NICU Marathon

So, the doctors, therapists and nurses aren't joking around when they call it the NICU marathon and/or roller coaster. We are reminded that this is indeed a marathon and not a race with still a long way to go. Each and every day brings something new and Steve & I are doing our best to keep up with it all.

This past week, Nathan has had several tests which have helped to bring us to where we are now. His spinal tap revealed a small amount of bacteria in the spinal fluid which signifies meningitis. The good news is that no bacteria grew in the following 36-48 hours of the test, which means the antibiotics got to it and killed it. He will continue his treatment for meningitis with the antibiotics for about 3 weeks.

Along with the infection, Nathan has had some bleeding on his brain which has gotten worse the past few days. Because of this, Nathan will be transferred to Children’s Hospital. There he will undergo a procedure to relieve the pressure on his brain. This should be a relatively quick surgical procedure and will help us get more answers regarding Nathan's infection.

On top of all that, Nathan is also having some seizure activity. That seems to be the least of our worries right now, but he's on additional medicine to help manage them. They think the seizures could be a result of his brain bleed and/or the meningitis. Our hope is that between the meds and surgery, the seizures will be treated effectively.

On a good note, Nathan has made some very nice progress this week. His vitals remain good, he is being weaned from his pain meds, he's at the lowest settings on the ventilator (they are only keeping him intebated for surgery) and they have increased his feedings twice and he's digesting it well:)

We continue to hope for the very best and cannot thank everyone enough for all the continued support and mostly your prayers.