Maima's Day of Surgery

The long-awaited day finally came. After more than seven months, unable to eat or drink, having journeyed long and far from home, uncertain whether she would even survive, 13-year-old Maima Sekhar underwent surgery Wednesday, August 4, to replace her severely damaged esophagus.

Early the morning of her procedure, a parade of surgeons, pediatric specialists, anesthesiologists, and nurses came to the surgical prep room to explain in more detail to Maima and her mother the procedure, what could be expected, and what risks Maima might face. Maima quietly listened and smiled, nervous but excited that a major step toward her recovery was finally about to happen.

She left the arms of her mother with only a few tears. She was in God's hands.

In the 11 hours that followed, friends and family around the world prayed. It has been said that the hardest part of hope is waiting. Those long hours were indeed hard.

Maima Is Ready!

In the surgical waiting room of Children's Hospital, many mothers and fathers, family members, and friends waited with hope of a good outcome for their loved one. Though well-meaning supporters may claim to know that a positive result is just ahead, the truth is that no one has the ability to know the future. God's Word directs us to "fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Cor.4:18) This is where Maima's family found real encouragement during the interminable waiting brought on by this ordeal.

Outside the waiting room windows, the sky had begun to darken by the time Dr. Karrer came out to speak to Maima's mother. The surgery had taken longer than expected, but Maima remained stable throughout. Dr. Karrer explained that more of the esophagus was damaged than they had originally believed. As a result, her stomach had to be attached very close to her vocal cords. One concern of theirs was that the nerves had been damaged and she would not be able to speak well. While Dr. Karrer was explaining this, his pager went off. He read aloud the message another surgeon had just written while standing at Maima's side. Maima had spoken with a good strong voice!

Dr. Karrer was encouraged about Maima's condition, but he cautioned that there were several possible complications — infection, bleeding from the sutured areas, breathing problems, and more. In order to closely monitor her progress, she was admitted to an intensive care room.

She will remain on an epidural for a couple of days until her pain subsides. It is not known, at the time of this writing, when she will be admitted to another room. Until that time, few visitors will be allowed to see her, as risk of infection is high.

After the long day, Marie and her family and friends rejoiced with praise for God's mercy. Marie danced and sang aloud to Jesus for the many generous and skilled medical staff, the successful completion of the procedure, and for the love and care shown to her and her daughter.

As the days of Maima's recovery go by, please continue praying. Maima and her family members need the encouragement and support.