October 10, 2016 Part II
Louis' bronchoscopy went well. The whole process only takes a few minutes. They put a little camera down his breathing tube and are able to see if there are any blockages in his lungs, like mucus build up. Then they use a saline solution to flush out any fluid and are able to use that to test for any bacteria cultures. Unfortunately, the testing takes anywhere from 1-3 days to see if it grows any bacteria. Then they can begin treating it with specific antibiotics. Right now, he is being treated with an antibiotic but if the cultures reveal a bacteria then the clock starts over with new medicines.
His progress today: they have weened him off of the nitric oxide which was a inhalant that allowed his pulmonary vessels to open up. He is also off of any blood pressure medications and maintaining good pressures. Lastly, they weened him off of the paralytic which rendered him immobile. The paralytic was helping his muscles relax, specifically his diaphragm. My darling boy gets a bit riled up with all of these tubes and cords so they needed him to calm his muscles. He is still heavily sedated to keep him comfortable. So he is in a deep sleep. He moves a bit when you touch him which is sweet but also heartbreaking. He still has the ventilator (breathing tube), he also has pain medications and medications to help regulate his fluid balance, as well as an IV with TPN (Total Peripheral Nutrition) which is how he is receiving nutrition (through his blood stream instead of his digestive system).
I am less pissed than I was earlier today. But I am still feeling defeated. It is hard not to feel like things keep becoming more complicated the longer we wait for surgery. He is really in the best care. Everyone at Helen DeVos Children's is so kind and smart and they really seem to care about Louis and his parents well-being. They answer all of our questions...several times over, and they take care of us too.
Although today feels like a set back, I know everything is happening in Louis' best interest.
I just want my baby.
Comments (9)
I honestly have a hard time reading through these because my eyes get so blurry :( I am sending you strength, sleep, and so much support!
Love you tons! Being pissed off, feeling sad and defeated are completely understandable given the situation. You've taken some beautiful photos! Give Dan a hug for me and kiss Louis on the noggin
Praying for a speedy recovery. Always remember God is next to you waiting. When feeling pissed, just breathe and ask god to give you strength and place his hand on Louis to heal him and make him whole again. It works and God is waiting to hear from you. God Bless you and your Family. Keeping you in my Thoughts and Prayers.
Sending all good vibes, well wishes and tons of love! God Bless sweet baby Louis and guide his parent through this difficult time. Love you all!!! Joy
Louis is amazing! Just by being, he has created a powerful community of people who love him (and his mom and dad!) and hold him in prayer and positive light. That's powerful stuff! I can't wait to see who he becomes.
I put Louis, Dan and you on our prayer list at church. As I read this I am amazed at your strength and understanding of Louis' situation. Take care of yourselves, get rest so you can take care of your sweet little boy when he comes home. Love and hugs.
Thanks for the update. Hugs and prayers.
What you are going though sounds so incredibly hard. And all those "mamma bear" new hormones surging through you. Sweet Louis, get better soon and back to your mamma's arms.
Thoughts and prayers for Louis and his family.