Preparing for a Halo

Tonight I've been digging around online to see just what we're in for. Fortunately (or would it be unfortunately?) I have a couple of friends who've walked before me so I can pick their brains a bit.

Axel is going to need shirts that fit on/around the halo. I found a couple of websites that sell clothes that have been altered for a halo, but they are UNGODLY expensive. (really...$75 for a t-shirt that has been cut and velcro added to it? I'm think'in....no.)

Is there anyone who lives near me (Twin Cities) who knows how to sew and do all that stuff? I used to, but don't even own a machine anymore.

I'm looking for a good easel. I want it magnetic so Axel can use magnetic letters on it while we work on some school stuff. I wonder if a table top easel or a regular stand-up one would be better? Any thoughts from the parents who've been there/done that?

For those who've kids have already gone through this, is there anything you didn't have at the hospital that you wish you had? (for your child, that is.) Angela has been through so many surgeries, but never something that has laid her up this long. Although she spent the most of a winter in the hospital a few years ago, she was running around the hospital during that time!