Well, the boys are doing fine. The doctors changed Max's vent settings again by increasing his pressure by 2 to 46, but further reducing his BPM to 240, and he is tolerating that change very well. His oxygen needs are still in the 75-85% range, but we are praying hard that his lungs will continue to develop, and his oxygen needs will come down. They have also upped Max's feedings to 9 ml of breast milk every 3 hours, and have reduced the amount of TPN and other IV fluids they are giving him. Wes' vent settings are unchanged and his oxygen needs have been between 40-55%, depending on how he feels. When he starts squirming around, he tends to desaturate, and when he is calm and sleeping, his oxygen needs come down. I had a nice calming talk with him this afternoon and sang his favorite song, and next thing you know the kid is sleeping and needs his oxygen turned down. If only I could be there all the time!! Isn't that so similar to our Heavenly Father? When we are squirming around with the trials of this life, the sound of His voice is enough to calm any storm. The biggest difference is that He IS there all the time. Wes is also doing very well on his feedings and is up to 15 ml every 3 hours...and pooping OFTEN. I let the nurses change those diapers...they get paid the big bucks. I know my time will come, but I see no need to rush it.
It has been a long weekend. Kate's mom is not doing well and we are just all emotionally drained and physically tired. We had a very special time with her this morning, however. We were all gathered around her bed and had an impromptu church service that was just amazing. We read some Bible verses and sang some songs...but the highlight was when Kate's mom started to sing the harmony on Blessed Assurance. I will never forget that moment.
Please continue to pray for Kate's family. Pray that God will grant a peace that only comes from Him, a peace that passes all understanding.
Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine!
Oh what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of SALVATION, purchase of God,
Born of His spirit, washed in His blood
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my savior all the day long;
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my savior all the day long
Constantly praying over here. You all are at the front of our minds.
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understanding how torn you must be not knowing which bedside to sit by and how precious they all are. also how utterly weary you must be feeling with all the chasing back and forth and being on edge make sure you take care of yourselves also. I had a verse that got me thru some very tough times and just want to pass it on to you it is called THE WEAVER
ReplyDeleteMy life is but a weaving
Between my Lord and me.
I cannot choose the colors
He worketh steadily.
Oftimes He weaveth sorrow
And I, in foolish pride,
Forget He sees the upper
And I, the underside.
Not 'till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly,
Shall God unroll the canvas
And explain the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful
In the Weavers skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.
He knows, He loves, He cares,
Nothing this truth can dim,
He gives His very best to those
Who leave the choice with Him
1 cor. 13 chapter 12 verse
God bless you guys! I can't imagine the emotional toll that this must all be taking on you guys... but I am always so encouraged by the blessings that you recognize throughout each day that remind you of God's presence. How precious is it that your voice calmed Wes right down and he fell asleep... and that Kate's mom sang to Blessed Assurance. These are moments that you rightfully cherish and I pray that God will continue to carry you through this.
ReplyDeleteStill praying... we all are!
How encouraging to hear how you are able to see the blessings and rejoice in the special moments, seeing how God is right beside you each step of the way. "Those who feel tired and worn out will find new life and energy, and when they sleep, they will wake up refreshed."Jeremiah 31:24-26
ReplyDeletestill praying,
We continue to pray for Max and Wes, and you and Kate. Thank you for the updates that allow us to pray specifically. I know you both have so much going on, but we missed you yesterday at the B-day party!
ReplyDeleteWe are also praying for Kate's family, for peace especially in this time.
MBIKLG
sending our love and prayers - the Nykamps
ReplyDeletewhat an amazing moment with Kate's mom. How true that song is! On our knees for you. --Ryan and Megan DeVries
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