Mohammed's Heart Surgery

Saturday, August 22, 2009
"Goodbye!"

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Turned away by surgeons in Baghdad, Iran, Turkey, and even at one of Israel's leading heart centers--how thankful we are that Mohammed was able to have both surgeries he needed at the Wolfson Medical Center, and returned home to Iraq today completely healed. He's grown much in love and grace during the four months we've been together, and his last thought at the airport today was of the friends he's left behind among our staff in Jerusalem. Click the play arrow below to have a look:

Thursday, August 20, 2009
Time to Celebrate!
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Today Mohammed and his father entered the hospital with their bright and smiling faces knowing that if all went well, today would be Mohammed's last echocardiogram! Mohammed seemed nervous a few times during the echo when the doctor seemed to pause in one place for a while, thinking that there might be an additional complications with his heart. However, everything went very smoothly, and the doctor said that his heart looked wonderful! We celebrated this news with 3 shekel ice cream - yum! Mohammed and his father will be leaving Jerusalem tomorrow, heading back to their home and family in Iraq. We are all in awe of the grace and goodness that God has shown in this little boy's life! Please continue to pray for his family as they head home.

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Thursday
August 13, 2009
A Happy Echo
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Mohammed went today for what is believed to be his second to last echo before he can return home. While this is great news, both he and his father were hoping that somehow this would be the very last echo in Israel, so they were somewhat subdued at first. But after a few minutes the joy of realization came through that perhaps as soon as ten days from now, they will return home at last. Abu Mohammed continues to be so attentive about every detail of Mohammed's care,
and is filled with thanks. He also assists the other moms with translation and other matters concerning help for the chldren. Now the countdown begins for their final departure, and we all want to make it count and fill it with good things for them. Please pray with us as we enjoy the coming days together.

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Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Celebrating the Miracles
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This evening our Jerusalem staff and all of our families went to a local park to celebrate with a picnic the miraculous reality that Mohammed, Akram, Hindereen and Sidra are all finished with their surgeries. In each case there have been extreme challenges, and for Akram and Mohammed, apart from the Save A Child's Heart doctors, they would have had no chance at a heart surgery and a full life.

The families are all very grateful to God as well, and to the doctors and nurses at Wolfson, and to all of us who have helped make their surgeries possible. We thank God for all these lives and the investment of His lovingkindness which has been made while they've been with us this far.

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Thursday
August 6, 2009
Good Echo Result Today
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Mohammed is recovering well after his most recent surgery. Today we went along with Mohammed and his father to have an echo done and remove some sutures from his chest, and the nurses and doctor say he is doing wonderfully. They want to see him back in one week for another echo, and Mohammed and dad are really looking forward to going back to Iraq very soon. Thank you for your continued prayers for this family.

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Monday
August 3, 2009
Mohammed Checks Out
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Today Mohammed and Hindereen were both able to return to the house in Jerusalem! After being tested for swine flu and being monitored for their fevers, they were both in good enough condition to come home. They were given preventative antibiotics because of the incidents of swine flu that have occurred in the ward, and they will return for a check up on Thursday.

In the waiting room Justin, Robin and I were able to hang out and play with the excited kids and parents. Mohammed and his father were there, also Hindereen and his grandmother, Deya and her mother, and even Akram came out of ICU to come and say hello with his mother!

Mohammed and Justin had a fun time! They played around and made lots of faces, you could tell Mohammed was excited to be with him, and eager to come home. They were making silly faces, and Mohammed told us he wants to be a teacher when he grows up!

We had fun playing around until we all got in the cars and returned happily home.

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Sunday
August 2, 2009
Mohammed Back to Hospital
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We brought Mohammed and Hindereen to Wolfson Medical Center in Tel Aviv last night after we discovered they both were running a fever. After the urgent problem with Sidra that morning and the hospital informing us that a large number of the children there were also suffering from an unknown fever or virus we did not want to take any risks. Mohammed's temperature seems to be fluctuating up and down between normal and fever levels while Hindereen's temperature was consistently very high. The entire children's ward is being tested to find out if it is some bug going around the hospital and who has it, the results are expected to be in tomorrow morning. Thankfully, a complication with their heart surgeries has been ruled out. At the last report Mohammed and Hindereen were both doing better than they were last night, exhibiting no symptoms apart from an elevated temperature, and pending the results of the testing, could be released as early as tomorrow.

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Thursday
July 30, 2009
Mohammed Leaves Hospital
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Mohammad was discharged today! Only five short days after his second open heart surgery in one week, Mohammad has made a miraculous and speedy recovery! After being turned away from numerous hospitals, he has now completed his entire medical journey and is completely healed.

Today was a joyous day and I could feel the relief as I entered the ward filled with the Iraqi kids and parents that would be coming "home" to Jerusalem tonight. They were all smiles and laughter, even Deya and her mother were there for a check up, and able to say hello.

After loading everyone into the van, they arrived back in Jerusalem tired but seemingly content. We plan to have a welcome home party tomorrow night with food, desserts and dancing! God is good!

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Monday, July 27, 2009
Healthy Heart and Healthy Appetite
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Mohammed's miraculous heart surgery and recovery continues, praise to God! In the ICU today when I first saw him he was sleeping soundly, already extubated and using only a nasal canula for oxygen.

Later when I entered the room I saw Mohammed sitting up in bed watching all

the visitors come and go. He smiled and waved a bit, and began chatting as I approached the bed. He is very hungry and thirsty, and particularly wanted oranges and orange juice today. His father was happy to cut and squeeze some fresh oranges for him, and wanted to continue celebrating Mohammed's recovery by offering a cup of juice and some cookies to Mary and me. He is so very grateful to God and to everyone who's helped his son that he can hardly spend any time with us without using it as an opportunity to say thank you another time.

Today Mohammed spoke to his elated mother and was excited about the reality of returning to her before long. What a joyful reunion that will be ... her son's life has been returned to all of his family through this surgery. I cannot help but wonder what amazing plan God has for the life of this very special young boy! Please join us in continuing to thank God for what He's done so far, and all He has in mind to do for Mohammed.

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Sunday, July 26, 2009
Mohammed's Second Surgery in One Week
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We arrived at Wolfson Hospital in Tel Aviv this morning bright and early at 7 am to see nine year old Mohammed off to his second open-heart surgery this week. When we first caught up to Mohammed in the pre-op room he was not his normal self. He was very stoic and seemed to be hiding a great deal of fear. However, after all the Shevet staff spent time with him, we all managed to comfort him and crack some good jokes and by the time he went into surgery he was the happy Mohammed we are used to.

Waiting with Abu (father of) Mohammed was a little easier going during this surgery, as he seemed slightly less anxious and nervous (as was I). During the wait we sat out in a courtyard prayed and enjoyed a pleasant day. I was able to talk him into eating lunch in the cafeteria after promising to let him know if I received word that the surgery was finished. Just after we finished lunch our short-term volunteer Maddison emerged from the operating room, letting us know that the surgery was completed and they would be wheeling Mohammed out shortly. At this Abu Mohammed let out a big sigh of relief, gave me a big hug and held back a few tears.

After we followed Mohammed into the ICU and were able to go in and see him, we were surprised to discover he was awake and responsive. Mohammed and his

father made eye contact and Mohammed reached out his hand to his father and his father didn't let go until a doctor made him move to run more tests.

Over the next hour several Doctors came to check on Mohammed, his pulse, his vital signs, and an echocardiogram, to make sure the surgery was a complete success.

Pending Mohammed's recovery, the operation should give him a perfectly functioning heart.

Maddison was in the OR during the surgery, here is her report:
After recently establishing a relationship with Dr. Sasson I was invited to come into 9 year old Mohammed's final surgery at 8 am this morning. Emily also came into the surgery with me, and Justin was able to stay and comfort Abu Mohammed during the 5 hours it took to complete.

The doctor was excited to show Emily and I the pictures of Mohammed's heart before and after his previous surgery. We were able to see how small the aorta was, and what an amazing job they did in enlarging it. The results of the first surgery were so amazing and unexpected, and his recovery went so well, they decided to go ahead and do this second surgery and repair the hole in his heart.

The hole was in between the two ventricles and needed to be repaired with
Gore-tex so that blood could not mix and flow between them. During the surgery Mohammed was put on bypass, which is basically an artificial heart and lung machine that pumps oxygenated blood to the body during the surgery, completely bypassing Mohammed's heart so that they are able to stop it and work more effectively on it. Once the doctors were able to open the ventricle and get a better look, they saw that the hole was a lot bigger than they had originally thought. However, this didn't seem to slow them down, or worry them in the slightest and things continued right along.

We were able to walk with Abu Mohammed as they wheeled his son into the ICU, and we were all there as Mohammed slowly started to wake up. The surgery went extremely well, and this little boy who was turned away from multiple hospitals earlier in the year, should recover and be completely fine soon!

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Thursday, July 23, 2009
Mohammed Silent and Subdued
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Today Mary and I walked quickly into the hospital excited to see Mohammed again. He was moved from the ICU into the ward yesterday because he has been recovering so well. He went in for a catheterization yesterday that reaffirmed that his body has been adjusting wonderfully to the changes in pressure that occurred as a result of his heart operation. Because he has responded so well to the surgery, if there are no complications, Mohammed will be going in for a second surgery at the beginning of next week! This is a huge unexpected blessings as initially doctors were saying it would probably be at least a year before Mohammed would be able to have his second heart surgery. Praise God for all that He has done in this little boy!

During my visit with him today he seemed rather scared and overwhelmed. He remained silent and subdued the majority of the time although he occasionally looked up at me and whispered something. At one point his big smile did come through as I started talking to him in funny voices that he likes to hear!

When I left at the end of the day Mohammed was getting drowsy and finally beginning to drift off to sleep. Please continue to pray for Mohammed as his small body is still in critical condition.

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Wednesday
July 22, 2009
Mohammed's Beautiful Repair
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I was able to walk alongside a very groggy Mohammed this morning, who was not at all sure where we were going or why. Once in the cath waiting room, Mohammed figured out what was going on and began to cry a little and try to talk his dad out of the procedure. Thankfully we didn't have to wait long before the staff was ready for Mohammed and took him in to the cath lab.

Since this catheterization was only to check the results of Sunday's surgery, we knew it wouldn't take very long. After visiting with Akram and his mom, I returned to the cath lab waiting room. Abu Mohammed greeted me with a big smile on his face saying they'd just come out to let him know they were nearly finished, and everything looked really good. Shortly thereafter Dr. Alona came out to say that she is amazed at how good Mohammed's heart repair looks. She said it is beautiful, and walked away shaking her head in wonder over the results. She told us they definitely plan to go forward with the second surgery next week which will repair holes in Mohammed's heart. We waited just a few more minutes and Mohammed was wheeled out to us in the hallway, which gave an extremely grateful Abu Mohammed a chance to say thank you to all the catheterization team.

Mohammed was wheeled into the ICU for only a short time, and then, because he's doing so well, he was moved to the ward! I couldn't help but think that if he was awake enough to realize what was happening he'd be upset, since he wanted to be in the ICU beside Akram so they could visit.

When we left the hospital late this afternoon Mohammed was still sleeping, and at last his father was able to get some much-needed rest too in the chair beside his son.

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Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Mohammed Recovering; to Cath in the Morning
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Today's visit to Mohammed brought more good news on his recovery. Doctors had allowed Mohammed to eat and drink by the time we were able to see him. He was glad to see us, but more sleepy than yesterday and under more sedation. His father is such an excellent caregiver for Mohammed, and has requested soup from the moms in Jerusalem for tomorrow so Mohammed will eat well and rebuild his strength quickly.

While we were visiting today, Abu Mohammed called me to his side and pulled out a paper which he explained was a letter of thanks he's written which he wanted on the Internet:

To all my friends around the world especially from Iraq, America, Israel, and Jerusalem:

I thank you alot for your goodness and your prayers for healing for my son Mohammed in his first operation (the artery between his heart and his body). It was causing pressure on the lungs and that is why he needed the surgery (a miracle from God). And his case was sent to different hospitals around the world but they couldn't do the surgery. I thank you once again for your prayers. Please pray for his next surgery which is closing the holes in his heart. Special thanks for the doctors in Wolfson Hospital in Israel.

At the same time, I presented him with some of the prayer letters those of you around the world have sent to encourage Mohammed and his dad.

He enjoyed reading them, and responded with more thanks.

During the morning as the tending doctors came in to check on Mohammed they shared that the catheterization will go forward Wednesday morning. Later Abu Mohammed whispered this same information to me so that his son would not hear it and become agitated. He said Dr. Tamir had let him know about this plan, and clearly this made Abu Mohammed feel better about the second surgery planned so soon.

Although Mohammed was mostly sleeping through today's visit, every time he heard the name of his friend Akram he'd wake up and check to see if Akram was in the ICU beside him. He was comforted that he'd be there soon, and went back to sleep. Finally when Akram did arrive after surgery, and Mohammed realized they'd finished hooking up all of the post-op meds and equipment, he was insistent that Akram's bed be moved beside his. Needless to say, the nurses could not re-arrange the ICU for Mohammed, and this made him cry. We hope that eventually the two of them will be close enough together to feel each other's encouragement during their tandem recovery period.

Please pray for Mohammed and the doctors who'll perform tomorrow's catheterization, as well as his dad as he waits for the results.

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Monday, July 20, 2009
Mohammed Awake and Thirsty
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I couldn't wait to get into the ICU this morning to see Mohammed, after several phone calls to the ICU informed us that he'd done well through the night. He did wake up this morning from the anesthesia as hoped, praise to God! By the time I arrived, he was extubated, and drinking water as well as talking. He was very anxious to see his good friend Akram, but Akram was not allowed to enter the ICU, but stood at the door and waved and spoke to him very briefly. He asked if Akram could be in the ICU bed beside him after Akram's own surgery tomorrow, so they could see and talk to each other. When Dina was wheeled in, he was also concerned about the success of her surgery. In other words, he's still expressing that caring heart we'd seen before his surgery for the other children.

But once his mind was not so nobly occupied, he would turn to his dad and beg give him to give him some juice even though the doctor said he should only have water at that point.

To him it was such a big disappointment he would cry for a minute, then fall asleep again. But when he was awake, his eyes were clear and his mind was focused. He wanted to talk alot, but then got very thirsty and begged again for water...and was annoyed that his hands were tied down to keep him from removing his oxygen mask so he could better try to get his way -- it was actually comical. I left him sleeping soundly after some big sips of water soothed his agitation.

Abu Mohammed is quite overjoyed at his son's successful surgery. He said thank you over and over, and where in the past weeks he's worn a very heavy countenance, he now is wearing an encouraged smile. What a blessing for everyone to see the change! He is keeping a bedside vigil and carefully tending Mohammed. And Mohammed wanted his dad around today as he was waking up.

Dr. Sasson came by to see Mohammed while I was there, and said they are indeed hoping to be able to do the second surgery next week, and feel Mohammed will be ready. I continue to marvel at the way God is answering our prayers, and I know we can continue to trust Him to do so. Please join us in giving thanks, and continuing to pray for Mohammed, his father, and the medical team of Save A Child's Heart

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Sunday, July 19, 2009
Surgery Day At Last
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Donning a blue surgical cap and matching scrubs I walked into Mohammed’s pre-op room at Wolfson Medical Center. Where there was once a perky and playful nine-year old boy I found a child on the verge of tears shivering with fears and intermittently being overcome with waves of panic (pictured above with his father in green scrubs, and fellow heart patient Akram in blue). Mohammed's eyes darted around the room and he reached out for my hand. When he clasped his fingers around mine I could see his body visibly relax. For the next few minutes I gave petitions to the Lord for healing, calm, peace and grace. We told him that seven of us had come from the Shevet center in Jerusalem to be with him in these final moments before surgery. Each face he beheld sent new waves of calm through him.

Mohammed was asked to be a man this day as he fully realized the mortality set before him. For better or worse Mohammed had no illusions that this surgery wasn't very high-risk. He remembers well each of the four hospitals in four different countries that all said his heart was inoperable.

One of our volunteers, Emily, walked into the room and playfully began to mimic a doctor pretending to check vital signs. Akram joined in the sport and they imitated doing the actual surgery and tossing the heart about the pre-op room. Mohammed lit up with laughter.

Justin recounts that as they came to take Mohammed to the operating theater he began to cry fearfully. Akram hugged Mohammed, and the medical team graciously allowed Mohammed’s dad to hold his hand until Mohammed’s eyes closed under general anesthesia.

Thus began the wait.

We walked outside with the fragile father who was consistently blotting his eyes and trembling from time to time. The morning passed slowly with Abu (father of) Mohammed saying little, staring into the distance and answering calls from anxious relatives in Iraq.

Six hours after we last saw Mohammed we were told they were finishing up. One hour later the update came that he still had at least two more hours.

When they finally brought Mohammed up from the theater his father leapt from his chair and followed his bed into the ICU. Click the play arrow below and watch to the end to see the scene over the father's shoulder:

Outside the ICU the surgeon Lior Sasson met us and explained the surgery:

The surgery was done in two stages. In the first stage they rebuilt part of his arch, which was extremely narrow (about a 10th the side of his other arch). Using a piece of cow vein the arch was enlarged.

Following this the surgeon put a band on the aortic arch to restrict blood flow since the body was now receiving more blood, systemically, than Mohammed had ever had in his life.

All in all the surgery went better than expected and Mohammed’s pulmonary hypertension had an amazing reduction. This hypertension can often kill a young person receiving this type of surgery so late in childhood. Another remarkable development was that they feel they will be able to do the second surgery in just a few days if indeed his hypertension is as low as they suspect.   The second surgery will be to close the large VSD.

Abu Mohammed kissed Dr. Sasson’s hand and wept with relief.   We left Abu Mohammed wetting our shoulders with tears and giving thanks to God.

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Sunday, July 12, 2009
The Wait is Almost Over
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A few days ago Mohammed's father met with the leaders of the Save A Child's Heart surgical team about Mohammed's surgery, currently scheduled for this Thursday morning. During the past few weeks he has been both discouraged and frustrated at the long wait, and continually anxious for his son to have the surgery he needs. Sometimes he says he feels it's better if he goes to wait in Iraq ... he left his family and work there months ago to find the help Mohammed needs. While it's certainly worth the wait in the big picture, it's very difficult on a day to day basis to wait for something so major for such a long time. The doctors are planning to go forward with the surgery because they believe it is the only chance Mohammed has at life. At the same time, they wanted his father to be aware of the seriousness of the surgery itself, and the possible outcomes. This will be the first of two surgeries Mohammed will need, and the most difficult of the two.

Mohammed himself has been frustrated that other children have had their turns ahead of him, as he understands he must have this surgery to live. There have been a few days he's succumbed to tears; sometimes because he misses his mother and his home, and sometimes because he wants to have his turn for surgery. Many days when we return from the hospital he asks us, "Mohammed's surgery tomorrow?" or "Mohammed goes to the hospital tomorrow?" Now that the date is set he checks with us to be sure it hasn't changed. Several of us have noticed in the past few weeks that Mohammed seems to be getting more tired more quickly. Perhaps this can be attributed to the heat, but we're

all aware that this active little boy is not as active as he was recently. He has continued to endear himself to us with his spunky sense of humor, his intelligence, his creative ways to get attention, and his concern for all the other children in the house and the hospital. He came to us several months ago with a lot of anger, and has responded to the love and care, and yes, the discipline he's received here by allowing us to know the special compassionate little boy that he is.

While he waits, he asks nearly daily if he can go to the park or the beach. We've made both of these outings possible in the past, as well as a visit to the Garden Tomb, but currently are staying close to home because the doctor has said Mohammed doesn't need so much activity.

He loves to spend time with his friend Akram, feeling he's like a big brother, along with our college- aged volunteers here at the house. And Akram carries the role well. The two of them have been most satisfied hanging out together lately while either listening to Kurdish music, working on arts and crafts, kicking a ball around the courtyard, or using the office computer.

Please keep Mohammed and his dad covered in your prayers this week. They will head to the hospital on Wednesday for admission, and the surgery will begin early Thursday morning Israel time. We're praying here for a supernaturally excellent outcome for Mohammed, and supernatural peace for his father. We hope you will maintain the vigil in prayer with us as we entrust them to the skills of the doctors, and God's loving care.

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Monday, June 29, 2009
Fun in the Sun on Eve of Surgery
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After weeks and weeks of irresistible brown eyes pleading for a trip to the ocean, today Mohammed finally stepped foot in the long awaited salty water. As soon as the van stopped Mohammed bolted out and eagerly grabbed Justin's, hand and raced to the sandy shore. His first moments in the water were a hilarious sight to behold.

He was clearly shocked by the roughness of the waves and squealed as their force pushed him back onto the sand. After only a few moments in the water Mohammed got a mouth full of water as the waves were flung by the wind into his direction. He gagged and very seriously informed everyone that the experience of tasting the salty wave was, "no good, no good." Eventually, he resorted to simply laying on his belly in the shallowest part of the beach in order to let the water gently roll over his body.

All in all, Mohammed's first trip to the ocean was an exciting and fun experience for everyone involved. Even his father had some childhood fun as he and Mohammed played on the beach playground.

Praise God for fun times and hearts filled with joy, because as the word says a joyful heart is good medicine! Let's remember to pray for Mohammed during his surgery which is potentially scheduled for this coming Thursday.

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Sunday, June 7, 2009
Waiting With Mohammed
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After learning that an emergency surgery for a Gaza child had taken Mohammed's slot, we found out at the end of May that Mohammed would have to wait through the month of June for his heart surgery because Dr. Sasson, the surgeon, will be out of the country for several weeks. This was disappointing to Mohammed's dad, but I believe Mohammed was relieved since he's (understandably) apprehensive about what's ahead, and has a strong fear of needles. We've tried to help him pass the time here at the house with a few activities, along with visits to the hospital to see his buddy Hamza. In the past few weeks we've been to the park, the zoo, played games and enjoyed meals, along with just hanging out here at the house. Here are a few pictures to give you a glimpse of our time together.

We even used our courtyard as a bowling alley...

During Mohammed and his father's stay here so far, we've seen Mohammed changing from a rather angry little boy to a much sweeter and calmer one. He now generously gives hugs and offers to help with chores around the house. Abu Mohammed has not felt well and will return to the doctor for a follow-up visit tomorrow. Please keep praying for father and son as they spend time with us. Pray that they will know that the love of God is continually extended toward them in this difficult situation.

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Saturday, May 23, 2009
One Tooth Pulled, One Capped In Dental Surgery
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Yesterday on the way down to the hospital, Mohammed was better able to contain his fear and remain cordial until just before his dental surgery. The anxiety level rose as we entered the clinic, but still he was okay until they called him back for the procedure itself. He fought the effects of the initial sedative, and even the effects of the anesthesia, but at last he fell asleep and the dentist could begin her work.

While his father settled down after Mohammed's emotional display, the dentist pulled a tooth which was badly infected, and capped another which was becoming decayed. After the procedure Dr. Deeb explained that Mohammed was now ready for his heart surgery, as the amount of infection in the tooth would have been very dangerous had it gotten into Mohammed's bloodstream and gone to his heart. Even as the gum began to heal, his body would be in better health than it had been with the infected tooth in place, the doctor explained, saying it should not cause a delay in Mohammed's surgery date.

Mohammed was very agitated when he started to wake up about an hour later, crying off and on as he slept. After another hour the anesthesia wore off and Dr. Deeb convinced him to try walking around. He at first refused, saying he wanted to go home. But when it was explained to him that he couldn't go home until he was awake, he staggered around the waiting area a few times, and drank water enough to become revived. He was rewarded with a balloon and some stickers, and we were on our way.

The only challenge we had once we arrived at home was being sure Mohammed did not eat any solid food until today -- he was trying to sneak things to eat because he was so hungry!

We found out this evening that Mohammed's surgery will be delayed a few days due to a change in the surgery schedule after Hamza's several surgeries yesterday. Let's keep praying for him and his dad as we wait to find out the appointed time for Mohammed's heart to be repaired.

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Thursday, May 21, 2009
Broken Tooth Must Be Pulled
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Mohammed's father came to us a few nights ago indicating that Mohammed had a problem with a broken tooth, so we began working out a solution for treatment the next morning. Because caution is necessary when dealing with teeth and the heart, and Mohammed's heart problem is so serious, cardiologist Dr. Tamir was able to help us find the best doctor for treating Mohammed. The Save A Child's Heart program refers patients to a clinic which has an anesthetist who works with their heart cases part time, as well as a dentist, and we were able to have an appointment this morning.

Mohammed is very fearful of pain, and began to fret when he thought the tooth would be pulled this morning. As it turned out, today's visit was only a preliminary exam by both the dentist and the anesthetist so that all would be in order for tomorrow when the tooth will be removed. Mohammed was very happy once he learned he would keep his broken tooth one more day.

A woman in the waiting area became friends with him by showing him that she had just had a tooth pulled and it was not difficult. She said she would try to return to drink tea with us in the morning and see how Mohammed does.

When we left the clinic we made a quick trip over to Wolfson to see how Hamza and Shadi are doing today. Mohammed has been asking about his friend, and wanted very much to enter the ICU to see him. Since this is forbidden, we told him we'd show him a picture after Justin and I visited while he stayed outside with his good friend Akram (pictured below). It was a beautiful day and we all enjoyed sitting outside for a brief visit.

Mohammed will take an antibiotic in preparation for his procedure and needs to fast after 7:00 a.m. tomorrow. Please pray that he is able to remain peaceful until and while the doctor sedates him. It is our hope that he will still be able to undergo his heart surgery which is tentatively scheduled for early next week. But if it needs to be delayed for the tooth to heal, it will be a blessing to have the problem solved so it won't cause complications for Mohammed after surgery.

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Monday, May 11, 2009
Difficult CT Scan Requires Overnight in Hospital
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Early yesterday morning we took Mohammed down to Wolfson Hospital for a CT scan ordered by the doctors to help them "map" the vessels of his heart before his surgery. Mohammed asked me repeatedly if he would have to stay there or return to the house, and I repeatedly told him he would be back home later that day. This seemed in his mind to make the trip acceptable to him, so that he agreed to go amiably. Little did I know what a difficult day it would prove to be for Mohammed and his father.

Mohammed, like most of us, hates needles, but he shows how much he hates them quite vocally while the nurses and doctors work to do what's needed. I didn't realize that in order to have a CT he would need to have a port in his arm, but such was the case. I believe he began to doubt my word to him about coming back home at the moment he saw what was happening. Although he was not quite as violently upset yesterday as he was on Tuesday while being prepped for his Wednesday catheterization, he was still very unhappy and wanted everyone to know it. I talked to the doctor and made sure I'd understood correctly about him returning to the house after the test, and she said yes. I reassured Mohammed and his father, and we waited for our turn to go get the test. Mohammed had to fast from food and liquids from 4 AM, so we were hoping his test would be early, and he kept a good attitude about it most of the morning, occasionally peeking into his pack at the cookies he'd have later. He politely refused the many offers of food from the hospitable Palestinian patients visiting Akram's room where we waited. There was a computer problem keeping the ID labels from printing, and we had to wait till around 11 AM before we were told to go over for the test. All of us were relieved, and Dr. Ruth even walked with Mohammed to help comfort him because of his fear that this test would hurt. I waited outside for their return, expecting happy faces when all was done, but instead father, son and doctor walked out with very serious looks on their faces. A small sized needle had been inserted in Mohammed's arm for the test, and when the iodine used in the injection was released, his vein couldn't stand the pressure, and the test could not be done. This meant he would have to have another port put in place, and another trip for a CT scan. But the worst news was that they couldn't do it in the same day because enough iodine had gone into his system that he'd have to wait overnight for another test. No wonder they looked so disappointed! At least they knew the exact reason they were having to stay, and once the initial port was removed, Mohammed found some pajamas and headed to the playroom. Later he had to go through the procedure of having a new n

eedle inserted, but seemed to fare a little better with that one. I decided not to accompany him for this round, and was thankful when he came back to the room with a smile on his face.

This morning when I called to find out the timing of the CT scan, he had already been called for the test, so Justin and I headed down to bring them home. Mohammed was roaming the halls checking on everyone and saying hello, then going to the playroom for awhile. He is full of both curiosity and concern for the other patients on the children's ward, and we have to keep an eye on him to be sure he stays put! He was happy to know we'd come to take him home, and as soon as the doctor removed the needle from his arm, he made his way to his hospital room, closed the curtain around the bed, and put on his 'street clothes' so he could leave. He was willing to wait patiently while we visited with Akram and Mohammad Hamdan, and checked on the plans for Shadi's surgery. When we were ready to go, he made the rounds saying goodbye to the nurses and doctors, and thanking them. On the way home he got a call from his mother which

gave him great pleasure. Shortly after we arrived a TV crew came over to find out about the work going on at Shevet Achim, and Mohammed was not camera shy when asked to participate in the interview.

Please keep praying for God's touch to Mohammed's body. He is such a lively and bright little boy!! Keep his father in your prayers as well; he has not felt well the last two days, and we took him for an examination to find out the problem. He may have a kidney stone, and will have a follow up visit to a doctor tomorrow. Yet he is patiently and thankfully persevering while waiting for the call to say it's Mohammed's turn for surgery. We're thankful to have the chance to wait with them and offer all the encouragement we can.

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Thursday, May 7, 2009
Complicated, Two-Part Surgery Expected
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Mohammed was not wasting any time in his hospital room waiting for us to come today, but instead was hanging out at the computer in the playroom. When we greeted Hamza and Akram in their shared room, Abu ("father of") Mohammed told us where Mohammed was, but before we could get down the hall, Hamza had let him know we were there. He came in full of smiles and hugs telling us he was ready to go. It was nice to hear that he did not require any medication as he waits for his surgery date to be scheduled.

The doctor on duty told me that Mohammed will need to return on Sunday for a CT scan, and the standard procedure of reading the PPD (tuberculosis) test. After that, we will wait together for the call about Mohammed's turn for surgery. Today the doctors spoke with Abu Mohammed about the complicated heart repair which lies ahead for his son. It will be necessary to do the surgery in two parts which will be planned one year apart. By God's grace, the first operation should be in the coming few weeks. Abu Mohammed seems understandably more relaxed now that he knows this, and is thankful for the possibility for a full life offered to his son.

Mohammed was excited to learn at dinner that his dad would take him to church with us this evening. He enjoyed the music very much, and went with the children's teacher during the service. We have been thanking God for the good report from the doctors after Mohammed's catheterization, and look forward to all the ways God will bless him and his father while they're here with us. Let's pray for miraculous intervention in this complicated case.

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Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Wolfson Accepts Mohammed For Catheterization
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Mohammed got a birthday surprise this morning when Wolfson Hospital called saying that he was to come down for a catheterization tomorrow. After Schneider Children's Hospital refused Mohammed's case due to its complications and diagnosis of possible worsening with surgery, Mohammed was received for an echocardiogram at Wolfson last week. As the doctors discussed the results for how best to treat Mohammed, his father waited for word about what was his last hope for his son's life. We noted how discouraged and quiet A

bu ("father of") Mohammed has been the last couple of days while he waited. Today's news brought a fresh smile to his face.

Mohammed was quiet on the journey to the hospital, but entered with a congenial attitude. He was very interested in watching his friend Hamza have his blood drawn, even peeking through the door hinge when the nurses sent him out while they cared for Hamza. Even though Hamza was very brave and didn't even whimper, when it was Mohammed's turn, the tears came immediately. We had to convince him about every part of the examination that it wouldn't bring pain, until, of course, it was time for the bloodwork to be done. I was concerned that Mohammed would kick and scream, as there have been a number of children who reacted that way. But although Mohammed did cry and yell a little at his father about stopping this test, after the initial needle was stuck in, Mohammed quit crying for a while, and told his father he is not a baby, he is big. However when it was evident that it would require a half-dozen tube-fulls to complete the work-up, Mohammed shed a few more tears until it was done. He seemed to be noting to his father that Hamza had only one tube drawn, and he was subjected to so many more that he couldn't help but cry.

Once the blood test was done, Mohammed needed a chest x-ray. Afterwards he was able to relax and simply find something to do, so he became curious and wanted to roam the halls. Instead, Victor directed him to the playroom where he enjoyed both games and crafts for several hours.

He and Hamza were assigned beds in the room with Akram, which made nice companionship and assistance for the new arrivals.

Let us intercede for the life of Mohammed as he undergoes the catheterization tomorrow which will determine operability for this sweet and lively boy. Perhaps God will reveal a way for surgery to be done which cannot be seen without this procedure; perhaps God will choose to heal Mohammed another way. I'm infinitely grateful to know God loves Mohammed so much, and He knows the plans He has for Mohammed's life. Pray for his gentle father, who must at this hour be confronting many conflicting thoughts of anxiety and hope, and perhaps fear as well. May he know the comforting presence of the Lord as he waits through the night and until he hears from the doctors tomorrow.

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Monday, May 4, 2009
Mohammed Celebrates 9th Birthday
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Mohammed celebrated his ninth birthday today with us in Jerusalem. After a pleasant dinner with all the Shevet Achim staff and Hamza, we decided to walk down the street to the local gelato ice cream shop. As we approached, he shouted in English, “Ice cream!” Once inside his face was nearly pressed against the glass trying to see all the flavors; he decided on a chocolate cone.

By the time everyone was collected to sing Happy Birthday to him, he had nearly consumed his entire ice cream. Mohammed climbed a stool as tall as he was, and all the Shevet staff and our Iraqi guests sang Happy Birthday to him. (Click the arrow below to watch a short video.)

While we were eating we heard some music playing across the street and noticed several people dancing, so we all decided to go over to see what the commotion was about. It turned out to be a number of Orthodox Jewish men dancing to some Hebrew music, a sight the Iraqis had certainly not seen before. After a few minutes of watching and some encouragement, Mohammed, defying any appearances of a heart difficulty, ran in and began to dance with them. In a few moments' time he took the hands of one of the Jewish men and they began dancing together. (Below is another video clip.)

It is not every day you hear about Israeli Orthodox Jews and Iraqi Muslims dancing together in the streets. But this child, when spinning in circles with this man was not weighed down with any of the thoughts that perhaps enter our minds. Instead, Mohammed took flight in the arms of a supposed enemy and thought to do nothing but smile and laugh.

After all the excitement Mohammed’s Dad had to carry his winded son on his shoulders, up the hill to the Shevet center. “Happy birthday, Mohammed!” one of us called out. “Thank you very much,” he replied in perfect English, without missing a beat.

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