Yesterday was one of those days that every mother fears – the day you find yourself in your car following behind an ambulance that has one of your children in it.
The day started off fine. I decided that I would treat Cali to a pedicure. I only have a month and a half left before Cali goes off to college and I want to cherish every moment of it.
As we were sitting in the chairs getting our toes done Cali began to feel nauseous and lightheaded. As I turned to tell the technician that she needed to go to the bathroom Cali began to have what we thought at the time was a seizure. Fortunately for us there was a nurse and another medical personnel (can’t remember what they told me they were) in the salon too and they felt it was a seizure so 911 was called.
After about 30 seconds (which seemed like forever at the time) Cali came to and asked what was going on. The ambulance arrived and off we went to the hospital.
Of course every “worse case scenario” went through my head during the short 10 minute drive to the hospital in between calls to my husband – who is out of town (aren’t they always out of town when emergencies happen!?), to my parents and to my good friend, neighbor and nurse Debbie – she is always the first one we call in an emergency!
After several hours at the hospital and lots of tests later it was determined that she had not had a seizure (thank goodness) and that she had just passed out. Yes – my daughter is a fainter. The more technical, medical term for it is Vasovagal Syncope.
She has passed out two other times – both due to intense pain. There was no pain this time but nausea and, lightheadedness can bring it on as well as dehydration and low blood sugar.
I knew she was going to be alright when she asked for a hamburger and said, “Is this going to be on the blog?” So, I couldn’t disappoint her – it’s on the blog! And yes, we stopped for a hamburger on the way home – neighbor and nurse Debbie joined us for lunch too – thank you Debbie!
I was also sure to clarify with the Emergency Room doctor that this was not a “pedicure problem” and that future pedicures were possible – he assured me they were. Especially since Cali and I both only have half a pedicure right now!
The people at the nail salon were wonderfully helpful and even called to check on her later in the day.
Three hours later, emotionally drained but incredibly happy and relieved we returned home. I was pretty much good for nothing the rest of the day. Cali took it easy, watching a movie and reading and I spent a lot of time just staring at her and giving her kisses.
How grateful I am for the good outcome we had, I realize that is not the case for all parents following behind the ambulance and my prayers tonight will be extra long.
I am grateful for the scare I had today -because of it I am a little more thankful for my children, a little more respectful of how fragile life is and a little more grateful for the many blessings I have in my life.
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