Sunday, July 12, 2009

Update

They did a procedure on Kameron today where they hooked him up to a machine that took all his blood out (not at all at once, obviously) and it seperated the blood from the plasma. Then it disposed of Kameron's plasma and filtered in new, fresh, donated plasma. Then, when that part was all finished they put all his red blood cells back into his body. It took a total of 2 hours to do it! It was an interesting process though. And all of Kameron's old plasma was almost brown. Good, healthy plasma is a yellow-gold color. So, his was not healthy at all!! They said his blood has too many antibodies, which is one reason he is so sick. So, they will do this process 4 more times (1 time a day) and that will help him feel better. Even today, after the procedure, Kameron looked a little more alert and energized. I am hopeful this will get him well QUICK! :D

Today they also put in a central line. They will start feeding him from that so that he can get all the nutrients he needs. Today Kameron was having some stomach pains that seemed to be pretty awful. Nurse Natalie (whom I LOVE! She's awesome) said it's probably just from him drinking an ensure and not being mobile to be able to digest it. Also, a couple things were passed around about pancreatitis and his thyroiditis. So, we'll see where we go with those. His kidneys still aren't working the way they should. The good news is they aren't getting WORSE - they just aren't getting any better.

We also spoke with a new rheumatologist today, Dr. Howe. She seemed very knowledgeable and seemed to really do a thorough history on Kameron. We are hoping to get a second opinion from here re: Kameron's current lupus regimen.

That's the news for now! We definately aren't out of the clear yet but we are certainly on the road to recovery ... slowly but surely!! I am very happy with the care Kameron is getting at TMC. He has a great team of doctor's and all of the nurses have been awesome.

Again, thank you all for your prayers!! I know Kameron appreciates it and I definately do!!

5 comments:

Olivia* said...

I am so glad to hear that things are not getting worse. It does sound weird to say it but it is a great sign. I'm also so glad that you have an great staff working with you and Kameron, that makes all the difference. We will continue to keep your family in our prayers!!

Holly Steffen said...

that sounds like pretty great news. you guys are always in my thoughts...

Unknown said...

We're keeping you guys in our thoughts and prayers. Best wishes. Kim and Sue

Terry and Heather said...

I'm glad he is feeling better! Your in our thoughts and prayers/

Kara said...

The plasma treatment sounds pretty crazy, but I'm so glad it's helping. Hopefully his recovery will be quicker now!

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