Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Redefying Frustration

We write this blog entry with a sense of exasperation.

Unfortunately, Gwendolyn had a relapse again over night of her breathing difficulties. This time, the nurse on duty said that Gwen didn’t start bringing back up her oxygen levels again until she was stimulated by touch. In fact, while visiting the hospital this afternoon, Gwen had several more instances in front of Mom.

Currently, the hospital isn’t sure where we go from here and neither do we. We’ve tried to remain optimistic that we’d be home soon without getting our hopes up too high. Unfortunately, we are now in a no-man’s land of sorts. The hospital is reevaluating the situation to try and determine what exactly is causing these breathing issues and why they popped up again only after her feeding tube was inserted. The only logical conclusion outside of the viruses or infections that have already been ruled out is that her throat is still inflamed from the breathing tube she had inserted during that feeding tube procedure. However, Ear, Nose & Throat was not comfortable doing another scope on her because they have already done two. But they may do a bronchial test on her depending on what happens over the next few days.

Unfortunately, until we know what has caused Gwen to regress, we won’t know what the fix is or how long the recovery for that is. Ergo, getting our Gwenner home by Christmas is now far from a given and maybe be a 50-50 proposition at best.

On the bright side, Gwen spent the majority of the day smiling wide at the parade of medical staffers as they shuffled in and out of her room. At least she’s remained her sweet self throughout the process.

Well we honestly don’t want to sit here and start a pity party so for now we’ll sign off.

Obviously as we get updates, we’ll be sure to share them.

Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers... we need them now more than ever!!!

4 comments:

  1. Oh no! You guys have been through so much already. The health system/medical care can be soooo frustrating. I am so sorry. Take comfort in knowing that she is well taken care of and we are praying long and hard that these breathing issues resolve very, very soon. She is quite a trooper to be smiling through all of this. What a precious, amazing little girl. Hugs to you all. Keep your chin up. You are doing what's best for that unbelievable little girl. Hugs to Braelyn too of course!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nana and Poppa know how strong Gwen and the family are. While we were looking forward to visiting both girls at home for Christmas, our dearest wish is that Gwen will be on a course of treatment that will resolve all her breathing issues. Our family is praying for our little trooper and her Mom, Dad and sister. We are happy that we will be spending Christmas with you all either way but can't help but hope for a little Christmas miracle that we'll be visitng the WHOLE family together at Kenwood Dr.
    Love & God Bless, Nana & Poppa

    ReplyDelete
  3. What can we all do right now but pray, and BELIEVE in the power of so many prayers? I have never seen strength like that displayed by your amazing Gwendolyn and by her strong and faithful parents. We will focus our prayers on Gwen's breathing issues and for a specific and immediate treatment for this. I can't promise that I won't sneak in a wish and prayer or two for her to be home for Christmas, too. Keep the faith, Heather and Chuck, I can't imagine how tough it is, but please keep believing and know that she will be home when she is ready. I love knowing that Gwen is able to keep a smile on her sweet face while she continues to fight. She sure is a tough little beastie! I know where she gets it!
    Love to you all -
    Steph and Rance

    ReplyDelete
  4. Hey guys-- We will just continue to say prayers and hope the Gwen will be home for her 1st XMAS with her sis;) The both of you are just pillars of strength and are amazing parents!! Love Jen and Bob

    ReplyDelete