Many thanksgivings

I pled my case and was heard yesterday.  Many prayers were answered (thank you!)--I could feel my grandmother's prayers all the way from heaven.

Verdict:  I am not doomed to surgery.

While I may end up having that c-section--and I have understood that from the beginning--we are not going to jump straight into it.  I have an OB in the practice who has spoken with my cardiologist and agrees that it is not unwise to attempt labor.  After all, I do live with the "risk" of a cardiac event with no emergency cardiac personnel available.  Every day.

Over and above the tremendous news that I am no longer scheduled, this particular doctor reassured me that he is confident I can labor and push out the baby, given my three years without any heart rhythm episodes.  He's not even worried about the pushing part, especially since my babies tend to come quickly.  What a relief--I didn't have to push him at all.  I just reminded him of the realities of my obstetrical and cardiac histories.

And further--yes, even more good news--both physicians (cardiologist and OB) agree that heart monitoring is unnecessary.  This is music to my ears:  heart monitoring is annoying, restrictive and uncomfortable.  Add that to laboring with an epidural and fetal monitor--it's a lot of cords, tape and nuisance.  I am thrilled not to be required to have all those leads further tethering me to the bed.

As we were leaving yesterday, I got what might be the best news.  This doc promised to come in to cover me should any of his partners disagree with a trial of labor.  It's all lined up, and I finally feel able to relax and wait joyfully for this baby to come.  Before I was only dreading the mode of his coming, but now I can again see past the birth itself to the baby.  Hallelujah!

And if it turns out that New Baby does not tolerate labor well or that my heart gets sketchy, we'll do a c-section.  We'll roll with whatever comes our way.  But since it might be possible to avoid that surgery, why not try?  Green light ahead.