Friday, August 31, 2007

Friday August 31

Another rough day for our little Jack is coming to a close. As I have mentioned he has struggled for the last couple of days maintaining good blood pressures and getting rid of fluid. The doctors were unable to find anything conclusive in the cath lab last night so in an effort to exhaust all resources they did a CT scan this morning. The surgeon was at a loss as to what was causing the hypotension and all of the tests they performed were inconclusive. In an attempt to find out the source of the issue, Dr. Hawkins operated on Jack this evening. He started about 5:00 p.m. and met with us around 7:00 p.m. He told us that his heart is pumping very well, that the corrections made during the initial surgery are functioning as expected, and that by all measures he should not be having the problems that he is experiencing. In the initial operation he used a substance called "gel foam" to stop the bleeding around the vessels. Sometimes, because of the amount that is used, the foam puts strain on the heart and doesn't allow it to be as efficient as possible. Dr. Hawkins suspected that this may be the culprit, however, after removal of the "gel foam" he expected to see a fairly rapid increase in the blood pressure which unfortunately didn't occur. The team of doctors remain at a loss as to what is behind the lack of progress. We continue to be hopeful, and are careful to report that in the hours following tonights operation, Jack has better blood pressure and seems to be responding to the care given him. Once again, our hearts are full of thanks to all of you who continue to keep Baby Jack in your prayers.

8 comments:

Nathan said...

We love you guys and are praying like crazy for you.

c.miller said...

He is beautiful!
You guys are so amazing, your strength is such an inspiration.
We are keeping all of you in our prayers.
I love the name, it is one of my very favorites. Jack Bitner has such a good sound to it. It's adorable!
You guys look great. Thanks for the information. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. Love you!
Christie Miller and fam.

Matt said...

We think of you and baby Jack constantly. He's a strong kind from great parents!

Julee Koplin said...

Jack is the cutest little guy, and I don't say that about all babies. You are in our prayers. I miss you at work, even if you don't miss being at work. Can't wait to meet Jack and see you. Hang in there!
Julee

jburrell said...

Thanks so much for the blog re:baby JackB. It is of great comfort to us to stay informed of his daily changes. We continue to think of you and wish the best for your special family. You are always in our thoughts and prayers.
Lulu, Jan & Wendy

Karen W said...

Sarah---this is a great way to keep us informed. Everyone asks everyday.."what have you heard??" We think of you every day and hope for only the best.....Karen

Maranda said...

Sarah,
Thank you for keeping us informed of how things are going. Little Jack is adorable. My family will keep you, Darren and your little guy in our prayers. Hang in there.
Love ya,
Maranda C.

Gooches said...

sarah we are praying and fasting for you guys like crazy! thank you for the updates! holly gooch and family