Sunday, June 27, 2010

Update on Vivian - 6/27

Not a lot to report today.

I went to Fort Worth for part of the day to attend TCU orientation with Will. The doctor and nurse in the PICU yesterday encouraged me to go, telling me that Vivian was in good hands and was sedated and unaware of whether I was there or not, while Will would appreciate my being with him (that's debatable given that he's an 18-year-old boy but a nice thought!). I relished the opportunity to rejoin the real world for a bit, and I enjoyed the time I was able to spend with Will. I was grateful that Robert stayed at the hospital today to watch over Vivian.

I was at the hospital for several hours this morning and again this evening, but I missed the doctor's daily "State of the Nation" address. From what I can tell, though, Vivian is holding steady. She is doing well flushing the damaged muscle cells out of her body. Her CPK (muscle enzyme) numbers had dropped from over 10,000 to around 5,000. I think they want them below 300, but at least we're heading in the right direction. Vivian was low on potassium and magnesium this morning and has been receiving infusions of those in her IV. She is also now receiving very small amounts of nourishment (something like a teaspoon an hour) through a feeding tube. The doctor wants to see how she handles that before increasing the amount. They have still not identified the bacteria that made Vivian sick, but she seems to be responding to the broad spectrum antibiotics they're giving her because her fever has not returned and the material they're suctioning from her lungs is clearer. Her arm that had the surgery seems to be healing well. They are going to begin some OT and PT with Vivian tomorrow. Still quite a long way to go, but Vivian seems to be taking baby steps in the right direction.

Thank you again for your prayers and words of encouragement. They are sustaining us.


"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43:2-3

14 comments:

lmk said...

Eloise- I am simply stunned! I was in Wisconsin for the week end...and the last thing I expected when I sat down at the computer this evening..was to find sweet Vivian had hit such a major bump.

My prayers are with you and Vivian...both for rest and for a speedy recovery!

Maggie said...

So glad things have settled down and that Vivian is headed in the right direction. I'll continue to pray for her recovery!

Kate said...

Eloise,

We continue to lift up sweet Vivian and your entire family. I really have no words except to say that I am thinking of you and praying for a quick and complete recovery.

Take care,

Kate

sevenalstons said...

We are still praying for sweet Vivian and your family. I hope that you are able to get some rest and find some peace throughout this difficult situation. I'm so happy to hear she is headed in the right direction! Many, many prayers are going out for a speedy recovery.
Hugs from upstate New York

Whitney and the Preppy Puppies said...

Eloise, I am so sorry about Vivian. I pray that she continues to take baby steps in the right direction. Hugs to you and your family. And Spencer sends special Cavalier hugs to Tucker. xo xo

Jan M said...

So thankful to hear of Vivian's baby steps toward better health. May they continue and increase. While your mind may have mostly been with Vivian, I am sure that Will was grateful for your presence at orientation. Many prayers and positive thoughts continue for you and your family.

CRICKET said...

Sednign positive thoughts to Vivian and hoping she recovers quickly! I can;t imagine the anxiety you must feel - hang in there!

The Spillman Family Blog said...

My prayers for healing, comfort and peace are with Vivian and your family.
Blessings,
Michele

Sherrie said...

Thanks for the update Eloise. I am so glad Vivian is holding strong and that you were able to go to orientation with Will. I will continue to pray for a speedy recovery for Vivian!

Maureen said...

Eloise,
Good to hear that Vivian is holding her own. And it is wonderful that you were able to attend the college orientation with your son. I continue to think of you, Vivian and the rest of your family.

Take care of yourself.
M

The 5 Bickies said...

oh my...I was off line all weekend and am just now reading about Vivian's infection and return to the hospital. I am so sorry that she has been so sick. I pray her numbers and vitals continue to improve. I pray for you, Robert, Will and Dots as well. I'll be checing back frequently!

JMW said...

Eloise, I am so sorry to hear this. Again, I will continue to keep Vivian, you and your entire family in my prayers.

Lizzy Loves Lilly said...

Eloise - I had not checked your blog for a few days, and I was so sad to hear about Vivian. You are in my thoughts and prayers. You and your family are so amazing, and I am glad to be able to be a part of your life as a blog reader.

3 Peanuts said...

Praying and praying for you all. love,
Kim