Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Small Update

Ben is doing OK. We spoke with the doctors today and were able to find out a few things. The lab work for the chromosome tests came back normal, so thus far they haven't been able to tie any of Ben's problems to genetics. With the help of a diuretic his breathing appears to be improving some, but it is still fast at times (more often than we want). His Jaundice is improving again as well and will probably be out from under the lights again tomorrow. The improvements in breathing and jaundice will both help with how tired he has been, so that is good. The cardiologist says he doesn't need heart surgery right now, but may at some point in the future. It is not life threatening at this point and they want to see how much can be repaired by his body on it's own or possibly with the help of drugs before they go to surgery. Their main goal at this point is to get him to gain some weight. Gaining weight may help the holes in the heart close up, and if he does need surgery they would prefer he gain some weight before that happens as well. Ben also got examined by the physical therapists today and they will be working with us on how we can help him gain some muscle and strength.

After our visit there today, Melissa feels better now about Ben being at Primary Children's. We both feel he is still in need of special care and he is getting it there. We will try to keep everyone posted on his progress and if necessary, but hopefully not, any setbacks.

Logan is doing well. Not quite sure how much all of this is affecting him yet. He has been spending a lot of time with his grandparents Kim & Kaylene, which he really seems to be enjoying. Unfortunately, because it's RSV season Logan can't come visit Ben. And we are hoping Ben comes home before RSV season ends (usually in April). Logan came to Ogden Regional with us last Sunday, so he could at least be a part of it. Him and I played in the Ronald McDonald Room while Melissa visited with Ben. Primary Children's has certian days when they do activities for siblings, so hopefully we can get him down there to be involved in that. Also, Grandpa Larry will be here later next week for a couple of days, so he should enjoy that as well.

Anyhow, I need to get back to work, so until later, bye, & thank you.

4 comments:

DigitalKindergarten said...

Well, glad to hear such a good report... we wish we could be there! How are you and Melissa holding up and any idea when lil' Ben can come home?

Deb said...

I am so glad to hear better news! I am happy he is getting good care at Primarys. I cant wait until he can go home and meet his brother!

Gwendolyn said...

Glad to hear better news! It seems like maybe he'll get the care he needs down there so he can come home soon! Please let us know what we can do to help- with Logan or whatever. Love you guys!

Ash said...

Go Baby Ben!!! Way to make Mel's b-day a little happier of a day with all good news. Now he better keep this good streak so he can get his lil butt home for us all to see and love. I'm happy things are going well and that Mel feels better. I was worried about her. Thanks for keeping us posted. And tell her she's welcome for the laugh:) Glad I could do at least that.