Sunday, April 10, 2011

Turning Point

It's been a tough few days.  Scarlett seemed to be doing really well on Friday when we got discharged.  By that night, as we were getting ready for bed, she lost her good feeling.  She was sick over and over again.  I was on the phone with the on-call oncology doctor to figure out how to re-dose medication she threw up a few times, since every time we got some in, it came right back out.  Once she started, she couldn't stop.

We decided to hook her up to the feeding pump for a slow drip of Pedialyte overnight to rehydrate her.  Once she is dehydrated, she spirals down very quickly, but it seems that a steady stream of fluid brings her back.  I have also experimented with her medication schedule and have a better idea of how to time all the anti-emetics to keep her on track.  She has 8 daily medications to balance side effects, deficiencies and immunities.  

Now, after a few days of slow improvement, she had a full 4 ounce bottle with no problem.  I don't think we will rush to remove the tube, but I am optimistic that we have turned the corner on this round.  She is perking up, had a bath and is now calling me to rescue her from her crib after a nap.

14 comments:

Jamie said...

She has such a wonderful mommy. Who else would know just what to do to make her feel better. You are great!. Glad she is feeling better.

TheCorbinStory said...

Good to hear she is doing well! I just met two families up here at the McDonald house that have kids with cancer and I will share Scarlett's story with them, so maybe it will help them find peace. :)
http://ofkidsandcows.blogspot.com

Keri V. Kennedy said...

You Rock Brandi! You've got this so firmly under control now you swooped right in and managed this mini-crisis without an ER trip! Awesome! Kudos to you.

Barb said...

You are all an inspiration! I pray for Scarlett and all of you every day. Continued blessings as you take one day at a time with courage.

Anonymous said...

I'm praying for her right now!

sligo654 said...

I haven't been able to check on Scarlett's story for over a month but am so glad to see things are going pretty well. What a strong family you are - sending thoughts for continued strength! Erin (March 2010 BBC mama)

Stephanie said...

Sending lots of love to Miss Scarlett! I am glad she is feeling a bit better. I still check up on your blog every few days and always meant to leave a comment but it doesn't always happen! Just wanted to let you know I am still rooting for her and that I think you are doing an amazing job!

April said...

Great job, Mommy! Crisis averted because you were able to "Mom Up!"

Marsha said...

You are doing such a good job Brandi! As others have said, you really are such an inspiration - all of you! Still praying for all of you.

MC said...

Glad to hear that she made it through Monday successfully! Praying for a great week for all 3 of you.

Jenny said...

Seriously you are so amazing! Scarlett is so blessed to have such a strong mom. You seem to just take it as it comes and master things like injections, fluids, meds, ect. I pray to have an ounce of your strength and patience with my son. As usual we are keeping you guys in our prayers.

Unknown said...

I pray every day for your baby girl, she is such a strong fighter and blessed to have amazing parents who will do anything to get it just right. God Bless you for being as great as you are. I hope she continues to eat and eventually can hydrate herself.
I pray for happy days and peaceful nights <3 Much love and prayers

Anonymous said...

I'm always praying for your Butterfly, and you and Chris. And I just wanted to reiterate that you are doing a wonderful job! The fact that you were/are able to mom-up and do all the special things that Scarlett needs is just amazing :) Keep up the good work, and hang in there! Many prayers coming your way <3 <3 <3

Kelley said...

I am so impressed with your strength and courage throughout this journey. I love it when you say that it's time to "mom up". You, Brandi, are the epitome of "mom up". Continued prayers for sweet Scarlett, you and Chris.