Saturday, May 12, 2007

10:00 am. Tami just called. When they back off on the ventilator, Kevin's brain pressure goes up. Instead of increasing him back onto the ventilator they are increasing the medicine that controls the intercrainial pressure(ICP). The medicine that is used to control the ICP can possibly "blow-out" Kevin's kidneys. Tami explained there is a very delicate balance between the two. This is why Kevin is still in critical condition. They need to get him off of the ventilator, but they have to keep the brain swelling down. They were told that Kevin is not a candidate for the surgery that removes part of the skull at the base of his neck if they cannot control the ICP. Sarah's cold has gotten worse so she does not feel well at all. Tami asked that we all pray that the others do not get sick as well. The doctor said Kevin will be in this hospital at least a minimum of three weeks. Please continue to pray for Kevin's recovery. They are all emotionally and physically exhausted. Continue to pray for strength and peace for Sarah, Sarah's mom Janet, Everett and Tami (Kevin's parents), and Keith and Kim (Kevin's brother and sister-in-law).

10:04 am. Tami just called again. A small amount of blood is being seen in the tube that goes from Kevin's throat to his stomach. They are not alarmed at this point, but tests will be done to see why.

6:09 pm. Tami just called. The bleeding has stopped. They did not have to do the scope that they thought they would need to do. They decreased the respirator a little more. The highest point is 16. They brought it down to14 and then to 12. The pressure in his brain went way up, but they nowhave it back under control. The intercrainial pressure is higher than they'd like, but they were able to keep the respirator at 12. Tami reportsthat Kevin is still critical, but baby steps are being made. She said shewould give me a morning call and an evening call. They are so very thankful they have such a network of prayer partners. Keep praying!