December 26- Step Down!

Chris called me this afternoon to report that the last couple of days had been challenging. Heath has had a difficult time withdrawing from the medications. The doctors were trying to wean him off of the necessary pain/sedation meds but felt like the process had gone a little quicker than Heath could handle. So, they have given him a patch and minimal drugs to help him with pain/withdrawal symptoms and things have been much calmer and he has been able to sleep (something that has not come easily for Heath the last couple of nights). He is also quite comfortable on Carrie's lap. So much so Chris is trying to "prop" her up so as not to disturb Heath!

The last couple of days, the doctors/nurses had a difficult time putting in a line (port)for the administration of any necessary drugs (including the antibiotics for the CMV infection) but they were finally successful. As you can see from the picture, the line finally went in on the left side of his neck. They will be testing the port to make sure it is working properly but all seems to be working well.

The Tuttles have enjoyed visits from "Nana" (Carrie's grandmother), Ami and Bob Hill, Uncle Jamie, grandparents Bob and Pat and Genie Martin. The Tuttles were able to spend some time late Christmas Eve with close friends of theirs, the Patty family, who has also experienced a health crisis. The Patty's and Tuttles have been a great source of support for one another.

The 6:00 p.m. update is that Heath has officially moved to the step-down unit!! This is a HUGE step for Heath. Ron Shive (FPC Head of Staff) was visiting with the Tuttles and was able to walk with them to their new room in the step-down unit. GREAT news for Baby Heath (and Mom and Dad). I hope to continue to report more good news in the days to come.

Blessings,

"Gran" Sarah