Smiling Hurts Here Too: Ty Hafan

As Eira's recovery process continues and she continues to fight battles everyday, we also have to feel incredibly lucky to be where we are. Coming to Ty Hafan from hospital, looking back was the best decision we made, not only for Eira, but for us as a family. When we came to Ty Hafan, we didn't know what to expect, and all we were thinking was that it would just be somewhere different to say goodbye to our little girl. Almost 4 weeks later and we can say that we have definitely been able to smile amongst all the pain. This is purely down to the staff, everyone from the office staff, to the housekeepers have treated us all (Angharad included) with the utmost welcome and treated us like family. Nothing is too much trouble for anyone, and even the little things like making a cuppa isn't something they frown upon. A charity that relies on just 13% government funding, and the rest on donations, Ty Hafan is truly a remarkable place that we hope to continue to be a part of the family for many years to come (although hopefully not as residents).

Eira has continued to be unsettled over the last few days, with a combination of dystonia, constipation and acid reflux possible causes, which are being treated accordingly. On Tuesday, as we would have done before, and making use of he amazing hydrotherapy pool here at Ty Hafan, Eira got to go swimming! It wasn't quite the same as a lesson with Amie and the SwimKidz but she was definitely relaxed and comfortable in the water, nothing new there!

Eira has continued to enjoying having tasters of food and the Speech and Language therapist came for a second visit to assess the progress, its safe to say she was pleased, there is a video-fluoroscopy booked for Friday (16th May) which will give us a better idea on her capabilities including swallowing fluids.

As the sunshine continued, we made the most of the pristine grounds at Ty Hafan, which are all maintained by volunteer gardeners by going for a family walk. The range of wildlife in the area, including sheep grazing, and the panoramic view of the sea really does make for a pleasant stroll. With Eira & Angharad both in their respective buggies, we set off.

A meeting was held on Tuesday (13th) that included a range of medical personnel from various departments who are directly and indirectly involved in Eira's care and recovery. The outcome of this meeting is that Eira needs a Neuro-Rehab Assessment, the logistics of which are still unsure. There a few outcomes from this assessment which could either mean us going home or staying in Ty Hafan and having regular appointments in Cardiff Hospital. The second outcome is that Eira requires Intensive Neuro-Rehab and that would involve a stay in Noah's Ark Children's hospital for a period of up to 12 weeks.

As parents, we want the best possible recovery for Eira and the best possible care given to her, and although we would rather not be heading back into hospital for a period, if it means that Eira's recovery is improved then we will follow her needs.

There are lots of things planned for the next few days and we are hoping to be heading out for a few hours in the local area too.

P.s We really do appreciate all the messages of support and the donations made by each and every person. Thank You