Tuesday Morning

I had a lovely visit with Baby Heath and Carrie this morning - in a REGULAR room! When I arrived however there was a flurry of activity and Heath was very fussy (frankly, I don't blame him!). He continues to improve but is very sensitive to sensory stimulation and becomes quite emotional. He saved all his little smiles for his mommy this morning and them promptly teared up- his emotions were a little overwhelming for him! Once the doctors and nurses left Heath's room and it became less hectic, Heath settled down for him mommy to eat her breakfast and for Gran Sarah to rub on that sweet little head of his and look at those big brown eyes I love! He quieted down and was able to sleep a little. I hope it gave mommy a break-even if for just a little while.

Heath's new favorite toy is an empty syringe he has been holding for 5 days and refuses to give up for anyone. So, the therapists have become very creative in using the syringe to help him re-learn some fine-motor skills. Because of the lengthy (and necessary) sedation, Heath is undergoing speech, occupational and physical therapy to learn how to be a 10 month old again. He is certainly getting "up to speed" well but tires easily, so they take it step-by-step.

Heath is still being weaned off of the pain meds but withdrawal symptoms seem much better. The are adjusting his feeding amounts to make him more comfortable and still treating him for high blood pressure. All in all, Heath continues to make amazing progress. Since he is in a regular room however, Carrie and Chris are rotating day-night shifts because someone must be with him all the time now. Heath is most easily comforted by his mommy and daddy so they like to stay close!

Uncle Jamie and "Nana" arrived as I was leaving- two special people who have been successful in coaxing a smile from our sweet Heath. He is doing amazingly well but of course has a long way to go. The Tuttles continue to be incredibly thankful, a bit tired, and so grateful that they can begin to look forward. The idea of going home with Baby Heath is both thrilling and terrifying- emotions Chris and Carrie are trying to adjust to.

Please continue to keep the Tuttles in your prayers.

With a grateful heart,
"Gran" Sarah