Ups and downs
Derek's reservoir placement went well this morning. They removed 17 mL of fluid off his brain. They said that was a lot. After coming off the anesthesia he was his old self; alert, smiling evenly, oriented, and chatty. He sat and chatted with his sister for a long time. As it started to near 5 PM, he was changing. He could only smile with the right side of his face, he was slurring his speech and he was staring off into space. We alerted the nurse who agreed and a CT was ordered. The CT confirmed that the fluid had rebuilt up so why not give the old reservoir a test on the first day being in.
The PICU doc who was on at the time was going to be the one to drain it. Derek was very scared and upset. He held so still despite his fear, we were so proud of him. The Dr made 2 attempts and stopped. He went to call in the surgeon who placed the reservoir to drain it. The surgeon got tied up in horrible downtown traffic and arrived after Derek's sister and I had left for the night.
He drained 51 mL off Derek's brain!!! No wonder he was how he was! He will have an MRI tomorrow to check fluid collection overnight and they will make decisions from there. He is sleeping comfortably now, and for today, we could not ask for more.
Comments (12)
Derek, you are such a strong and brave young man!!!
Our continued prayers for Derek and for all of you! You have an Army behind you! Tell Derek that he is the General!!!!
Love those sweet pictures of Derek & Kate :) we love y'all!
No words. Just love.
Thank you for the update. I've been thinking about him all day. My heart aches that he has to go through this. His bravery is an inspiration! Many hugs to him and many more prayers for all of you!!
Derek-hang in there dude. You are strong, you are smart, you CAN do this!
The Lord is your light and your salvation, Derek. Stay strong and take courage, He shall strengthen your heart. He loves you and your family. And you have shown so much courage over these last three months. We'll keep praying for you and your family.
The wonders if modern medicine. Grandma loves you Derek. Eager to hear how things progressed over the night. God bless your Doctor!
Psalm 16:8 reminds us, "I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Isaiah 41:10 promises, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." We are praying fervently, Derek! God is by your side and will not leave you!!
Derek you are so brave. We know it is tough for you but it will get better. Your family and friends are all praying for you and our prayers will be answered. The picture of you and Kate is so cute. Hope you have a better day to today. Great Grandpa and I love you so much. You are very lucky to have such a nice sister, Mom and Dad who love you. We will be thinking of you.
What a beautiful picture of the children. Derek is so strong, way beyond his years. We continue in prayer for a great outcome. With much love, Judy and Lyle.
Praying everyday for your family. You are a family of warriors keep up the hard fight!