Sharing is caring.

Surgery is schedule to begin between 12-12:30 and is expected to last approximately 3-5 hours. We have been told that an OR nurses will come out to provide updates to us at least every 2 hours. Unfortunately none of us get cell service in hospital (we have to walk all the way out of the hospital) and there have been so many emails coming in wanting phone calls or emails following the surgery and there is simply not a way for me to accommodate, however, Aloha Suzanne (my wonderful Aunt Sue) will be updating this blog later today to let everyone know how Mom is doing.

Gordon, Mom, E, Garrett and I will be leaving for the hospital in a couple hours... my Grandmother will also meet us there. Nick, Chris, Gosia, and Sue will be driving up later this afternoon from Houston and we have worked out a system to keep my oldest brother Daniel, who is in Brazil and really hating being so far right now, informed throughout the day (he is definitely here with us in spirit!) My youngest brother David will be working in Houston through the weekend, but will come up later next week (which will provide some much appreciated help to E and me after everyone else has gone home).

Instead of me telling you guys how clear Mom's head is or how strong her heart is, please read the below note from her:

Today is the day for surgery and thanks to all of you and a very loving God, I feel strong and hopeful (my hair and nails look great too!) :)

I am so very blessed with the greatest kids, family and friends that anyone could ever ask for. Everyone has been so supportive and encouraging - I can never thank you enough. Especially Gordon, Monica and Ros who really did go above and beyond (my twisted arm is healing nicely - thank you). As much as I hate to admit it.. the Blog was really a great idea!

First of all it was a great idea, because it provided an excellent tool to keep everyone informed, without completely overloading Monica and Gordon. But even more so, it was great because it forced me to share. I have always loved to share good things... but it is really difficult to share needs or hurt. Since I was "forced" to share and to reach out to my wonderful "network" - I have gained so much strength from all of you.

Not long ago, I finally finished writing my "Mission Statement". It was something I started quite some time ago as a result of reading the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People". This may seem strange to some of you, but one of my greatest desires is to live simply. That is not an easy thing to do in this world where everything seems so urgent and so important. When a serious illness comes into your life, it suddenly makes it much easier to see your priorities. This is definitely a good time for me to sit back emotionally and evaluate. For that I am thankful. One of my friends said last night that this experience should be worth at least one song! :)

The first point on my mission statement was to glorify God, to "let His light shine". I remember hearing as a young child, that the light from one candle can be seen from a long distance when it is dark outside. It's a little dark right now for me, but I can see so much of His light shining through each of you, in your wonderful words of encouragement. By sharing my "darkness" - I've been blessed with your light! You guys really are the best!

I'm sure that there will be lots of information posted later about the surgery (My sister is in on it too now!)

Thank you for sharing the journey with me.

All my love and gratitude...

Sia

PS. Can't wait to eat some haggis, neeps and tatties!