all day and stay up late every night... but they will be OK!  They will probably get away with a lot... and most likely enjoy every minute of it!   When I get home, there will be some adjusting to do - some long days of recovery on my part - and back to "reality" for the family (flashcards, books, fruits and vegetables, and chores - I'm not really THAT bad)!  God will use this time to draw us all closer together and to grow our faith like never before!  He will speak His love over my fears AND theirs... and will strengthen us every step of the way.  I KNOW this!!!  He is already at work - showing His faithfulness - His provision - His hand of protection and guidance - and His peace!  To God be the glory!


So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  Isaiah 41:10

This is eternal life; that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.  John 17:3

Fluid, confirmations, and a whole lotta drama...

I woke up this morning and went to the hospital for some more tests.  I felt like the "talk" of the hospital - all the nurses knew me by name and referred to me as "the accreta patient".  They were all super sweet, but made me feel a little anxious.  The nurse from maternal fetal medicine that was doing the tests said that she has only seen 3 cases of accreta in her 17 years of working for them!  I always knew I was special! :P

Little Ezekiel was not so responsive on the non-stress test, so they had to do a biophysical profile (BPP) on him.  They had to "buzz" him several times to get him to respond and I could tell the nurse was concerned.    He passed the BPP, but my amniotic fluid level had dropped to 7.5, which is not so good!  I am 34 weeks exactly today... exactly as far I was when I was when we found out that I was out of fluid with Judah (his level was 3.2) and he was delivered by emergency c-section.  It was a very traumatic delivery, and I was terrified that Judah was not going to make it.  Afterwards, I was told that he (Judah) was under extreme distress and wouldn't have survived much longer in there.  This was a very sick little Judah when he was 1 day old...

I tried hard not to panic... but it was a "bawling" kind of morning!  In Judah's birth, there were no other issues to take into consideration, however, this time, we REALLY don't want any reason to do surgery before the scheduled day!  Tuesday - only 3 more days!!!  Dr. Sullivan is out of town, but Dr. Cohen has me going back to the hospital in the morning for another fluid check and non-stress test.  I was told to go home and guzzle as much water as possible - and lie on my left side as much as possible.  I am drinking like crazy and praying that my fluid level rises!  If my fluid is below 6 in the morning, they will admit me tomorrow... if it is below 5, they will have to do surgery a.s.a.p.  Please pray that the fluid level rises!!!

Generally, I am not a very "dramatic" person... and this is A WHOLE LOT OF DRAMA for me!  I am somewhat amused at the extreme changes of emotions and how the slightest thing can "set me off".  It MUST be hormones!  Also, God has changed my heart on the matter of the hysterectomy.  I WAS devastated about the "loss" of my ability to conceive more children - and am now SO excited that this is my last pregnancy!  I don't think I could any of this again!

I left the hospital, and slowly regained composer... again!  God gently reminded me that He already knew ALL of this before I did - and that He had already confirmed to me repeatedly (it takes me awhile to get things sometimes) that Ezekiel would be ok!  After we had found out that we were having a boy, we had a "list" of possible names for the baby.  After Tom weeded through my list, we only had a couple of names left (we have a hard time agreeing on names).  I was anxious to have a name for this baby, and had been praying for God to confirm one of the names on our list.  God doesn't always work with "our" lists!  I woke up one morning a couple weeks after finding out it was a boy with the name "Ezekiel" on my heart and mind.  I didn't really like the name and tried to ignore it.  However, it wouldn't go away.  My devotions that morning was a reading out of Ezekiel and I mentioned the name to Tom (who up to this point was adamant about naming the baby "Tomson" - as in Tom's son).  He immediately agreed... and then said that Tomson would be his middle name!  I was in shock!  I then looked up what Ezekiel meant, and it means "God will strengthen"... and I was sold (I love name meanings).  So Ezekiel Tomson it is... and how that blesses my heart now - because I KNOW that my God will strengthen this little guy in the coming days/weeks!

Another time when I was really worrying about Ezekiel, I had confided my fears to a close friend.  The next day, I flipped my calendar (I think it was April 1st) and the verse was Ezekiel 34:26... showers of blessing are coming your way!  Again, about a month later, being slightly hardheaded, I was still concerned because I had spent too much time researching all the "could go wrongs" with my condition... and not enough time trusting and believing what God had already confirmed.  Praise God we serve a God that is patient and loving, and apparently doesn't mind repeating Himself!  I had been having nightmares that Ezekiel was stillborn.  I had only told 2 people, but was tormented by the thought constantly (it's embarrassing to admit now - after looking back).  The next Sunday at church, a friend came up to me and had said that she had been reading Ezekiel in her Bible and that God had put our baby on her heart, so she began to pray for him and me.  She continued to tell me that God wanted me to know that Ezekiel was going to be "full of life" (her exact words) and that he was going to bring such blessing and joy to our family!  I started crying, amazed once again at the goodness of God, at which point Dakota (my oldest daughter - and one of the two people I had told of my fear) walked up - and heard what she was saying, and also began crying!  God was building my faith because He knew that I would NEED to fall back on that at such a time as this!!!

I was reminded of all three of these incidences in the last 24 hours!  Just in time to get the "bad" fluid level results today!  God's perfect timing!

I am continuously amazed at the general "peace" that I feel!  Not that I don't believe God's word, but to experience that "peace that passes all understanding" first hand (when everything inside me wants it all to just be a bad dream) truly is a miracle and an answer to prayer.  I have such joy just sitting here watching my kiddos and their funny little antics... and am astounded by the love, prayers, and support of so many!  My periods of panic and tears are getting fewer and further between - as I confess and walk out my faith in the only ONE who can carry this burden!

All that being said, please pray for my fluid level to stay above 5 until Tuesday (8 would be even better) and for wisdom for the doctors about whether to have me stay in the hospital for the next few days, or home with my family (which I would prefer)!  Also, please lift up Tom in prayer as he is carrying the "weight" of childcare, cooking, cleaning, work, AND making sure I stay down!  He seems so tired and strained, but truly has been a rock of love and support these last couple of days!  Thank you all again - believing for a miracle!

MRI results and surgery plan...

On June 18th, I received a phone call from my OB, Dr. Sullivan (while sitting at the pool with my kiddos and some friends).  He told me that they had the MRI results in and the "accreta" was worse than originally expected.  He said that he had stayed up from 2 a.m. until 5:30 a.m. the night before pouring over the results of the MRI and reading up on "medical studies" of situations similar to mine.  I praise God for a doctor that loves his patients and truly goes above and beyond!   He was giving me details... but I didn't hear much after he stated that there was "NO way" that I could be awake during the delivery (that was my biggest fear since the diagnosis of accreta).  He must have sensed that I "shut down" and offered to meet Tom and I at the hospital in an hour to go over everything and run some more tests on me and baby.

At the hospital, Dr. Sullivan explained that the placenta has grown into my uterine muscle (increta) and that it was also intertwined in my cervix.  Where the placenta has grown into the uterine muscle is "posterior" (meaning the back of my uterus) which limits the view that the MRI could see, therefore, we are not sure where the placenta stops or if it has grown into anything past the uterine muscle.  The good news about this is that little Ezekiel has been thriving on the blood supply and other necessary nutrients that the placenta provides (hence him being in the 90th percentile)... but the bad news is that it adds another "hiccup" in surgery due to the fact that they won't really know what they are dealing with until they open me up and can get a good view behind my uterus.  The blood vessels behind the uterus are larger which can increase the risk of blood loss.  Although the doctor doesn't believe it is likely, it is possible that the placenta has grown into my bladder and/or bowels... which is something that they are prepared for, but is REALLY not good - so that can be another area of "focused" prayer!
The doctor spent a good hour talking to Tom and I and going over each step of the meticulously planned out procedure.  I begged to be awake during the delivery, but was told it is not an option.  They will "prep" me for surgery on Monday, and then after they put me "under" on Tuesday a.m., they will work as fast as they can to get everything in place to minimize blood loss before they deliver little Ezekiel.  They will put "balloon stints" in my groin and in the other arteries leading to my uterus.  A urologist will then tie off my bladder, ureters, and urethra to keep them out of the way for the remainder of the surgery.  Dr. Sullivan will do a vertical incision from just above my belly button down to my pelvic bone to deliver baby.  There will be a NICU team in the room that will be ready with everything Ezekiel will need to get him stabilized.  Once they get baby out, they will then "blow up" the balloon stints to slow down the blood flow to my uterus.  Then they are going to clamp the cord and try not to disturb the placenta to once again minimize blood loss.   They will then place an inflated balloon into my uterus to apply pressure and keep it expanded (as if baby was still in there) and will sow up my uterus with the balloon inside (and the placenta still intact inside also).  Dr. Sullivan will then perform the hysterectomy - removing my uterus and cervix, but leaving my ovaries.  They will then do any necessary repairs to my bladder and/or any other organs that may have been affected.  The surgery can take anywhere from 3-11 hours... depending on many factors, but mainly, controlling the blood loss.
Between now and then (Monday morning), Dr. Sullivan is at a wedding in New Jersey!  I was "commanded" to go home and lie down and NOT get up for anything (other then potty and an occasional shower).  Yesterday was my first day of "true" bed rest - and it was torturous and relaxing at the same time (I am a doer).  I have "made it" to 34 weeks without ever "really" obeying the bed rest request - which is a miracle in itself!  However, Dr. Sullivan made it VERY clear that my life and Ezekiel's life depend on me "making it" to next Tuesday without any issues... therefore, I sit! 
Dr. Sullivan has put together a "team" of doctors and surgeons that will all be present throughout the entire surgery.  There will be a intervention radiologist, an anesthesiologist, a urologist, my OB/Gyn doctor, a high risk OB/Gyn, a blood bank team, and a NICU team.  They will have my blood type on hand before the surgery, along with several "sites" previously prepped on me in case a blood transfusion is needed during surgery.  Because of the complexity of the surgery, they cannot perform it on the normal OB floor.  I will be in the main hospital operating room where they will be better equipped to handle my surgery.  Because of this, Tom will not be allowed in the operating room, and will not be able to see me or Ezekiel until we are both stabilized and in ICU (or NICU for Ezekiel).  They will not move Ezekiel to the NICU until he is "awake" and stabilized.
So... that is all the nitty gritty details for those of you that wanted to know.  Even writing this, I have a "peace that passes all understanding"!  I know that I "should" be panicking - and I do feel it try to rise up every once in awhile - but I feel so confident that God is going to bring a great testimony out of all of this!  He has given me many songs in the night and verses of comfort and "victory"!  I know that the prayers of the righteous are bringing peace to my heart and that of my family!  God is showering me with His love - as I strive to keep my focus on Him and trust in Him during this trying time!  I (and my family) have been SOOOO incredibly blessed by the prayers, messages, texts, and encouragement.  We already have meals set up for almost everyday next week and childcare for all the kids so that Tom can be free to be with me and/or Ezekiel and Dakota can be free to be with Ezekiel (and me once I am out of ICU).  It is such a comfort and blessing to know that my family is in good hands and that everyone will be pouring love into them while I am in the hospital! God is so good - and the love and support of my church family has been incredible!  My heart will forever be grateful!
My big prayer requests:  for God's hand of protection over baby Ezekiel to "handle" the anesthesia well, and recover quickly;  for minimal blood loss during surgery and protection over possible complications (blood clots, spinal injury, etc.);  wisdom and guidance for the doctors/surgeons;  for peace over my other children while I am in the hospital;  for my body to be "strong enough" after surgery to make milk so that I can nurse Ezekiel;  and most of all - for God to be glorified in this whole situation!  Thank you prayer warriors! 

The beginning of my story...

Written June 12, 2013...


This is a little bit of my story after being diagnosed with placenta previa and placenta accreta.  I was asked to be a guest on another "accreta survivor" blog and have since decided to start my own "blog" to keep family and friends up to date over the next couple of weeks.  This is what Jennifer Plastow (accreta survivor blog) posted on my behalf.  I will try to update soon... as soon as I can manage all the thoughts in my head into something readable!
   I am 36 years old and currently pregnant with my 8th lil blessing (7th pregnancy - as my 5th is adopted, but that's another story).  We are having a little boy(our 6th son), Ezekiel Tomson, and I can't wait to see/hold/love on this newest little gift from God! 
I married the love of my life 13 years ago!  My first 3 pregnancies were fairly uneventful with no REAL issues (now that I know what REAL issues are).  Seventeen days after my 3rd was born, I had an emergency D&C, followed by blood transfusions and nearly died....I was told I had a "retained placenta" (now I question whether it was accreta). My 4th I had a c-section because he was transverse.  We then adopted a beautiful little boy that God dropped in our laps (not really that easy, but God definitely made it known that he was "ours") after 3 1/2 years of infertility!  Of course, we found out we were pregnant when he was 3 months old and our 6th was born via c-section at 36 weeks after many weeks of bedrest due to pre-term labor (he was transverse also).  Our 7th, also transverse, was born via emergency c-section at 34 weeks due to pre-term premature rupture of membranes.  He was very sick and needed a lot of help those first couple weeks, but is a beautiful, busy, full of life toddler now!
This pregnancy has been a little "scary" from the start.  Don't get me wrong, I was "desperate" for another baby and pleaded with God to conceive!  I KNEW that God had another little one for us, because I also pleaded that He would take the longing away if He didn't have another one coming!
Throughout the pregnancy, I kept seeing the word "victory" everywhere and was boggled because I also kept seeing the number "17" all over (exit numbers, the clock, addresses, license plates, etc.) to the point where I looked it up on the Internet.  Guess what the number 17 stands for under "biblical meaning of numbers"?!?!?  Yes, VICTORY!!!  I was sure that we were having a baby girl (after 4 boys in a row) and I was going to name her "Victory Ana"... However, at 19 weeks, we found out we are having another little boy (which I am thrilled about now)!  We also found out that I had complete placenta previa and that were "concerned" about a possible accreta and they wanted to see me back in a month.  I was put on pelvic rest and modified bed rest (which to be honest didn't really slow me down a bit).  I was completely naive about the situation, and was still processing the "boy" factor along with "what does victory mean then", and trying to keep up with 7 children and homeschool!  At my next ultrasound (23 weeks), the doctor said that they "see" an accreta and explained a little about what that meant.  They were more strict about my "bed rest" and wanted to keep an eye on things. 
I am generally a very optimistic person (although my husband would disagree - because I am also a realist) and after minimal research (and a little bit of panic) I began to "see" that that is why God had been "speaking" victory to my heart!  It was bigger then a name - it was His confirmation that He would provide the "victory" in this horrible, life threatening condition that I had never heard about, much less thought was even possible!  Up until that point, my goal had been to carry my baby to "term", terrified of another "emergency" delivery and sick baby (that nearly broke my heart)... but now I had to prevent pre-term labor at all costs (most of which is honestly out of my hands) because it could mean the life of my baby, and me!  All this in the middle of a move (a family of 9)!
I wish I could say that I've stood on that "word" and all has gone well... But I can't!  Most days, I feel like a train wreck emotionally, but am striving to be led by the truth of God's word and my faith (which is soooo strong one minute - then crumbles the next)!  I praise God for the friends and family that have been my "Prayer warriors" when I didn't have the strength or faith to lift up my eyes - and temporary lost sight of "where" my help comes from!  I was devastated over the possibility of a hysterectomy and the "thought" that it was a "life threatening" condition (although I don't think at that point I even understood the magnitude of it).  I know God only allowed me to "see" as much as I could handle at that point (cause believe me, I "googled" accreta to death)! 
After the confirmed accreta at 23 weeks, I shared with my  "mom's group" and our church to be praying for the situation.  God is soooo good!  We had over 40 people, some that we hardly knew, bring us meals, help us pack/move/paint/clean/etc!  It was overwhelming to see the love of God poured out on our family!  God put it on many people's heart to fast and pray, and they were faithful!  When I went for my ultrasound at 27 weeks, the doctor (a different doctor at maternal fetal medicine) saw no evidence of an accreta, and when I questioned about it, she said "I see no accreta" and even showed me the "dividing lines" between my placenta and uterus.  I was amazed and KNEW that God had done a miracle!  I cried happy tears calling and texting everyone that would listen to tell them the news!  The next four weeks were much easier!  I released myself from bed rest just in time to move (although with the complete placenta previa I knew I still needed to take it easy).  I went out of town to a homeschool convention which is one of the highlights of my year (that I never would have been allowed to do with a looming accreta).  Went camping with my family and some friends from church, and truly enjoyed myself, and my very active growing lil bundle of love!  Mostly though, the "weight" of accreta was off my mind - which truly was a miracle!!!!
However, when I went back to maternal fetal medicine at 32 weeks (last week), they informed me that they see the accreta again... And now time is ticking!  I was devastated!  I was confused - I had truly believed that God healed me!  I now see the bigger picture... That God saw that I needed to stop and refocus and "enjoy" life again - and He used that "4 week break" from this dreaded condition to humble me (He is what holds my family together, not me).  He carried the burden for me, cause He knew I couldn't!  That's a mighty big God!  He loves me!!!!
It's only been a week since my "re-diagnosis", and a lot has happened!  I've had caboodles of tests, shots, etc. and feel like I live at the doctor and hospital right now!  I've had MANY sleepless nights... Of prayer, reflection, thinking, reading blogs of accreta survivors, and stories of those that did not make it!  I've pondered my life like never before... Knowing that there is a 10% chance of dying within the next couple weeks makes you think! 
I'm still clinging to the "victory" that God has so clearly spoken to me and have pled with Him to allow me the privilege of growing old with my husband (an amazing man) and raising the AMAZING children that He has blessed us with!  I love them soooo very much and want them to KNOW me and my love for them as they grow!
So.... That's my accreta story, so far!  I had an MRI today (33 weeks), along with my first dose of steroids for babies lungs.  I will know the results "early" next week and then the "team" of doctors and surgeons will plan for my surgery.  The waiting continues...
To God be the glory! 
Love and blessings,
Jody Good :)