We've known since DD was a few months old that she'll eventually need surgery to correct an alternating squint. It's been like a big cloud hanging over us, but the operation has been booked and the date is looming. We are going for the pre-op assessment tomorrow and have just told DD that she needs to go for a check up where they'll weigh her, measure her, check her blood pressure and listen to her heartbeat - she's Doc McStuffins mad so this idea is quite appealing to her!
The problem is that I just have absolutely no idea what to tell DD about why she needs an operation. We are very lucky that nobody has commented to her about her eyes being 'wonky' so she is completely oblivious to the cosmetic issues. However, the flip side is that I can't think of a way to explain it to her in very simple terms without drawing her attention to something that she is completely unaware of (and would like it to stay that way - we all have things we don't like about her bodies, so I don't want to notice what she is oblivious to, especially if surgery corrects it anyway). I hope that makes sense, it's the rambling a of a very tired and very stressed mummy! I can't say the operation will end the need to wear glasses, because chances are that she will still need them. Has anyone got any suggestions, or could you tell me what you've told your children who have had this done?
She had surgery for something else a month ago, so she has already experienced a general anaesthetic. Fortunately it was a really positive experience. She coped brilliantly and bounced back quite quickly, but was really traumatised about having the cannula put into her hand. Is there anything I can ask the hospital staff to do to make this easier for her?
Any positive stories would be really appreciated, as I said this has been looming for such a long time and it will be such a relief to get it over with. If only I could do it for her, I would 