Steady as he goes

Today is good news from a parent's standpoint, and tolerable news from a patient's viewpoint. A few small changes, but nothing too dramatic. The good news is that his blood levels are healthy again on their own. Apparently they've had enough time to get themselves back in order. Also, at least two i.v. lines came out today, including one in his groin. We had a few anxious moments this afternoon when his swollen leg was looked at to rule out a clot, but in the end the swelling is a bi-product of having that line in the groin, not a clot. We thank God for the little bits of good news!

The place where Ben's tolerance is being tested is with the ng tube in the nose. It is a very heavy tube, pulling heavy bile, and is terribly uncomfortable and makes him gag since it runs down the back of his throat. But he is being as good a sport as anyone could expect. Maybe tomorrow or the next day for that one. I think they will try to get him on some clear liquids before they remove that tube.

Ben also had a sponge bath, got his hair washed, sat up in the chair for a short time, and did his acapella breathing exercises. One respiratory therapist calls it the "flutterbug" because it's designed to blow into instead of suck in like most breathing exercisers. When he blows out it, well, flutters!

The surgical team and G.I. folks have been coming around a good bit. A couple of the doctors from last week were out of town over the weekend and were concerned when they heard that Ben had ended up requiring surgery. We really appreciate the genuine concern, excellent care, and personal investment of nearly everybody here at Children's!!

While of course no one can say for sure how much longer we'll be here, it looks like at least another week. I'm sure they won't release him until they're sure that he is as good as he can be short of regaining strength and energy.

Kim and Jon both spent lots of the weekend at the hospital, with Kim taking Saturday and Sunday nights. Now it's Jon's turn again, probably until Thursday night. Gma & gpa L are sticking around a few more days - we really appreciate them being here! - and then the gparents S are coming back for next week. Grandparents are GREAT!

Ben and I are hopeful that we can get a little sleep this evening.

Thanks for all your encouragement, expressions of support, and prayers.