Sunday, March 4, 2007

March 4, 2007







"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4: 12-13

Today was a relatively quiet one for Kyle, with the exception of two procedures he had done. First, he had another EKG to confirm that the ductus has closed up the rest of the way, and I am very happy to report that it has! In addition, the nurses attempted to put a PIC line in Kyle. He had been receiving fluids and meds through an umbilical catheter, however, during a routine XRAY a couple days ago it was discovered that the placement of it had shifted so they had to take it out. They moved to an IV, but Kyle's veins are so delicate the PIC line is a much better long term solution. Anyways, I say they attempted to put a PIC line in because they tried two veins and neither would work. Although Kyle was pretty "drugged up" during the procedure, it still takes a lot out of him, so after two tries they decided to let him rest and they'll try again tomorrow.

We had a bit of a false alarm last night. Kyle's nurse told us they were going to do a spinal tap on Kyle last night to determine if the infection the doctors suspect he has is bacterial meningitis/ infection of the lining of the brain. Hearing this we were obviously quite worried. Many prayers and about 4 hours later it was discovered that our nurse had misunderstood, and it was actually another baby in the NICU that was receiving the spinal tap. We still do not have the results of the blood culture that will let us know if he has an infection, however, we expect to have the results sometime on Tuesday. Please pray that Kyle does not have an infection!!!

I know sometimes I seem frustrated and yesterday mentioned that it seems we take one step forward and two steps back, however, today as I looked back on the week it was actually a pretty good one. We had two major accomplishments. First, the PDA closed. What a relief to know that he will not need heart surgery! And second, he does not have any brain bleeding. This is a huge blessing, not just for his immediate prognosis, but it greatly reduces the risk of long term disabilities. Also, not that it was a huge medical milestone, but certainly a "mother milestone"... I was able to hold Kyle for the first (and only) time during Kangaroo Care on Thursday. God is good!

We praise God for the doctors, nurses, administrators, workers that God has brought into our path. Each using their gifts and abilities God has given them to help us and Kyle on his road to recovery. Romans 12:6-8 "We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully."

Once again, thank you all for your thoughts and prayers!!!

Much Love,

Jennifer, Joe, Madison and Kyle

1 comments:

Anonymous said...

Jennifer, I imagine the days start to get long when no one is in town visiting from home. I hope that you have transportation or a means of getting around to spell yourself from your hospital vigil. I also hope you are able to share your deepest fears/concerns/feelings with someone. Have you possibly sought out a church in the area of the hospital? Or, at least, met with a hospital chaplain?
I agree, based on what you have reported, Kyle has made some remarkable strides. We can be encouraged by his progess, yet, vigilant in our prayers that the improvments out number the hurdles and setbacks. In additon to what you have mentioned for prayer requests, I will pray that you soon get another opportunity to hold him against your chest. Laura