Details (no holds barred)

For those of you that don't know the details, Finn has pneumonia that has escalated dramatically. He was admitted to the hospital Friday night after 7 days of being terribly sick at home (and improper medical advice). Yesterday they operated on his left lung to remove a bunch of gunk from the cavity surrounding the lung (basically fluid in the lung leaks out and turns to pus). It's called a VATS procedure. Video Assisted Thorasic Surgery. If you have a strong stomach you can look into the condition/procedure. Even though they were able to "clean him out," he still has the pneumonia in his lung. He had to have the surgery to give the lung room enough to expand again and fight the infection. He is completely sedated in the Pediatric ICU for the next 2 days. From here they'll move him to the pediatric wing to recover for two weeks. There they will be treating him for the actual pneumonia, and monitoring his progress after surgery. Then it's six months before he's FULLY recovered 100%.

He is continuing to remain stable, has had successful blood/plasma transfusions to help keep his hemoglobin up, and is on ventilator assisted breathing. It's a hard thing for all of us to endure. But tomorrow they hope to start slowly bringing him back to consciousness. He's already wiggling his toes. :) We are staying positive! My parents came in to help. We've already had so much support and love. Thanks to everyone for your continued prayers. I know Finn feels them, and so do we.

Just a few things to remember:
1. If your child has a cough/trouble breathing, don't hesitate to take them in to the doctor.
2. (the important part) If it's pneumonia, be AGRESSIVE with your care provider making sure every aspect has been taken care of (repeat X Rays, if necessary, take them in for frequent visits, and call to check in with your doctor often--be annoying).
3. Trust your gut instinct. An expenive ER copay is worth it, whether it results in reassurance or treatment. It's best to be safe during this season.
4. Make sure you have a pediatrician you trust and feel good about. If you have the slightest misgivings, get a new doctor now! You never know when a fluke infection will come up.
5. Fill up your spiritual reserves. :) It comes in handy when the weight is so unbearable that it's the only thing bearing you up. I've relied heavily on the prayers and positive thinking of myself and others. And I'm so thankful for that.