Thursday, December 6, 2012

Today was slightly less eventful, a somewhat welcome change from earlier in the week.  Quinn continues to hold strong as his liver metrics are still working towards normal values.  Most importantly, his ammonia levels have remained normal (normal is 10-50, his afternoon labs showed him at 45, far down from the 500 level he was admitted at). 

Unfortunately Quinn did not process the breast milk and had to have this aspirated from his stomach.  He's been started on intravenous feed instead and we'll likely try the milk again tomorrow.  There was not great concern as the digestive system can take a while to restore after or during critical illness.  Quinn did finally have a BM.  I've only seen my 4 year old that excited about poop before; this was apparently a good milestone and contents and weight were examined and recorded.  It's really too bad Everett wasn't present.

Quinn is processing the sedative better and is occasionally stirring, a very normal and welcome advancement.  He has slightly opened his eyes when he hears our voices, and best of all, squeezed our fingers when we hold his hand.  He even furrows his brown deeply when someone is clearing his breathing tube, or doing something else that he's not thrilled with.  We're quite used to that face and so glad to see it return.

Today was definitely a day of grateful thoughts as well.  We are surrounded by love in so many forms.  Visits from friends and family, amazing snacks and food, and sweet well wishes.  Quinn's room has grown to be such a cozy and warm space.  We're grateful to be in Portland where we have access to tremendous medical facilities and staff.  The PICU doctors, myriad of specialists, and nurses have all been fabulous - open, honest, patient, knowledgeable, and empowering.  This morning during rounds I joined 17 people in discussing Quinn's care plan for the day.  Incredible that they encourage parents to be involved at this level.  We're grateful to be able to take this time to be with Quinn as he goes through treatments and to be able to be his advocate and point of consistency.  Thanks to you all. 




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