Update on Chris 01/02/07

Update on Chris 1-2-07

Chris’ condition did not change much yesterday. His blood oxygen level continued to fluctuate between 86-90%, even on 100% oxygen from the ventilator tube. The doctor came in and told us that Chris has not progressed like he had hoped, but they would do some tweaking and add a new antibiotic. He showed us chest x-rays collected over the last four days. The fluid that was drained on Sunday appears to be back again. It looks like it could possibly be trying to spread to the right lung as well, but this has not been confirmed. There are also some spots that they cannot confirm what they are, could be infection, but they can’t rule out malignancies. They can’t do much to test that right now, cause they are just trying to focus on keeping his breathing as stable as possible. The doctor feels that they may be battling something more than just the pneumonia, but time can only tell as they await test results on blood and the fluid. I will be at the hospital today and should have an update later today.

New development… Chris has been somewhat responsive, even under full sedation. He can shake his head yes and no, to answer questions and can move his arms and legs a little, although under restraints for protection. He is very stimulated when people are in the room and he tries to communicate. This takes too much energy and makes his oxygen level go down. Because of this, we need to limit visitors to his room. If you come by, you can sit quietly in his room. If the nurse feels that you can say a quick quiet hello, that is fine. We have put a notebook on the table in his room, if you would like to sign it, journal it, etc. to let us know you were there. You can still visit Mandy though.

Thank you to every one who has offered to help with meals and rides. I think we are covered for this week. I am so grateful for all of you. It is good to not feel alone. It is such a testimony to so many people, to see how God’s people come together. I only hope we can do the same for you someday.

Love,

Mandy