Friday, October 22, 2010

Due Date

Today is Juliet's "due date". Today she is 107 days old.

I have mixed feelings about it all. Part of me is heartbroken that she was not born much closer to this day. She has gone through SO much to get to this point. The other part of me is proud to have such an amazing daughter that has fought with every ounce (literally) of power that she has. Juliet is strong. Juliet has spirit. Juliet is beautiful.

Unfortunately today, the above qualities are slightly lacking. She is VERY swollen. And, I thought that her neck/chin couldn't get any bigger. Boy was I wrong. Her fiestiness is being kept at bay with LOTS and LOTS of medicine. It is taking a lot to keep her relaxed. She is on antibiotics, morphine, anti-anxiety meds, blood pressure meds, TPN/lipids, and a diuretic. She is on the ventilator and is filled with lines and tubes again. She has a peripheral IV, a femoral line, an arterial line, a foley catheter, a repogle drain, an endotracheal tube, 3 telemetry leads, a pulse oximeter, and a skin temperature probe. She is wearing eye shields to block out light - this helps keep her calm. It is very hard to see her like this, but I know it's only temporary. The worst is behind us. Each day forward should be better with less medicine, less ventilatory support, and less fluid retention. This is just another hurdle to get her home. She will fight like she always has. She doesn't know any other way.

Happy "Due Date" Juliet Grace.

1 comment:

  1. Jess & Chris,
    I know this must be very hard for you to see Juliet this way and struggling to get better. I feel your pain and her's as well. Just think positive thoughts as she continues to recover. She is at her worst right now but she's a fighter and will get through this hurdle as well. We are hoping and praying for things to continue to improve and for her to come home to you all soon. Keep your chin up! We love you and are with you in spirit......laurie

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