It's been a long time since we've updated you on Thao's situation. She has had 2 surgeries in recent months. The first took place in November was to remove the second skin expander. This one was placed in the back of her head. The new skin that was grown was used to replace scarred parts of her scalp. This was her most painful surgery today. For the first time Thao cried from the pain and discomfort. The back of the neck is a very sensitive part of the body, with lots of nerves running up and down. After a few days the pain and swelling went down and Thao was nearly back to her old self again.
Just before this surgery HSCV VP Annetta was able to visit Thao for a few days. Thao was very excited to spend time with Annetta. She introduced her to her new host family, her new school and her new home. They were able to spend a few days together. The first host family (Hanh and David) took them for a lovely drive to the California cost. They spent the day exploring the sites and sound of coastline. It was a day all will remember. 
At this time Thao's expander was nearly full, but it did not get in Thao's way. She was eager to play and laugh with Annetta as she always has done.
Last week Thao had her second surgery on her right hand. The surgery was more complicated than the surgeons thought it would be. They had to stop the surgery after 4 hours instead of working the 8 hours they had originally planned. So only 50% of the surgery was completed, but most importantly it was done successfully. 
They used the skin from her abdomen to attach to her hand. In order to do this they had to attach her to her abdomen. Over the next 2 weeks the skin will from grow new tissue on her hand. Issuance, the surgeons implanted abdomen skin onto her hand. After 2 weeks, they will detach the abdomen from her hand. Thao will stay in the hospital for the next few days.
They used the skin from her abdomen to attach to her hand. In order to do this they had to attach her to her abdomen. Over the next 2 weeks the skin will from grow new tissue on her hand. Issuance, the surgeons implanted abdomen skin onto her hand. After 2 weeks, they will detach the abdomen from her hand. Thao will stay in the hospital for the next few days.
It's a hard time for Thao. She has been away from home for over a year now. She is growing and learning more than she ever has in her life. On top of that she is undergone surgery every few months. She is a brave young lady and we all should admire her courage and positive outlook.
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