January 6, 2020 Update

Our sweet little guy is still struggling a bit today.  This is not atypical of what they have seen with this virus.  We had originally been cautioned that days 3-5 would be the worst, but when we were talking to Austin's nurses today, they felt a more accurate observation is really days 5-7.  So, as bummed as we were to hear that "turning the corner" may still be a day or two away, we are grateful for their expertise and honesty.

I'll do my best to summarize the day (I wasn't here...yep, I went to school)!  Brian was here as we always make sure one of us is with Austin at all times.

• Labs this morning came back with a low hemoglobin.  Austin's baseline is low (8's and 9's), but he was 5.5 today.  They gave him a unit of blood late this morning.  We will know the impact of the blood transfusion when they draw labs tomorrow morning.
• Early this evening they decided to increase his breathing support.  They changed him from the CPAP setting to the BYPAP setting.  This will actually ensure that his airways and lungs (all the way to the bases) are getting the oxygen they need.  He's currently on 60% oxygen and room air is about 20%.  So he's getting a decent level of support but is no where near the max.  Austin's O2 sats are hanging in the mid 90's and his heart rate has decreased to the low 100's.  His heart rate has been high (150's - 180's) because he's been working so hard, so it's great to see it at more appropriate levels.
• Austin is now receiving 2 new medications (both temporary).  They started him on Lasix to help him get some fluid off his lungs.  They also started IV Precedex to help him relax and for comfort.  He's been getting pretty agitated and having difficulty snoozing.  He's not sedated, but getting a small amount to "take the edge off".  He just doesn't feel well and he's letting us know.

I think that's all for today.  I'm here with him tomorrow, so I'll be sure to keep you posted.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your prayers, love and support.  We are surrounded by Austin's village and we are so appreciative.

Goodnight!  Hugs!

Tara and Brian

Max and Austin