This morning, Aiden took a big step forward as he was taken off of the ECMO unit. His chest was also sewn back up which, for wimps like me, was visually nice to see. Therefore, his heart and lungs were functioning with the continued assistance of a ventilator and pacer.
Later that morning, the surgeon suggested that we move forward with extubating him (taking him off the ventilator). Although, after we returned from lunch, they weren't happy with some of his vitals, so they decided to keep him intubated and ordered a cardiac catherization (to look at the valves from the inside to see if there are any post-surgery issues).
They determined heart function to be normal with good coronary arteries (big plus). Although, they did find some moderate atrial regurgitation (i.e. the valve going to his aorta doesn't always work properly). Some people live with this condition (in a mild state) and some take medication their entire lives. The plan though is to slow down and let Aiden take baby steps forward to heal. He's had a lot of trauma in the past 3 days and, because this atrial valve was part of the surgical procedure, it could be attributing to this particular problem. He's been poked and prodded enough so we're happy that he's going to take it easy for a couple days.
We enjoyed touching his arms, his legs, grazing his silky white hair, giving him kisses, singing to him and giving him encouragement that his mom, dad and a big following of others are all behind him rooting him on. Again, thank you all. It's all downhill from here...one baby step at a time.
ps: oh and if anyone wants any grave details on cardiology, I would be so happy to share what I've learned in my 2 day crash course. :)
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God Bless you all! We are so happy to hear the good news. We've been checking the computer all day. You 2 must be exhausted! Sounds like you've got a lot of family and friends praying for you all. Keep hanging in there. We can't imagine what you have been going through. You're all so strong, even little Aiden. We'll keep praying and thinking of you all. Love, Aunt Diane & Uncle Jerry
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear the good news. Baby steps are good...he will have plenty of time later in life to make his giant leaps!!
ReplyDeleteThinking of you all...
Diana
Jeff,
ReplyDeleteI finally had a chance to sit down and read your last few posts tonight. Althought it was hard pulling myself out of Aiden's bedside tonight... it feels good to be home. I have to say that I am married to the most wonderful man in the world. You are doing such an excellent job keeping everyone updated but more importantly, you are doing wonders for me and Aiden. You are my pillar. I have been leaning pretty hard these last few days and you have never let me fall.
You are not only a strength for me but for our precious baby boy... I watch you interact with him in that crazy ICU environment and it reminds me of why I married you. Your calming voice in that confusing world soothes our little one... your gentle words, your soothing songs and your special little kisses are helpind Aiden to realize what it's like to be a normal baby. I watch you and have NO doubt that you will be the type of father every child deserves to have.
I'm so proud of how you are handling the stress of this situation when it is so far oustide of your comfort zone... and yes - your ever gaining knowledge of cardiology is quite impressive :)
Thank you for being the man that I love and for being the daddy that Aiden is going to love. Aiden and I are truly blessed.
I love you.
Kimberly
You don't really know me but I have had some inside information from a very good source. I know loves you both and this beautiful baby very much. I have had some experience with a child in serious surgery so I can relate somewhat to what you are feeling. You just love your child every second, every minute. It is amazing how strong a child can be and it humbles you. Good luck and my prayers. Pic
ReplyDeleteAwesome news! We're glad to hear that the 'downhill' has begun, so to speak. We've been thinking about you all the time and are really excited for you to get a step or two closer to being able to hold that handsome baby =)
ReplyDeleteLove,
bc, jc & big c
Kim & Jeff ,
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let you know how much we are thinking of you and your sweet little Angel Aiden. He is a beautiful little Boy! We can't wait to hear that he is already home in his lovely nursery, many prayers to you all. Kiss the baby for us and take care of each other, Debby & Benny
Great news! You are all so strong -- Aiden is lucky to have such wonderful parents! I can't wait to hear more about your little guy (and our new cousin!). Take care and know that we are all praying for you! Love, Heather and Keith
ReplyDeleteJeff and Kimberly-
ReplyDeleteWe are sure you are both exhausted but are glad to hear that Aiden is making progress in a positive direction. A lot of prayers and well wishes are being sent your way. All three of you will be in our prayers and thoughts. Keep up the good work Aiden!
The Carpenter Crew
Mike, Lori, Connor and Maddie Kate
Jeff and Kimberly,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Dave McGee
Jeff and Kimberly,
ReplyDeleteLook at your beautiful baby boy! We are so happy for you! Mike and lori have been keeping us updated but I am so happy to read your blog. Aiden is such a cutie! hang in there and get as much sleep as you can. You have the next 50 years of sleep loss to look forward to.
We will keep you both in our prayers and look forward to meeting young Aiden in the near future!
Ryan and Kelly Bond