Monday, July 12, 2010

Update on Vivian - 7/12, part I.

Have I ever liked roller coasters? That answer would be "no." So would someone please put me back on the Peter Pan ride or the carousel?

This morning we were caught off guard when Dr. Matson told us that he had been on the phone with one of Dr. Riela's associates (Vivian's neurologist is out of town this week) and that there was concern that Vivian had not woken up more or made more progress. The two of them thought it would be prudent to have an MRI done on Vivian to rule out the possibility that she'd suffered a stroke or other injury to her brain. Of course my instinct was to run for the nearest corner and curl up in a ball, but Robert calmly explained to Dr. Matson the positive signs he'd observed yesterday and said that he felt that the reemergence of the pain from Vivian's arm injury had interfered with her recovery and that now we were beginning to catch glimpses of the Vivian we know. Dr. Matson seemed surprised and encouraged by this news and decided to postpone the MRI to Wednesday to see how things progress in the next day or two.

From where I sit, it seems that each time Vivian has started to rouse, she has been so agitated about the tubes in her body and the restraints on her arm (not to mention finding herself wearing a diaper when she so prides herself on being a "big girl") that we've had to administer sedatives. Perhaps Vivian is more sedated than she should be given what she's receiving, but I don't believe we've been able to see a clear picture of her yet because of the medications.

One very positive development: as of this morning Vivian is completely off of all oxygen and is breathing successfully on her own! That is most welcome news.

A representative from the children's rehab facility met with us this morning for an intake evaluation on Vivian. She mentioned the possibility of Vivian receiving intensive therapy at their facility during the day but returning home at night. I was elated to hear of that prospect because I'm convinced Vivian's agitation could be assauged if we could just get her back home in her own room, which for Vivian is akin to throwing Brer Rabbit in the briar patch.

A speech therapist is going to perform a swallow evaluation on Vivian this morning to determine if we can begin trying to get her to eat and drink again. A physical therapist is coming at 11:30 to try to get Vivian into her beloved stroller to see how she responds to that.

Please join me in praying that Vivian shows great progress today and tomorrow, that she passes her swallow study with flying colors and that she finds comfort in being in her stroller again. To God be the glory.


"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God." Psalm 43:5

13 comments:

The Hayden Family said...

So thrilled with all the GOOD news!!!!!!! Yay!

And the pink bow on the cast is darling!!!!

Debbie K. said...

Doctors - they are good for some things, but they don't know it all. Only a child's parents can see and understand the progress of a sick child. I believe, also, that our sweet Vivian is still hiding underneath all that medication. Heck, I would be highly upset to wake up to find a diaper on me and have all these tubes attached. Praying that all goes well with the swallow test and physical therapy. I know you and Robert just want your daughter home. (((Hugs))) from SE Alabama ~ Debbie K.

Unknown said...

I see this as really positive news. Stay strong with what you believe and continue to let the doctors know what you are seeing of the Vivian you know.

Unknown said...

You and Vivian are in my prayers! I know every baby step in the right direction is just the glimpse you of things/healings/blessings to come.

I pray for renewed strength and endurance for you! She needs you so much right now and you have others that need you also. I can tell that God is walking each step with you and that you are giving to Him the burdens that are heavy. Continue forward with His peace! Much love - Mary Wertheimer McElyea

www.IAmSecond.com

Susan at www.ugogrrl.com said...

Love hearing the good news - praying for sweet Vivian and all of you!

Kate said...

I am so happy to hear of each little gain sweet Vivian makes. Our prayers will continue for your family.

kate

Dianne said...

This is a lot of good news. Do not let the negatives play on your mind. No one is as familiar with the way Vivian acts as you and her dad are. I am praying and I know all will be well.

Jan M said...

Eloise, you are so very strong. I would have curled up in a ball long ago. Thank goodness you have seen and observed "your" Vivian. That is sometimes more important than what doctors see. May our prayers continue to strengthen Vivian, you, Robert and all the family in the way most needed.

Holly said...

This roller coaster ride continues...but I KNOW that you realize how many prayers and people are with you. One of my favorite hymns comes to mind..."With heavenly armor we'll enter this land...the battle belongs to the Lord".

Your faith encourages ME...and I have shared with many moms in our office and Vivian is on their prayer list as well. More answers are coming! Holly

3 Peanuts said...

Glad that things seem to be looking up. Praying for continued improvement and a good swallow eval.

suixijiangxi said...

Keep emphasizing to those who are not normally around Vivian of her personality....I cannot imagine her frustration with her unfamiliar surrounding and new pain that keep coming at her each day...We are surely praying on our end....and are asking our friends to do the same....

Praying for comfort and blessings to come...
g parker

AJLinBoston said...

I am sending prayers your way that you can get back on the gentle Peter Pan ride soon :)

Sharon said...

The old phrase "Your parents know best" comes to mind. I happy to hear that your doctors are listening to your concerns and observations, obviously you and Robert do know Vivian best, her likes and dislikes, etc. Praying for her release to the rehab facility soon!...Sharon