ER - May 4th

8:14 pm (Paul)
Pray for Jax. Back in hospital tonight. Looked like dehydration, and may only be that. However, there are a number of signs of a number of things which could lead to other more serious complications (possible surgeries, but likely not). We will update when we know more ... please continue to pray.

9:10 pm (Rachel)
Jax has stabilized and blood work shows he is responding well to fluids. He will be admitted for at least 48 hours for close observation to ensure the improvement continues. Dehydration sets off a host of other complications, considering his disease and the course of treatment. Some major concerns have been eliminated, some are still being watched. Also waiting a few days for blood culture for any signs of infection. This was a scary evening as it was our first "hiccup" but we are breathing easier now.

10:35 pm (Paul)
Jaxon's levels are getting better with the IV liquids and meds. The Dr's are still not exactly sure, but it looks like dehydration was likely the cause. Jax and Rach will be in hospital for at least 48 hrs which will be enough time to get all his results back to make sure there isn't anything more serious. 

Pretty funny story: The Dr's wanted a urine sample so we asked Jax if he could pee for us. Head shake, no. I told him a very gentle version of what a catheter was and he agreed to try peeing on his own. The nurse got a little cup ... we asked for something bigger. She wasn't too concerned. Three cups later ... we had warned her.

Jaxon's very low sodium levels have crept back up satisfactorily. His hemoglobins have reduced as they were concentrated because of low hydration, so that's good. The ECG was good and the neurological test seems good as well. Pancreas isn't totally off the list, but likely won't be an issue. 

So, you can see that a little water (well, the recommended consumption anyways) can go a long way! We have not been forcing him to drink, but strongly encouraging it. Because of his lethargic response and complaining of nausea we haven't felt it necessary to push it and then have him throw it up, and make him more dehydrated. So, we're all learning what the right balance needs to be in all this. Seems like being proactive rather than reactive is the key here.

Please pray for wisdom and insight for Rach and I as our new normal doesn't seem to be consistently normal at all right now. Looking forward to 6-7 months down the road when the norm should be fairly consistent. We appreciate your patience as we attempt to relay correct information which seems to change regularly for us at this stage in the game.