Ryland's Surgery Update

Late yesterday evening we heard from Shane that Ryland's surgery had gone well! The doctors only had to remove the middle section of his right lung instead of the middle & lower section that the x-rays had shown needed to be removed. The surgery lasted about 4 - 5 hours, and when we briefly talked to Shane, Ryland had just gone into recovery. The late hours of yesterday and the early hours of this morning were really crucial. Ryland's body had to accept all the changes from the surgery, as well as a blood transfusion.

Just a few minutes ago, I received an email telling us that Ryland is doing very well! His body is seeming to accept everything so far. He is resting and in stable condition!! Shane and Shana's email also said that during surgery, the doctors removed the tube from his left lung and replaced the one in his right lung to continue draining off blood. The doctors have said that they are hoping to wean Ryland off of the ventilator within a week and move him to a regular room where he can continue to recover and begin therapy.

We need to continue to pray for Ryland's body to recover quickly and completely. Since he has been laying still for 12 - 13 days, his muscles are very, very weak. Because of the downs syndrome, he has more obstacles to overcome. Shane told us that he probably won't be able to hold up his head on his own when he wakes up. He will also more than likely have to relearn everything. (crawling, walking, etc.)

Let's continue praying for the Reese family. Pray that their strength would be renewed as they begin the road to recovery, and that Ryland's body won't take long to remember how to do things. Pray that his muscles would quickly find their strength again, and that therapy wouldn't be as tough as the doctors are saying. Let's all agree together for God to receive the glory for Ryland's healing!!