"Lucky"

Today we did the familiar routine at Casey Eye Institute. 50 minute drive to SW Portland, pull into the parking structure and get a free permit, find a spot and take the elevator to the 5th floor clinics. Check in, play in the waiting area, listening for the call of "Abigail" to usher us into a room. Watch professionals hold Abby's head in various positions as they use multiple toys, stickers, videos and funny noises to get her to look in the direction they want. But there was one thing about today that was not routine. As they watched her eyes in all these positions, she had less limitations than ever. Across the board, in all positions but one (and there are at least nine positions for each eye that they're looking at) Abby's eyes tracked, worked together, and were significantly improved.

We listened with smiles as the doctor said that, apart from a mild limitation because her superior oblique muscle is too tight (they call it Brown's syndrome,) her eyes are functioning normally. He doesn't see any more surgery in the foreseeable future.  We are so very grateful.

Jeff was able to go with me, and asked two very insightful questions.  The first one was about the texture and consistency of Abby's superior oblique muscle.  Both of us had heard the doctor say it was stringy and more elastic that usual - which we assumed would be potential for long term degeneration, but the doctor clarified today that he cut off all the stringy stuff and sutured the good muscle onto the eye.  And I quote, "That's not coming off."  

Jeff's second question is the reason I'm blogging tonight. (besides giving Abby's update to all of you who care)  Jeff said, "You seem to have attached that muscle to exactly the right spot. How did you do that?" And Dr. _____ said, "I was lucky."

Now, I have a few comments about this:

1. Dr. _____ is an exceptionally experienced and talented surgeon. His comment is humble.

2. There was no medical GPS system telling him where to attach the muscle, it was a unique and challenging surgery.

3. I don't personally believe in "luck."

So, if "lucky" means that God is watching out for us and working on our behalf.  If "lucky" means that Abby's body can grow straight and true.  If "lucky" means that I've been witness to and receiver in a miracle. Then I'm abundantly grateful to be "lucky."

Jen  :)