First let me start by saying that every time we try a new treatment (continuous nebulizer, BiPAP mask, high flow cannula, ventilator, and high frequency ventilator), Natalie has a honeymoon period. She does really well for a little while, and then slowly starts to fail, until a big event happens and she really fails. Today's test with the high frequency ventilator was no different. She was going into respiratory failure when she was switched over to it, and she responded quickly! We felt like this is what she really needed, and it was going to do the trick. Over the course of the day, though, she started to require more and more oxygen to maintain her sats.
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| Natalie hooked up to the high frequency ventilator |
So, once again tonight, she started to really fail and I was losing hope. Then, at the last minute, her doctor decided to turn her on her belly to help take some pressure off of areas of the lungs that weren't opening up. She responded IMMEDIATELY. It was like she was waiting all along to get off of her back.
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| Natalie was turned on her belly, which was instant relief! |
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| So peaceful |
Since then, she's slowly been moving down on her oxygen. She started out at 9:00 p.m. at 95% on her oxygen. It's now about 1 a.m., and she's backed off to 74% oxygen, and she's maintaining it well.
Since being on the high frequency ventilator, she's been artificially paralyzed by medicine. They want to make sure she's not moving at all, and not awake for any of this, so she has a myriad of drugs to help her keep absolutely calm. She'll be flipped over every 12 hours now to help take any pressure off of her lungs that may be causing this respiratory failure. Hopefully she only needs one more flip, but I'll be okay with anything, as long as it means my little princess is improving.
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| Sleeping peacefully with her puppy right now |
I'm hoping this isn't another honeymoon for Natalie, but the way she responded says to me that maybe it isn't. (DON'T WORRY - I'M KNOCKING ON WOOD). Are we all lifting her up with our prayers? Is this God's plan for her? I don't know the answer to that, but I do know that you are lifting us up with your prayers. I've been reading every single response to Natalie, and it's comforting to hear from all of you. Your prayers and your thoughts are appreciated.
It was another long day, and it'll be a long night ahead of staring at monitors and hoping that we keep trending in the right direction.
25 comments:
Praying hard for beautiful Natalie. Big Hugs to you ~ Perry and Melissa!! Mitzi and Jaycin
Keep trusting in God for your strength. He is with you. Praying for your family thru this time.
My heart goes out to you all. The power of prayer is amazing, as you know. Natalie not only has the Lord by her side, but an incredible family to see her through this. She is one tough little cookie, no doubt about it! God's Blessings! Alysia
Michaela and I are praying for your family. We hope that this roller coaster only goes up from here and that God will heal all. We are thinking about you constantly. God, please bless this family.
Thoughts and prayers for all of you during this difficult time.
Lifting your whole family in pray. God's blessing and healing for Natalie!!! Trust in GOD at all times!!! Jon and LeAnn Peterson family (Cousin Jillian's God parents)
Continued prayers for Natalie and also for you all..it's so hard to watch your child struggle.
Thinking about and praying for beautiful Natalie and her wonderful family! Shan Haarsager
Sending prayers of comfort, peace & healing to all the family. I've never met Natalie, but from the love of others for her I feel like I do. What a precious gift from God. May His healing hands heal her body <3
Positive, healing energy & prayers for your precious girl, and for you.
We will be keeping Natalie & the whole family in our prayers.
Prayers for you family. My son was in the NICU at Sanford Children's for 15 days at birth, and I know without their impeccable and unmatchable care and many prayers, he would not be with us today. You are in the best hands possible. Stay strong!
Praying for sweet, beautiful Natalie and the entire family. Sending many, many healing prayers!!
Terry & Laura Savelkoul & family
Praying for you guys! Saw this post on Facebook - I don't know you guys personally, but I grew up with Perry's sister. As a parent I can't imagine what you guys are going through, but there are countless people praying for you guys, my family included!
I'll be praying for Natalie and for the family!!!
Do not fear what may happen to you tomorrow. The same Father who cares for you today, will care for you tomorrow and every other day. Either he will shield you from suffering or He will give you the unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginings.
St. Francis de Sales
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Keep the faith.
Prayers for your family. May God put his arms around you and make you feel his love.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hoping the best for Natalie.
Dale and Cindy Ludwig
Praying for all of you as continue your journey - God's blessings~~
"I will hold you always in the palm of my hand." Isaiah 41:13
The family's (Bernsdorfs and Nohrs) thoughts and prayers are with you all, and especially Natalie during this trying time. What a strong, enduring spirit this little "angel on earth" possesses! God is good - keep the faith!
We miss seeing her at school. Prayers to you miss Natalie.
Natalie's "old" NICU nurses in Minot are praying for you all ! We know how tough that little girl is !!!!!
Sending prayers for one incredibly brave little fighter and her courageous family. I have a special place in my heart for all of you ... One can only imagine the magnitude of God's love for you.
Happy 8th Birthday Allison. I am sure you are spending it surrounded by people who love you!
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