Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Glacial Movement

I said yesterday that any type of forward progress is all we want... and that's what we have. Madeleine had a teeter-totter night last night as she'd be doing well and would get weaned a bit and then would fall back. At the end of the ups and downs, she down a little bit on her oxygen support and for now, it seems like the doctors are happy just keeping her stable. Assuming she can maintain her stability-- and we're pretty convinced she can-- they'll consider weaning in the evening or possibly wait until tomorrow. They've identified a low-level infection that they're treating right now with antibiotic and that helps explain some of her struggles-- especially last night's teeter-totter.

That's pretty much it on the update front. We don't expect any major changes and are just collectively holding our breath and praying that the progress continues. We're starting to feel more confident but also realize that she could be intubated for weeks. We'd obviously prefer this to go faster but we're digging in for the long haul. We spoke with the attending doctor last night and he was re-assured when I reminded him that we've been through similar lengthy episodes in the NICU. It isn't fun but we know Madeleine puts up a good fight.

Thanks again for your support. Don't expect further updates today as we're not expecting anything to change. Thanks,

Brent

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

A step forward is a step forward....She is very strong and will take small steps..We are keeping you all in our prayers.
Love
Kellie

Anonymous said...

Brent and Kirsten,

As we patiently wait for the continued healing to take place in Madeliene's body, let's continue to trust that HE who knows her best, holds her close.

I share this verse with you tonight:

Is. 41:13
"For I, the LORD your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’

Bless you both!
Joyce Engelmann

Anonymous said...

Brent and Kirsten, What a journey your family is on. As Joyce said, let God hold your hand through this very difficult time. Keep the steps moving forward little Madeleine. Dee

Anonymous said...

We are praying for Madeleine and for you guys.
Love,
Greg and Michelle

Anonymous said...

Hey guys! We were in DC last week. Tried to get a hold of you but everything we tried didn't work. I emailed Aunt Edith (grandma to you) but did not get a response so...we did not get to see your precious bundle of joy! Maybe next year when we are in town we will get to see her.

We laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on 9/18. Billy's 26th bday was 9/16. It was an awesome experience!!

I'm praying for you little one still. I'm sure you guys get discourage but I gotta tell you - you are awesome. This has been a huge experience for you guys and your first experience and you guys are WONDERFUL PARENTS!!!

Take care...Bill & Bernice

Anonymous said...

Dear Kirsten and Brent,

Jenny has been keeping us updated on the latest issues. Please know that we are think of you and praying for you.

Don't forget that you have family who love you.

-The Marietta Grimmkes

Anonymous said...

Brent & Kirsten,

I trust that you have seen some small improvement today and that Madeliene is beginning to respond to treatment.

Holding you up in prayer.

Joyce Engelmann

Anonymous said...

Brent & Kirsten,
The strength, love and faith you both have is the strength Madeliene absorbs. She is a fighter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love
Mary & Don

Anonymous said...

Brent and Kirsten, We are sending you our love and prayers for Madeleine's continuing progress in her health. Love, Jim,Donna,&Liz