Day 6

Today was an even better day for Clara. She received her last dose of antibiotics and she drank about 30 ml of formula. She slept somewhat better over night and took a great nap this afternoon. ENT continues to say she looks great, and her trach change will be tomorrow. They will have to give her a mild sedative before, just to keep her calm. Hopefully very soon after that we can take her home. I am just amazed how well she has done, and how quickly she bounced back.

Several old NICU nurses and respiratory therapist visited her. Which was so awesome! I can't say enough about her care at UNC Hospital, again. Their PICU is fabulous with top notch nurses. Clara received lots of attention and great care. I do think she is a little bored. Even though we brought toys, books and an IPad not  much you can play in bed for 6 days.

After tomorrow the plan still is to wait 3 weeks to get the stent out. A month later from that point she goes back in for a bronc to see how things are healing. Tonight I actually thought that Clara almost has her own airway. Once the stent is out she will no longer be trach dependant. It all feels so surreal! Go Clara!!

Jason and I are pretty worn out from our 6 days of taking turns there. The hour drive to and from is let alone exhausting. But then again, so glad we are close enough to come and go in a day. We are with Clara 24 hours and then switch 24 at home with Madeline. Sitting in a small room in the ICU can be very tiring. Not sure I was supposed to but today I actually got in the bed with Clara. There we played ;)

I just again thank everyone for the support through texts, emails, messages on Facebook. Thanks to all who brought us dinners each night this week. I looked forward to those on the nights  I was home. I know Jason did as well. Thank you for the cards, words of encouragement and monetary gifts. Thank you to our parents that have helped with Maddie this week, and for the help at the hospital. It made her day to see you. Thank you Bayada for the balloons that brightened her day every time she looked up.

God strategically  puts people in our lives, or even in our paths that take care of us.  I especially feel his love  through the goodness of people. I read somewhere once "if you think you cannot go one more step, know that God is there to carry you" How he did through you.

During the most difficult moments in my life, God has blessed me beyond measure. He is my joy despite the pain. All I can do is praise him. It is true..God will carry you.