Yesterday, technically, I had issues accessing the blog, emotionally, it was the toughest day for us so far and, physically, the toughest for Aiden so far.
Around noon yesterday, a physicians assistant informed us that the procedure went as planned but there was an added complication. The surgeon determined that Aiden's BP (blood pressure - sorry, I'm learning and speaking the lingo now) was not high enough to sustain the surgery. Therefore, he was put on a device called ECMO (+ a pacer) to basically let a machine do the work that his lungs and heart would normally do. The doctor's did mention before that the first 48 hours after surgery is the worst even though this device isn't commonly used (nor rare as they put it).
Kimberly and I stayed the night at Children's as one of her friends on another unit was able to provide us with a room equipped with a bed and TV. I'm very happy that we're in the best hands possible for Aiden but hopefully the new facility in 6 months will provide better guest waiting and overnight services. I'm now at home getting refreshed and will be leaving soon to relieve Kimberly for a little while.
This morning, Aiden's vitals were stable (if not a little better) and he was weened off a drug (epinephrine) which is good. The plan is to try taking him off ECMO and to have his lungs and heart do the work. If that doesn't work, the surgeon will attempt another procedure to help get him to where we all want him to be - on the road to recovery and home in our arms.
Needless to say, this was one of, if not the, toughest thing we've ever had to see or deal with so far in our lives. I can't thank everyone enough for your great support by being here in person, adding comments to the blog, texting, voice mails, whatever... Thanks to the AGH girls for stopping by last night and bringing your positive support and sense of humor. And, thank God for looking over Aiden and blessing these wonderful, talented people who are taking care of him. He is a strong boy and with all of this positive strength around him, he will persevere.
As long as I can get to the blog later today at Children's, I'll provide an update later this afternoon or evening.
Jeff
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I'm checking the blog several times a day and praying for you guys. I'm glad Lez was able to help you out last night with a room. I wish I could be there right now to give you a big hug.
ReplyDeleteJenny
Kimberly/Jeff/Aiden,
ReplyDeleteWe are thinking about the 3 of you and this blog has been so informative. Thanks for the update. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Rachael & Craig
Hello. Jeff, thank you for the updates, as I am not sure how you have the ability to even think about send out messages. Please know we are all praying and thinking of all three of you. Kiss Kimberly and Aiden for us all. God keep His watch over you and your sweet family. Love, Kim L
ReplyDeleteI received a text from Melissa a short time ago with good news that Aiden is breathing on his own. That is terrific! Thank you for keeping us informed with this blog. I check it all the time. Technology is a wonderful thing! We are keeping the three of you close to our hearts. Hang in there and take care!
ReplyDeleteI am following the blog and all the text messages all day at work... and praying every minute!! Be strong Jeff and Kimberly... you have a very tough (beautiful!) little man there... he will be just fine!! I can't wait to see his adoreable face minus all the tape and tubes!!! Anything you need...ANYTHING... I'm right here... xo Molly.
ReplyDeleteI just want you guys to know that you are in our hearts and our prayers constantly! Aiden is a beautiful, strong little guy and I know he will pull through this! Thank you both for keeping this blog with the updates. May God bless all of you. Love, Joanna and Matt.
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