Sunday August 20th

Today was a good day for Stephanie.  She is still stable.  Her intracranial pressure (ICP: the metric the doctors are watching very closely as they monitor her brain) has been steady most of the week. And her other systems continue to be strong.  

She has had a bit of a fever off an on the past couple of days, so they decided to hold off just a bit longer on weaning her from her sedation medication.  As I understand it, fevers are supposedly a common side affect with TBIs as the brain works to regain control of regulating body temperature.  But, the doctors want to be sure so they have been testing for infections and monitoring her white blood cell counts.  So far, tests are coming back normal (YAY!).  Another bit of important progress is that the doctors were able to remove one (of 2) shunts that were placed in her brain to help drain excess fluids and relieve pressure.  

 The doctors decided to give Steph's brain just a bit more time to rest before starting the waking process.  Tomorrow morning though, she will get another CT scan.  If that looks good, then the hope to start weaning her off the sedation medication.  This can take 24-48 hours or more, all depending on her body's response.  It's a slow process because the doctors want to closely monitor not only how her brain and other systems respond, but also how she reacts to the increasing stimulation and awareness of her surroundings and situation.  So, please continue to think of her and send her strength.

We've been feeling all your support and are so incredibly thankful for each prayer, healing vibe, positive thought you've sent.  We are also in awe of everyone's generosity and kindness that has made it's way directly & indirectly to Stephanie and Dennis in so many ways.  We also need to mention how simply amazing the ICU medical professionals at Scripps are.  We are grateful to their expertise, care, and compassion. Thank you all!

#GoStephGo