Wednesday, February 06, 2008

Change can be good.....Right???



I just wanted to share some cute photos of Kate. Over the last couple of weeks, she hasn't really progressed to the point where we feel comfortable taking her home. I guess the good news is that she hasn't digressed either. Yesterday, we had another conference with the doctors to figure out where to go from here. The main issue has been her blood has been very acidodic, meaning she is not blowing off her CO2 and her kidneys are not compensating. We hit the 9-week mark today and our goal at this point is to just get her out of the hospital and home. Since August, we have debated the issue of a Tracheostomy and have prayed and prayed that this would not be the answer for Kate. I think we were praying so hard that Kate would not need to have this procedure...but ignoring the answer that maybe this is just what she needs. As much as we didn't want to have to make this decision, we felt that in order for Kate to come home and improve her lung and heart function a Trach had to be the answer. Once we came to this decision.....both Bryan and I felt at peace (which we haven't felt for a while). So, early this morning Kate went in and had the Trach placed.

The surgery went really. After the anesthesia wore off.....Kate let us know that she was MAD!!! It's definitely going to take her some time to get adjusted to this, but this sweet little fighter will be able to do it.

Even though it has taken us this long to get to this point, we needed to feel as though we did everything possible to see if Kate could come out of this on her own. After feeling like we had exhausted every possible avenue, we finally feel okay with making the decision for a Trach. So from here (considering everything goes well with the recovery) she'll probably be here for another 1-2 weeks. It's so nice to FINALLY see an end in sight :)

16 comments:

The Hawaiian Howells said...

that is good news. it is so hard to make such big decisions like that but the good news is now you will not have to worry if she is getting enough oxygen to her heart and lungs. Plus when she gets stronger she can do it on her own. I love you guys and am so proud of you for being such amazing parents. love the howells.

Anonymous said...

Marcae, what an exhasting descision, I know you guys made the right one you always do for kate! My prayers are with all of you and hope this is the next step in getting kate turned in the right direction! Love you all !kenz

Miranda at Marz Haus said...

I know this was a tough decision, but it sounds like it's the right one. Can't wait for Kate to come home.

Sure love ya.

Marie Holmes said...

Hi Marcae,
I enjoyed visiting with your mom today at the funeral. She told me all about Kate and the happenings of the day. I am glad that you have come to a conclusion that feels good and peaceful! I know how excited you'll be to bring Kate home! We missed you today, but know that you are where you need to be.

The Faddis Family said...

Wow... like your friend said... Exhausting! I just read your "ground hog day" and than read your latest blog... and yes, "exhausting" seems to be the word to describe it all. But what a relief to finally be able to get somewhere with this decision. I hope it works for her. I love how adorable Kate's hair is. You are good to keep it all done for her. I loved your comments on the candy machine. Im sure I would've had the same thoughts but never admitted it out loud. Anyways, Kate is so blessed to have such amazing dedicated parents!

Fritzsche's said...

It seems like I just talked to you and then all of a sudden big changes took place. I'm so glad to hear that everything went well and hopefully a quick recovery also. I'm so glad that you guys feel at peace with everything and you are doing the right thing. Kate will be home before you know it. No more Groundhog Days! Our prayers are with you.

Kelly Nordfelt said...

I am happy for you in that you were able to feel at peace with such a hard decision.
On another note, where do you get all your cute blog wallpaper! I need a change, but I don't like Pyzam.com Let me know!

Jen said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Jen said...

ahhh sweet Kate! I'm so sorry that sweet Kate has had to go through so much, she is such a fighter! My prayers are always with you and your family.

Love, Jen

sweet pickles said...

Marcae,
I can't imagine the craziness you are going through. I'll cross my fingers Kate can come home soon!

Unknown said...

When are you guys going to join us for dinner. We could even bring you something at the hospital if that is easier. I love Kates hair! Ruby prays for Kate in all of her prayers, it is so sweet!

Jodi Leishman said...

Wow, I don't envy all the complicated decisions you guys have had to make.
I'm glad you feel peaceful with this decison. I hope Kate's recovery road speeds up a little and you can return to a normal life at home.

kacee said...

Kate is lucky to have such great parents who put so much effort into her happiness! I hope all goes well with her recovery and she is home soon!

Garcia's said...

Marcae, I just wanted to let you know we think of your family often and are praying for you.
Suz

Chrispy Critter said...

What about Wednesday the 13 or Friday the 15? Here is my email and phone if that is easier: critterich@hotmail.com

801-484-5904

Lacey said...

Hang in there little trooper!! Kate your such a little miracle! We love you!