Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Moving Right Along

Willem is doing really, really well.  The two of us had a rough night last night; in a case of insult added to injury, Willem got an ear infection and his eardrum ruptured.  The good news was that he didn't even notice his chest incision.  The main question on his mind was, "Mom, how do I get out of here?  Can you get me out of here?"  They finally got him settled down at about 3 am.

He's been getting better and better all day today.  He'd had an elevated heart rate and temperature, and those both came down.  They took out several IV's and the catheter, so most of his extra lines and wires are gone and he's a lot more comfortable.  He was able to start eating and drinking today.  The original plan was that he get out of bed and do some walking, but everything else took a little too long, so we'll get to that tomorrow.  This afternoon they moved him from the ICU to a regular room.  Apart from the fairly gruesome chest tube, he looks fantastic.

As we walk the halls, we hear other parents on the phone, explaining to their loved ones how their kids are doing.  And I feel so blessed that Willem has this fixable problem and that things have gone so well.  I'm also incredibly thankful for all the doctors and nurses who make it their work to care for people.  It's hard to imagine a more important job, and I have so much admiration for all my friends and family in the medical field.

Shaun said it before, but I too would like to thank you all too for your prayers and support.  It has been such an encouragement to us.  I'm guessing that we'll be heading home before we know it.  When Thanksgiving comes we will be feeling particularly thankful, both for Willem's health and for all of you.

5 comments:

Gretchen said...

I'm so glad to hear such a good update! He is a little trooper. =0)

Anonymous said...

still prayin' for all of you guys - so glad for the good news.

Anonymous said...

thanks for keeping us posted as we are still praying for you and your family. -rachel & lenny,too

Anonymous said...

Glad to hear he's doing well. we continue to lift him and your family up in prayer. Josh

Anonymous said...

Glad you are out of the ICU room already-I'm sure it felt plenty long to you all but that's such great news. I do know what you mean about the sobering conversations and sights at a Children's hospital. WE are ever so thankful for Willem's great healing. Keep it up Willem!