Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Okay

Big morning already. Our lung transplant doctor came by, as well as the heart transplant doctor this morning. Their two teams met with the surgeons early this morning about Bridger. The main surgeon came by last night to talk to me and take a look at Bridger. The general consensus is that this is a very high risk procedure, and the challenges that we would face would be many. The pulmonologist is optimistic, the surgeon is on the fence and the cardiologist is much less optimistic. Throughout this journey, Danny and I have always been clear about our wishes for Bridger. If it is something that can offer Bridger and improved quality of life,then we would like to be able to offer that to him. The problem is that we need caregivers who are willing to provide that care and are able to trust us in doing what is right for our child, not what they think they would do for their own. When it really comes down to it, you will never know what you would do until you are in that position. Okay, I'll get off my soapbox now. Anyway, the big thing today is waiting for his PRA level to come back, if it is to high, then he will not be eligible for transplant because his antibodies would attack the new organs. If this is the case, we will be coming home as soon as possible. If they are low enough, then we will proceed to further testing. As for Bridger, he is having a good day so far. He is talking to all of the physicians and nurses, if they are not paying attention to him, he just talks louder and louder until they can't help but notice and then he just laughs at them. I think it is pretty cute. We are off isolation now, no more masks and gowns. They always test for viruses whenever there is a change in condition and along with this test comes isolation precautions. So at least now, Bridger can see everyone's faces and smiles. I'll let you know when we hear about the PRA.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

WOW! Waht a BIG Morning is right. Bridger is a remarkable and amazing young man. But so are his parents. Staci and Danny you are both amazing. Jos, myself and Grandma Smith have Bridger and both you in our thoughts and prayers always. We really appreciate the blog in hearing how he is doing and the pciatures that you provide. We send our love to you! Jose, Lori and Great Grandma Smith.

ang said...

I agree that no one can accurately predict what they would do in a situation like yours. Most people will never know what you are facing. And that is very good. You and Danny know Bridger. You know what he is capable of because he has already shown you his determination. He doesn't want to give up. I don't know if that day will come, I hope not, but so long as he's showing you his strength, just follow your gut. Look into his eyes. He'll tell you what to do. Wishing you a miraculous PRA result that will wow them all making the greatest skeptic a believer. Love to you all!

Kaidence's Mommy said...

I hear Ya!!!!! So don't feel bad about the soap box. I had a similiar problem at times. Some days it seemed as to every question regarding Kaidence's future their reply was, "well that would take a miracle". I finaly asked one day if they no longer believed in miracles. I told them that I DID believe in miracle and when the Lord let me know that a certain miracle was not part of Kaidence's plan THEN I would move on and look forward to the next miracle and be grateful for that. Yes, my 'ideal' miracle changed over time as Kaidence's health declined so quickly but the miracles that we have been blessed with are just as beautiful, if not more so. Our experiance has helped to mold us and we count everyday as a blessing. Keep the faith and trust. We never know what the future holds but we can always have HOPE and believe because you never know when a miracle may come your way! Keep your chin up. We are praying for you!

The Simmons Family said...

We continue to pray for you family. This whole situation is not easy and you are doing a great job! PRA's are Owen's biggest obstacle, I PRAY that Bridger's will be low and not sensitized. As a parent, you want to try everything possible for your child to live a long, healthy life. The waiting is the worst part of all. Hang in there.

Me said...

This is such an emotional roller coaster. The bottom line is what you feel is right for Bridger. You are in charge of him in this life. We will pray very hard for you and that is antibodies are very very low. Love you guys!

Me said...

I also wanted to let you know that I put yours and Bridgers name on the prayer roll at the temple. Lots of prayers!!

Lenna said...

Bridger is such a ham! Did you tell his nurse that he learned all his rock star ways from his favorite night nurses.
I believe in miracles and I believe Bridger has more miracles coming his way. Thinking about you guys.

g-ma-vicki said...

You are the mom! God gives you gifts needed just for your child alone...some call it mothers' intuition. I call it just part of the Etenal plan.
It sounds like you have some doctors who will tell you the whole story, keep you in the communication loop, and just plain wait for the parent to pray or deeply consider what direction to take using the PARENT's gut feeling, and have a willingness to listen. I am hoping for good news, and if antibodies are the issue; then we continue to pray for the right doctor working with
antibodies well.
Hoping for the open door.
OWEN"S GRAMMA VICKI

Leisa said...

Please, stay on the "soapbox" for as long as you need. That is the great thing about a blog. You can vent your anger, frustration, happiness, excitement, etc. without worry. If someone doesn't want to read it, then they don't have to. And you know we all like hearing from you Staci. Here's to low PRA levels. I believe you are doing what is right for Bridger. Stick to it! We love you all.

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