August 26, 2008 - Progress Report

Hi all,

Kaitlyn went back to Shriners Hospital today to have an early check up. We thought she might have had an infection because there were a few bumps around the incision site that we hadn't noticed before. Kaitlyn was having sharp pains in those areas. Well, the good news is that it was not an infection. Praise God!! They were bumps caused by the end of the ribs that were cut. We hadn't noticed them before because her back was swollen. As the ribs continue to grow, the pain will change and the bumps should be less noticeable.

Kaitlyn switched to a lower level pain medication, which is a good sign that the pain level is decreasing. She is still taking more medication than someone her size normally takes. Kaitlyn is still in pain most of the time, but it is getting better. Her stomach was bothering her because of all the medication. She lost 9 pounds in the last 8 weeks. The doctors are concerned about her weight loss because this took her down to 81 pounds. She is back on a two hour feeding schedule (during waking hours), with high calorie/high fat foods. This is not good for me as I have very little resistance to the foods I'm giving her.

At times, she is not able to get herself up or turn her body on the couch like she was able to do a week ago. The doctor assured me that this is normal because her body is changing. Kaitlyn is learning what she can do without causing too much pain and trying to stay active part of the day without overdoing it, so that she is in bed the following day. It's been a fine line, but we are learning.

Kailtyn's doctor said that it would be about 4 more weeks before I could leave her for more than a few hours at a time. I am starting back to work part time next week in order to keep our medical coverage and cover future expenses. I will be working a split shift, so I can come home and check on Kaitlyn at lunch time for a few hours. We truly appreciate our family and friends that have helped us with expenses (including food and other items). I don't know what we would have done so far without you!!!

Kaitlyn was happy when the doctor reiterated that she shouldn't be doing any housework, or lifting anything more than a few pounds. I told her that there would be plenty to do when she's feeling better.

She starts independent home study next week and we are hoping that she has the energy to stay awake and complete what she needs to each day.

Please keep her and our family in your prayers. We appreciate it!!!

Thank you,
Ruby