Willow's specific procedure was very intensive, and they don't perform it often. She looked on the outside like she was better than she actually was, which the surgeon said is typical for someone who has had the heart stopped for that long. (I thought she looked bad myself, but okay!)
So the nurses believed she was ready to tolerate liquids when she was not. The assumption is that she aspirated into the lungs. The actual heart is looking good, but now her lungs need to heal. (Although an x-ray last night showed that her diaphragm was knicked a bit in surgery. That doesn't hurt her as a toddler much but does make extubating more difficult, adding to our problem.) It sounds like they will be increasing sedation to almost a therapeutic level so that she can relax and heal. Plans are still to have sedation and the breathing tube for a few days.
So this little ICU room will be our home for a few more days.
We rely on Willow's Creator during this hard time. We will praise Him in the storm. So grateful there's nothing problematic going on with her actual heart.
Praying for sweet Willow and all involved in her healing! Thanks for the updates!
ReplyDeleteMary Ellen
Oh sweet girl. Prayers for her lungs. Prayers for peace and calm for you.
ReplyDeleteAmber, thank you so much for updating these status reports! I KNOW I am not the only one who checks multiple times a day to see how each of you are doing. It is so helpful to know specifically how to pray "without ceasing" for Willow and her sweet mom and dad! Please also let us know if there is anything we can do to help at your house (we're close.) Also, the missionary couple who has been staying with us are moving out tomorrow. If anyone in your family needs to stay in our guest house at anytime now, or when Willow comes home from the hospital, we would be blessed to host them. Love you guys! I hope while the medication is helping Willow rest, you are able to get some rest as well.
ReplyDeletePraying and claiming healing over Willow's lungs and heart. Praying for peace and comfort sent from heavenly realm. Praying for rest and restored energy for Amber and Kyle. Rest, rest in His faithfulness and His Might. He has you all in the palm of His hands. He has sent angels concerning you too. Rest.
ReplyDelete"Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31
ReplyDeleteAmber, I have been following closely. We are saying prayers for Willow and for both of you. I can't imagine how exhausting this is for each of you. Your family of three is so beautiful. As I look at your pictures and read your blog, it is clear that each of you fit together to make one amazing family unit. You all are truly blessed and uniquely selected to come through this together. Love and prayers being sent up for you ~ Mary Huber
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