The storm has passed, at last! / La tormenta ha cesado, al fin!

Dearest family and friends,

We cannot begin to thank so many of you for your sweet messages, prayers and for donating for Lorenzo's surgery. After many sleepless nights, but NEVER letting go of our faith, Lorenzo was able to undergo the surgery he needed.

We arrived San Antonio, TX on December 9th. Lorenzo had his head scan and first appointment with Dr. Jimenez the following day. We were so amazed by Dr. Jimenez and knew immediately he was the right doctor to perform this surgery. How grateful we are for finding Dr. Jimenez! Things started to unfold quickly as we did not have all the money for the surgery until the very last minute. We have witnessed a miracle.

On Thursday, December 11th, Lorenzo went into surgery at 10:08am and came out at 11:40am. I think it was the longest 90 minutes we have ever experienced. Dr Jimenez (neurosurgeon) and Dr Barone (Plastic Surgeon) met with us to let us know everything went beautifully. It was a tough surgery as Lorenzo's metopic bone (forehead) was very thick and very hard. He lost quite a bit of blood but did not need any blood transfusion.

We were able to enter to see Lorenzo about an hour later. As a parent, you are never prepared to see your child like that but have been able to count our blessings as we know it was nothing compared to what other parents go through. We were told we could expect an average of 8 hrs of fuzziness, crankiness and irritability. Fortunately, Lorenzo was smiling almost immediately and ready to play. Everyone was amazed with his quick recovery.

He was released from the hospital the day after surgery close to noon. He had some swelling on his forehead but he was still able to see and play with his brother. The incision is only 1 1/2 inches and is fully covered by his hair so no one can even tell.

During the weekend we were able to do some sightseeing as Lorenzo had no activity restrictions. We were very blessed to have Sea World, San Antonio donate a couple of passes to enjoy the park for a day. We can tell you it was a great stress reliever.... just what we needed!

The following Monday (15th) Lorenzo had a head scan, then Tuesday was helmet day. He looks so adorable with his helmet and it makes us feel good that his head is protected against any flying objects, toys, etc, hahaha! Finally, Wednesday we saw Dr. Jimenez and went for readjustment of the helmet.

This trip has been an eye opener, it has been a humbling experience and has helped us recognize the hand of Our Heavenly Father even more in our daily lives. We made some great new friends and Lorenzo has now a few helmet buddies. We are thankful we had so many great people around us, couples who were going through the same experience. How great it was to go through this experience. We made new friends, we learned from others, we met great people, our son received the care he needed, our hearts grew stronger, our faith was strengthened, a miracle was witnessed. Thank you!

We send you all of our love during this holiday season, and pray for your protection and well-being. We hope someday we are able to return all the great blessings we have received during this time. Again, thank you!

We love you,
Jorge, Sheila, Emilio and Lorenzo