Jillian Update - We're off the Vent!

Glorious morning to all,

I have been reading your emails to Jennifer this morning. We are blessed beyond measure. I pray that we have the opportunity to be of such comfort and encouragement to each of you some day. I can tell you that I have not been anxious or discouraged during this entire process. I attribute that to God’s peace and your uplifting prayers. I look forward to showing Jillian the tribute built for her through your prayers and supplication as we walk about heaven – yet one more testimony of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

Jillian update:

We’re off the vent! Jillian actually pulled that nasty tube out of her throat. They were ready to have her taken off the vent, but wanted to wait until morning to give Dr. Woodman a rest for the night. This morning I was able to let her hold my finger for over 45 minutes and talk to her quietly every so often. When it was time for me to get back to Jennifer to provide an update I would try to slowly move away, but Jillian would grab back on to my finger to pull me back. So Jillian is now breathing at a rate of about 44 bpm (breaths per minute). Normal can range quite a bit for various babies and also depends on whether or not their resting, eating, or upset at you for moving them around. The main thing is that her oxygen level is staying at 96 – 100 %. Her HR (heart rate) is about 144 bpm (beats per min) on average. She is under the BiliLamp because her little liver is not quite developed enough to break down the biliruben in her body. Biliruben is a waste product as a result of the breakdown of red blood cells. The light helps break the biliruben down into a form that can be passed through the bowels, which is a subject for a future post/email.

Jennifer update:

Jennifer is doing well and on a liquid diet. Dr. Hajovski came to check on Jennifer. She will be on magnesium until tomorrow morning which is making her very sleepy. Her pressures are good, her kidneys are kicking back in and filtering protein properly. Jennifer was given a little doll made by “Threads of Love” which she has pressed against her chest. I’ll take that into Jillian so she can smell Mommy. J

James & Jocelyn update:

The kids are doing well. They are not able to go into the NICU, which is understandably frustrating – but necessary. They are excited and hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa. Aunt Kristi (Jennifer’s sister) came to visit and was a great help as well. Abuelo (my dad) came to visit as well.

Things are going great! Praise God!

Take care,

James