Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Riding a bike downhill


I arrived this morning to the respiratory therapist adjusting Alex's breathing tube. An x-ray indicated that it was not quite in far enough. After adjusting it, Alex is clearly agitated and "feisty" as her nurse Paul describes her when she's mad. They think it's now in too far since she keeps trying to cough and she looks so uncomfortable. They attempt to adjust it again. Her machines are beeping non-stop, her little arms are flailing (as much as they can with restraints), and I'm trying to hold it together.

Paul tells me that some of the cultures came back and she is still positive for RSV and a new one HMPV (Human metapneumovirus) which is basically another really bad respiratory virus or what Paul refers to as RSV on steroids. Her little body has been trying to fight off both of these infections that can take out a typically healthy teenager. She is letting the ventilator breathe for her and as a parent this is painful to see. Paul reassures me that it's like she's riding a bicycle downhill and when she has the energy and strength to start riding uphill, she will start breathing on her own over the ventilator. The tube is finally adjusted and Paul notes that this should keep her out of trouble for a couple of hours.

Please pray for strength for our family and healing for Alex. We are lifted by your prayers and your comments mean the world and really do encourage us when we are feeling down. Thanks for being along side us and for your ongoing support.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

The NLo's are with you always! We are definately praying!! Thanks for keeping us updated.
~Auntie Natalie

Anonymous said...

We are also with you always and praying hard. Chin up, even though I know it's hard to do.
Love,
Nana Carol
Poppop Bud
and Uncle James

Anonymous said...

Hang in there. Alex has been in my mind all day and I am praying. I've sent your blog out to our small group, my parents and extended families to ask for their prayers and passing on the blog to their friends who are prayers. She's going to make it. I wish there was something we could do to make this experience better....but I will definitely keep praying!
giving you a big hug in spirit!
claire

Anonymous said...

Stay strong Diffees! Alex will start riding her bike soon. Send my love to little Alex.
-Cousin Rachel

Anonymous said...

So I'm seating here reading and tears are streaming down my cheeks...It just makes me hurt so bad as I can't even begin to imagine what you all are going through. I know I'm not supposed to cry but sometimes it's just too hard, being your little sister I'm always looking to you for support and now when I see you, jimmy and alex having to go through this it kills me. I just want you to know that I love you all soo much and if there is anything you need please let me know. After the rain must come the sun. We are just waiting for it to shine...

Love,
Lauren, Uly, Alexis and Isaac

Anonymous said...

We are praying for you three. Sending you love,

The Womacks

Anonymous said...

I say prayer for all of you every day.
Uncle Ray

Anonymous said...

Hello to the three of you, you are not alone. Psalm 121:2-3 My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip or to be moved; He Who keeps you will not slumber.

Anonymous said...

We will pray for you and Alex. Have faith in our Lord that he is watching over her. There is no doubt in my mind that she is strong and a fighter. Sending all of our love to you.

Veronica