Sunday, December 6, 2009

Every Little Bit Counts

Today Braden is doing a little better. After heading south quickly in the first 24 hours, the doctors were finally able to stabilize him with a very aggressive combination of machine and medicine support. He has pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in his lungs) which prevents blood from reaching the lungs and carrying oxygen to the rest of his body. Since stabilizing him, the doctors have been gradually weening him off of both the machines and medicines. He still has a long way to go, and will likely require breathing assistance for several weeks. The doctors also have to manage the aggressive treatment with caution as many of the things they are doing could lead to permanent damage to Braden. While these developments move Braden in the right direction, doctors are quick to remind us that he has a long way to go and is still in very critical condition.

Braden is watched closely by a nurse assigned to him 1:1 where in addition to all the important medicines and machines she monitors, she is also usually adjusting Braden's hospital sunglasses that he tries to take off constantly, even though they are there to protect him from his lights. Braden got to meet Poppa Godley today which was a nice treat for him since his middle name, William, is in Poppa's honor. He is also showing an interest in our voices and touch. When they let us open the window for a few moments to talk to him, sometimes he reaches out his hand in the direction of our sound or attempts to grip a finger that they let us place, but not move, on top of his hand.

Brian and I have aged about 40 years in the past 3 days but are definitely feeling some relief in the fact the situation is moving in a better direction. We feel every prayer coming through as does Braden. We have faith our little guy is going to continue to fight and pull through these hurdles.

p.s. As many of you know, we have made life long friends with another patient and her husband. They hit 32 weeks today and we could not be more elated that they check off another milestone on their journey. She is set to deliver December 21st and we ask you to keep them in your thoughts and prayers along with Braden.

15 comments:

  1. I'm so happy to hear that Braden is making some positive progress. I will continue praying for you all.

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  2. We are routing and praying every day. Keep up your positive outlook and undying strength. Grow Braden Grow!

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  3. Wow, Im so happy to read this and hear things are looking up and that Braden continues to be a fighter. Take care of yourself mama, and send my Congrats to Missy and Russ :)

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  4. Every little bit...Daisey Dog is here rooting for little Braden!

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  5. This is so wonderful to hear! It is so amazing to see everyone's thoughts and prayers shine through in your baby boy's improvements and finger gestures. :)

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  6. I think about you guys a lot and am praying for you. I am really glad to hear that things are improving.

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  7. Yay, Braden. That's our little Betts. What a truly humbling and inspiring journey to watch him fight and grow stronger every day. What a treat to have him reach out to you, literally. All of our love to you guys.

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  8. Your strength is incredible. I am sure Braden has that same fight!

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  9. Praying for all 3 of you daily.

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  10. Prayers going out for your little trooper, and you and Brian.
    Fight, little Braden!
    Hoping for more good news in the weeks ahead...

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  11. I'm so happy to hear that you three are resting in the strength of the Lord in the midst of this storm. All of you are in my prayers. Keep up the good fight. I love you guys.

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  12. You are all surrounded by angels and energy; continue to grow little Braden! Prayers and blessings continue to you all!

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  13. I can't imagine what you guys must be going through. We are keeping Braden in our thoughts and prayers and look forward to more good news as the days and weeks progress. Stay strong.

    The Levys (Steph, Gary, and Jack)

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  14. We're praying for all 3 of you! Your strength truly is such an inspiration. Little Braden is so blessed to have you two as his parents. Love, Dawn

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