Breaking News

Unfortunately, my one month journey was cut short and officially ended at one week. Since my last post, a lot has transpired. I visited with a plastic surgeon in Piura who informed me that I did in fact tear my flexor tendon. He also presented me with a very challenging situation: given that my flexor tendon was severed, it would need to be surgically re-attached [a tendon is similar to a rubber band in that it will "snap" apart, so the longer you wait to have the repair done, the further the two segments separate - in this case, the further my tendon would retract into my wrist]. This was a very emotional and complicated diagnosis because it forced me to decide whether or not I/my family was comfortable or not with my having surgery in Piura, or if I would need to return to the states...

As you can probably deduce, I am writing to you from my Aunt Wendy's dining room table in Chicago. I flew back here on Saturday (and my mom met me) and I met with an orthopedic surgeon here this morning. I will be having surgery tomorrow afternoon at 2:00. The extensiveness of the damage/surgery will be determined once the surgeon makes the incision. Regardless, I will be in a cast for 6-8 weeks with PT 3X week for at least two months. This flook, unfortunate accident has forced me to postpone all of my summer/school plans... from here on out, I am going to have to play everything by ear.

I am doing my best to find the positive(s) in the situation. I am hopeful that I may be able to return to Peru for another go-around Summer 2012 if time, health, and opportunities are all in alignment. Right now, I am going to dedicate some time to my quest for finding an electric wheel chair for my friend Quiche.

Thank you all for taking the time to read my blog. It means a lot to me to know that so many people were thinking about me during my journey. Lots of love, Hailey

My final day in Peru (home visit for a woman with hypertension).

Picture: Day 3

The reflexologist "having fun" with my finger (my face says otherwise).