Ramping up for Strong

Evening Rian at a day old in Ithaca- Hat a handmade gem of Laurie Ahlers of Cornell

We are ramping up for a big week for Evening Rian. With Wednesday's impending surgery we are preparing mentally and physically. Packing up the bags, compiling some good books, and building a list of additional questions for the surgical team.

For folks out of the area - we are headed for care at the Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong which is connected with the University of Rochester Medical School (http://www.stronghealth.com/services/childrens/index.cfm). I had great success as a kid with a surgery there and we have had good interactions with the staff thus far. Ruth and I would take her to any end of the earth for this procedure, and feel that the surgeon and team there are at the top of the list. We are happy to be returning home to where much of our families reside for the operation.

Evening has been great. Still wrestles with some gas issues, but is looking fantastic. I will say that she - along with her father and grandfather - were not too happy during the Ducks and Bills performances this weekend - though she looks and acts like a normal month old beauty. That's the wildest thing with this whole ailment - she looks and acts fine outwardly - though inside is struggling.

We still find it hard to believe that she requires surgery - and this quickly - but are pleased to have such a high level of care and such a tremendous support from folks around the world. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Please continue thinking of us - Wednesday 10AM EST is the big day/time. I will do my best to keep you updated. Thanks again for all.