So far the news is good in that the OR nurse just met with my wife, informing her everything is going well and my daughter is doing great. In the meantime my wife decided it's best I go to work today. Besides my daughter didn't want me to be there while she was prepped. It shouldn't be more than a couple more hours before she hits the recovery room. I'll post an update later this evening.
For those who don't know, (I'll spare the details to honor her request and wishes) my daughter Amanda has endured several outpatient procedures since the age of 2, and 2 previous major operations, the last one being the most complex and critical. The first 2 were done at 4 and 5 years old. It was inevitable she would face further procedures when she reached her teens. Now that she's 13 reality has come to roost.
It absolutely breaks my heart to watch her go through what would traumatize a person 3 times her age. But I'm also proud of how mature she's become, dealing with each procedure keeping such a strong, positive attitude, and not letting any of this interfere with her school work and social life (you oughta hear Amanda sing...she can give Miley Cyrus a run for the money
). I also must thank the Lord for my wife and her strength, knowledge, and ability to guide both our kids in a path of excellence and keeping Amanda's ordeal very transparent. I couldn't ask for a better family.
Thank you everyone for the kind words and prayers. It will mean the world to her.