Roller Coaster

Update: Doctor’s were unable to obtain an arterial line, but praise there is no bleeding! They will try again in a day or two.

After a quiet day yesterday we had received word that they were hoping to start the weaning process on Monday. However, news today has proven that Jack’s progress will continue to be a roller coaster ride of change rather than the steady road to recovery. Prayers are still desperately needed.

After speaking with the doctors this afternoon it does not appear that Jackson is anywhere near ready to start the weaning process. We do not know for sure when this process will begin now, but the outlook has us looking at closer to the two week mark (tonight at midnight will be the 9 day mark), so hopefully the middle or end of next week. His progress has been slower than average for ECMO babies that have come in for Meconium Aspiration Syndrome. However, I know there are a lot of faithful family and friends sending prayers even now. We serve a great God who always has our best in mind. We praise him for each day that we get with Jackson.

Praise: the bleeding around the cannuleas in his neck has dwindled to a very slow seep; so the clotting has improved.
Prayer: As we continue on ECMO parts of the system, such as the Oxygenator (the artificial lung), wear out and eventually need to be replaced. Any change to the system introduces new risk.

Praise: X-ray today indicates a slight increase in air volume in the lungs.
Prayer: X-ray today shows a bell shape to the rib cage which could be an indicator of under-developed lungs, but they are not sure at this time. Please pray for Jack’s lungs.

Plans today are to increase the respirator rate to help further open his lungs and attempt to get an arterial line. Sedation has been increased to keep Jackson calmer as he has begun developing a tolerance to the drug.
Oxygen saturation levels have been a bit lower today, but not bad.

Thank you for your continued prayers!
Joe