Ups and Downs

Another busy day for Mason

More roller coaster today...When I got there, Mason's nurse told me that he had already had a busy morning. His CRP had come back really high (normal is around 10 and his was 212) which is an indicator of inflammation/infection. This was really the only lab value that was a red flag and clinically he was his usual spunky self. They went ahead and drew blood and urine cultures to check but chose not to put him on antibiotic because he didn't look sick. They will continue to watch this very closely.

Another thing was his weight was down today (2 lb. 5 oz from 2 lb. 6 oz. the day before) and his ostomy output was up (has been averaging 15-19 and today was 29) so they were concerned about his feeds so they decreased them back down to 2.6 mL/hour from 3. Another thing they are going to watch. And his x-rays for his wrist came back with changes showing Rickets' so they are going to supplement him with calcium and phosperous. She said the best things for him will be full feeds and that he will grow out of it. They will also supplement him with Vitamin D and everyone who works with him and us have to be extra careful because he is prone to fractures.

Cranial ultrasound showed an increase in fluid on the left hemisphere. They continue to watch this very closely to check for hydrocephalus which would mean surgery to implant a shunt in him so that the extra fluid could drain. Please continue to pray. It is hard not to get discouraged on days like today with everything that has gone on. But I know that Mason can be completely healed and overall he isn't doing too bad. He certainly didn't look sick so I am hoping that all of the cultures will come back negative and that it was another lab error. I continue to be reminded how easy this isn't and long for the day when I look back on this and it is just a blur. And our little boy is home and healthy.

On a lighter note, Mason got moved to a window seat. Josh has been requesting this since we have been there and finally there was an opening. So here is a picture of Mason's home for now:

Thanks to Lindsay Franks and Pierce's Project (www.piercesproject.com) for Mason's beautiful blanket/isolet cover as part of a care package. She reached out to me over facebook when she saw our story (Pierce is a 23 weeker as well and is doing great...another fighter) and has been a great resource for me to help ease our worries when things aren't going well because she has been there. Thanks to so many other people who have also sent encouraging words/messages through facebook. I have tried to respond to some but many I haven't had a chance to and just know that I am so thankful for them. They are helping us so much through this rough time. And thank you for your continued prayers.

Philippians 4:6-7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.