Hello all! I hope everyone had a good Thursday. The boys and Christie had a good day in school and are are their way home as I type. Zander's Thursday was good, but we received news of a setback. He had the barium test earlier today and it confirmed that food is in fact going into the esophagus, but it is also going into his lungs.
According to Dr. Kennedy (neonatologist), the food is taking the path of least resistance and the esophagus is not squeezing the food down properly. Parts of his esophagus squeeze and parts do not. Essentially, his esophagus is not pushing the food down as ours does. Dr. Kennedy said that in all likelihood this will correct itself with time, but for now the bottle feeding has been stopped due to the risk of Zander aspirating.
Dr. Kennedy also had a long conversation with Dr. Kelley (the surgeon) after the test today. It appears that Zander will undergo the fundoplication (Google it) surgery in about 2 weeks. This is the surgery that I talked about earlier where they will wrap the upper part of his stomach around the esophagus to reduce the extreme reflux.
At this point in time, they are feeding Zman through the Gtube and letting him rest. They are increasing his caloric intake with the liquids and keeping his 45 ml feedings the same with the hope of making him stronger and bigger before surgery. Essentially they are fattening him up before surgery.
Although this surgery was a distinct possibility following his prior surgery, it is hard to say that this is exactly good news. We hate that he will have to have all the tubes put back in (the chest tube and likely the tube in the nose), but we realize that this is the best course of action.
Zander remains happy and carefree. He is starting to focus in with his eyes so it has been great to spend time with him. It will be hard to see him revert to a semi-conscious state after seeing him bright eyed and bushy tailed, but God is in control.
The nurses, doctors and the entire medical staff have been great. Even Jim, the parking lot attendant asks me everyday how "the baby" is doing. We know that God has big plans for the Zman and pray that he will continue to watch over us all.
I will write again tomorrow night or Saturday morning. Until then, I wish everyone a happy and safe Friday. The smell of high school football is in the air. Thanks as always for the comments, prayers and encouraging words.
Rest easy Houston, Jackson and Zman....keep moving along. Mommy and I love all of you.
Clancy
7 comments:
We know there is reason for everything, even when we can't determine what that is. We love you, and Zander, we look forward to next season when you will be with us at the games!! I volunteer to hold you the entire time!! Love you, Robbin and the boys
We know there is reason for everything, even when we can't determine what that is. We love you, and Zander, we look forward to next season when you will be with us at the games!! I volunteer to hold you the entire time!! Love you, Robbin and the boys
Dear Father,
Thank you again for the many works we have already seen evident in little Zander's body. Thank you for the wisdom of doctors and other medical staff. Now I come before you again boldly and ask for another miracle. I pray in Jesus name that Zander's healing be complete. Lord I pray the digestive system would come into alignment and function the way you created it to function. I pray that Zander's body would continue to strengthen and thrive. Lord surround him with your ministering angels, may he be under the pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Lord, when life's demands take a toil on Christie and Clancy's faith and endurance supernaturally strengthen them to finish this fight, knowing the victory will be theirs. I pray that the hours of sleep they get right now would be supernaturally lengthened, that they would feel rested beyond the natural. As Christie's body continues to heal from birth bring her comfort and energy. I pray abundant blessings on this precious family. May they feel the hand of God on them everyday, cover them in Your wings. In the strong and mighty name of Jesus I pray, Amen!
Blessings and love,
Amy Dover
Clancy and Christie-
Everytime you talk about the procedures that Zander will undergo I am amazed that doctor's can even perform these things! It just goes to show how an infinite God can use finite minds in major ways! I am thankful that Zander is in such a good place! I will continue to pray for you guys, Zander, and of course his doctors.
I am praying this scripture for Zander today:
Yet I am poor and needy;
may the Lord think of me.
You are my help and my deliverer;
O my God, do not delay.
Psalm40:17
You are loved Covert Family!
AMEN to Amy's prayer. We join in agreement and we will continue to pray for Zander and all of your family. God is still in control and we reach out in faith for total healing of your precious little boy!
Blessings upon you all!!!
Sandy & Tammy Howard
We're keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers! May the struggles of this season of your life be overshadowed by awe at the grace and blessings of God. Zander is precious, and he is already a blessing to so many. Can't wait to hear him in children's choir! :)
Love,
The Zieglers
I don't want Zander to have to have more surgery, but I do want him to be healthy at home with his family. I am sure God is working towards that end. He has brought Zander and family this far. He won't abandon you now.
God bless,
Janet Tilley
Hall & Associates
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