Sunday, February 20, 2011

Yesterday they tried to wean Benjamin off the ECMO using the conventional ventilator. However, it didn't work. His oxygen levels are ok but he is having a hard time blowing off his CO2 (carbon dioxide). They are now trying the oscillating ventilator to see if that will help him. Right now they are changing the circuit of his ECMO machine since it has a few clots in it and lot of fibres (stringy clots). We're trying not to worry too much since it doesn't actually take that long to do but yet it is a very big thing.

We're trying to be patient as he is not getting better as fast as we were hoping. It's still a very big rollercoaster. It seems like one day we get good news and the next day it isn't as good. Our emotions are very up & down.

Yesterday he took a baby step forward but today he is staying the same but at least he didn't go backwards. We still sleep with one ear open listening for the phone & always wondering if the call is going to come.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Dear Greta & Gary,
Grandma Langbroek "leeft met jullie mee" (is thinking of you). She is praying that the Lord gives you strength and that Benjamin is healed. Lots of love from Grandma (Great Grandma)

Anonymous said...

Dear Greta & Gary,
I am continuing to pray for you both and especially for Benjamin. God is our refuge and strength.
Lots of love and hugs from Mom (Grandma)

Anonymous said...

Dear Greta and Gary we hope and pray as Benjamin is still a concern for us all that the Lord gives us strength and comfort knowing that HE is in control of his life .This morning prayer was offered in Church on his behalf , and we also are praying for you all. We hope that even if there are small steps we may be thankfull for that to the Lord .We wish you a blessed Sunday .Love from Dad and Eleanore and family ,Hugs .

Michelle Vandepol said...

that's understandable -- your emotions being up and down. know that the Lord stays the same and lean on Him. praying for you :)

Janet Les said...

Dear Greta and Gary,
We thank the LORD for being with you through ups and downs. To HIM be the Glory! We pray you will continue to see improvements and be encouraged.
Sincerely, Janet and Corney

Anonymous said...

Praying for you all.
Reminds us of a song we love: The God of the mountains is still God of the valleys, the God of the day is still God of the night. Blessings, Troy & Lori Van Beek