She's not on CPAP, but something called NIPPV. She got to go on this ventilator a few days ago. Still far better for her than being intubated. She's still adjusting to it, so yesterday was a pretty hard day for her. Her nurse, Lindsey, and I spent hours trying to console her so she wouldn't "fail" on this vent and have to get re-intubated. Loel was her RT. He was really helpful yesterday too. These people are such champs. I got just a glimpse of how hard their job can be. Today, the name of the game was keeping her asleep. I held her for the first time since early March. Granted, I have to hold her whole mattress because all her tubes must stay anchored to something, but she was really comfy. I really enjoyed having her so close. She had a much better day today.
So, the CT scan I mentioned on 4/30 was discussed by a group of doctors. They see what appears to be lung disease, only fixable by a drastic procedure. They plan to do it in about 10 days or so. I felt that God was leading me to bring attention to her heart, though nothing seemed wrong with it to me or anyone else. I thought I could be wrong, but why not try. I asked Dr. Ahmad for a cardiologist to check her out and he said he was already planning to have an ECG study of the heart. Only, because I was asking, he ordered it for the following day and asked this doctor to meet with me. It was done yesterday and revealed a mild abnormality, pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart). I feel the timing was imperative and not by chance. She's had ECGs before and this was not seen. It could come and go if her heart is overworked. I don't know because I'm not a cardiologist, but I'll be meeting with that doctor on Monday after he does a follow up ECG.
We're allowing our families to visit now. She's no less sick and no more strong immune-wise, but with her doctor nudging me we agreed it's time for family to visit. Very exciting.
5/12: I'm really sorry guys. I meant immediate family. She's still not in good enough shape for ALL our family to meet her.
I'll try to update Monday about my chat with the cardiologist. Prayer requests are for the doctors to find the real cause and solution. I hope it does not involve this drastic procedure they're planning to do. Please also pray for our family.