Keira Update 3
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Day 5 for Keira.
Today was a much better day for Keira. Headache was well managed with pain meds. Early morning CT (6 am) looked good! Interesting fact….she has air bubbles and “staining” in and on her brain. Normal for the type of surgery she had and due to bleeding. The bubbles get absorbed within a couple weeks but she isn’t safe to fly with them. Neuro is not something I’m well versed in. Learning all the new things is a great distraction. Keira had her ventricular drain removed. These things become “simple” in the ICU where they just throw down some sterile drapes, as Keira says, “Jab some needles in my head (local anesthetic)” and get on with removing the staples and pulling out the drain. It’s amazing to think it was in the deepest parts of her brain. Tomorrow K will be able to wash her hair. Something she’s looking forward to after a head full of all things medical.
Keira really didn’t eat or drink again today. She took a couple tiny bites of food. No vomiting today but still having intermittent nausea and just so exhausted! Her heart rate was hanging out in the high 30’s today. Shes typically low, but that’s really low! Tomorrow morning is another CT. We are praying her brain looks good without the drain in and she’ll be moved to the regular neuro floor.
Dr Q came in today and reiterated just how terrifying Keira’s situation was with surgery. He told me that he was praying so hard as he was afraid she was going to stroke out. And when she started struggling with her breathing on the ventilator he said he was very scared. But he also told me that he felt God’s presence in the OR. I know God was there and is the reason Keira is here. God led that incredibly skilled team to save Keira’s life. I’m so incredibly grateful to have been here where we had the best neurosurgeons and the best support teams as well. Things could’ve gone so very differently for Keira. She will still have to fight to fully recover but we know all of this is part of Gods path for her.
Tate had a BIG weekend with her aunt and cousin visiting. (Thank you Helen & Hailey!) She logged lots of steps on the beach, did crafts and in general, was reminded again of so many ways God infuses joy into our lives. Movement =‘s pain and there were some moments of tears. Tonight her feet and ankles are looking extra puffy, and she is really hurting. But I’m so proud of the way she fights through to embrace the blessings in front of her.
And I have to talk about Drew here. I’ve been at the hospital mostly. I’ve walked Tim and Drew and Tate through FaceTime for meds and pump programming and line priming, etc. Tim has been here at the hospital quite a bit too and Drew has seamlessly stepped in to support Tate. His patience and love for his siblings is so special. Drew frequently flies under the radar. But this young man has the biggest heart and is one of the kindest humans I know. I love you Drew!