Pacing Ourselves

Mason had another low key day today - his oxygen need was up, it was down, and is ending up the day at 2.5 liters (the limit that was set last time we left the hospital). His mood is steadily improving and he is smiling more and more -- Daddy even got a few giggles as he tickled Mason's neck with his goatee and kisses.

We did see some changes in the routine today to possibly address the increased carbon dioxide that the lab showed and get him more stable in preparation for the surgery next week. So that Mason doesn't catch a bug while here in the hospital, all the providers coming in have to put on a gown and mask. It is quite inconvenient for them, but makes sure that they don't carry in something from another patient. We've also increased both the inhaled steroid and the diuretics in an effort to decrease the dependence on the oral steroids. So far we haven't been able to do that, but maybe this time, it will be different. The other change to Mason's medications is the addition of another inhaler. This is supposed to be a long-acting asthma type medication. We tried it a couple of times before he came in, but it may have been too late at that point so we didn't see any positive effects. Now that his system has improved some, maybe it will help.

The new round of doctors is on tomorrow, but most of them already know Mason or know about him (being in the same hospital 3 times in 2 months will do that). Hopefully there won't be any big surprises. As I'm writing this tonight, I think the plan is still for Mason to have surgery on Dec. 9th, but I don't know if we will stay here until then or go home and come back. I guess it all depends on how stable he gets and can stay. I'm hoping that he improves enough that we can do well for a few days at home and get some good rest before what will likely be a long hospital stay after surgery.