Greetings.
Elsa's nurse commented that they were monitoring her head growth because the measurement yesterday was significantly different than the previous day's measurement. Preemies can sometimes have issues of brain swelling, or water on the brain, as a complication to earlier brain bleeds. Mari and I were both very concerned but trusted that the doctors and nurses would do what needs to be done. As in previous scares, we prayed boldly and we trusted boldly that whatever the outcome would be we would have the strength to handle it graciously.
With that as a preface, we were both a bit nervous about what today would bring. I was at work when my phone began to buzz. "It's me and I'm calling with good news..." I should mention that my work location is notoriously bad with cell reception and I only really heard "It's me...good news." After reconnecting on a land line, Mari relayed the update. During the night, the nurse remeasured Elsa's head...no change. The nurse thought that the variance from the previous measurement was due to different measuring angles taken by her and the previous nurse. The doctors performed a brain scan on Elsa and it was 'remarkably improved' since her last scan over a month ago. Swelling and clotting were resolving themselves and it appeared that she had significant healing to her brain. While we won't know for years what complications she may have, this report is the best possible news we could have hoped and prayed for.
Later today, we visited Jonas and his nurse. It was quite a moment of relief for all of us because the nurse had taken care of Elsa early on and was very familiar with her journey in the NICU. Jonas celebrated by taking a few breaks from breathing but did self-correct a couple of times. Perhaps he is beginning to feel a bit self-conscious about not breathing or perhaps he didn't want to take the limelight away from Elsa. I'll chat with him more tomorrow and find out.
Otherwise, Jonas was good. He likes to eat and sleep and usually breathe. We'll keep working on that last one and help him grow out of it.
Our prayers continue for Elsa and Jonas. We also pray that God continues to guide the hands and hearts of the nurses and doctors at the NICU.
God Bless,
Dan & Elsa & Mari & Jonas
Again, this morning, I approached the opening of your daily news blogs filled with a bit of each--eagerness and caution. I guess that this is normal, and certainly explains our need for hopeful and thankful prayers. All of our lives are completely in the loving hands of our Lord. Your personal sharings of Elsa's and Jonas's struggles and successes are so very special and appreciated, bringing our own lives as close as possible to "being there" with you, arms out, and full of hugs for all of you. We unceasingly pray for our Lord's protection and comfort.
ReplyDeleteWe love you so very much. Don and Delores
Wow!! We're cheering for you Elsa and Jonas....And those prayers shall be Bold indeed from here too....Love, Jane and Ralph
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