Pre warn you - this is a novel - Wanted to share as I thought it might help??!! Hope it isn't too full on or boring.

It really is quite an emotional time isn't it .... please don't take this the wrong way but try to be strong & happy that the time is nearly here for this exciting event - it really is a big milestone for our little guys. I think while you definately need to be prepared (wish I was as it is the little things that make everything so much simpler), don't think too much about it or doubt yourself - you are COMPLETELY on the right track & doing all the right things so you will make all the difference to Liam's procedure and recovery . I hated how an 'experienced' mother discounted things and tried to sugar coat for me so I will say you do have a bit to get through (I know every situation is different but) if you find the experience similar to me ..... it will definately have its challenging moments. You know what though - it is ALL SO WORTH IT and our little guys just take it all in their stride (I think it is sometimes hard for us because we put 'adult' thought to it). To be fair - I think the mother was right in the sense that the 'unknown' is the worst part. Not to get heavy but I found this time to be quite an unexpected 'experience' and above all the challenges etc it was very positive in many ways for us. Look at it this way - At the very least we get extra time to get to know our little men in a way other mums don't have the opportunity to do - that is special!!!

As for sleep - In hospital Alex basically sleept for small periods frequently (24/7) for the first 4 - 5 days but then basically back to normal but it was unsettled sleep so he ocassionally woudl wake and need a hug and then be happy to go straight back to sleep. He turns alot in his sleep and the arm splints would restrict that so that was a pain. He woudl get frustrated and wake up grumpy, but again, he took it in his stride and he kind of had them sorted by the end He was a little irritable in general (understandable) but dealt very well with the whole thing. By day 6 he was sucking (he was allowed - just check with your doc if you need to stop him doing this though as some cases need them to not suck apparently) and by day 8, although he was still on panadol, he was almost my normal little man. By day 10 the splints were off he was happy as and eating like a machine. He had a GREAT sleep that night (no splints YAY) and has really never looked back.

The no food is a tough one. As Alex was littler, it may have been a bit easier than what it would be now - not sure. I made sure I gave him food and then clear fluids (I assume you have the two seperate times) at the last avail opportunity even though he was not on schedule and not overly interested - at least he took some and had a bit extra in his belly. Then in was just play play play to keep him entertained and try not to think about it. Not easy, but I don't know what else we could do??!!

I do hope there is some help in my big ramble here. There is just so many things that I think of that I woudl like to have known - if that makes sense. Every experience and clefty is different but stay positive and just know that you are prepared and things will be fine. Alex's op went better than anticipated and I am sure Liam's will be fine too - these surgeons are really talented and our kids amazingly special - what a great combo . Thinking of you.
Del