Thursday, January 14, 2010

Another rough day



Nicholas was working extra hard to breathe today, his sats were all over the board from 75 (bad) to 96 (good). He couldn't keep them consistent, therefore, to give him a bit of a break, they decided to reintubate him. They also drew a blood culture and other labs to ensure he doesn't have an infection. He wasn't on oxygen and his chest x-rays looked good until day 9 of life, hence, looking for other sources of his oxygen levels fluctuating. Days like this make us both feel like we have run a marathon. We're emotionally exhausted. No wonder why we crash at the end of the day. Nicholas fought the intubation tube and even had a strong cry which are all good signs that he doesn't have an infection. At best, he'll be intubated for 24-48 hours just to give him a break and allow him to focus on growing. The picture was taken right after they were finished. Without the CPAP cap, you can appreciate all his black hair. He also has a peripheral iv in his left hand, hence, the big white boards to protect it. Our little guy is a fighter and even though we knew this could happen, it's never easy when it does. It seems like we take one step forward and four steps back. We thank God for our little guy and for the strength we have in each other.

8 comments:

  1. i fell so bad for him and we r all praying for him even my friends and teachers are

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  2. love you all..... hang in there.... he is a little fighter!

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  3. Yes, it's very hard to deal with for all of you even though we can't begin to appreciate all the angst and emotional roller coaster you have to endure. Our thoughts and love are with all three of you. With all the responsibilities and demands on your time Thanks for thinking of everyone by doing these blogs. Definitely has that Italian look with the dark locks.
    Nicholas, keep fighting so one day you can join your Moms and us at a Hawkeye football game.
    We love you.
    Judy/Dave

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  4. Nicholas, We just saw your picture and you are beautiful, just hang in there for Grandma and PaPa to give you a big hug and a big KISS....Grandma and PaPa....

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  5. I am not worried about Nicholas going back on the vent, It was amazing that he stayed off as long as he did. Hang in there.

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  6. Oh sweet, little Nicholas keep up the great fight buddy! Your mommies are doing such a great job helping you fight a good fight!

    Denise & Denise, although it may seem like a step backwards going on the vent, it will help give the little guy a break. It's always two steps forward one step back in the NICU. I know how emotionally draining this ride is, so I empathize with you. You are both doing a great job, so keep it up! BTW ... Nicholas is such a handsome little guy--love that dark hair! :)

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  7. Thanks for taking the time to keep this blog. I look forward to reading every new post and seeing the pictures. Today's picture was maybe the best one yet--we finally get a good look at the little babe's sweet face!

    I'm sorry you're all going through this. I'm keeping you in my thoughts. xox

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  8. Hey Denise, just wanted to let you know that we are all praying for you, Denise, and Nicholas. Hang in there as GOD will take care of you all! Nicholas is just adorable, and we can't wait to meet the little guy!!
    Stacy & Brylee

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