June 2, 2009

Bryce had a very restless night; therefore, Kendra didn't get much sleep either last night. She is staying with him again this evening and when I called she said that he is doing better. What a devoted mother she is! (Some of you may not know that she donated her kidney to Bryce when he was only two years old. A few days after the surgery she got toxic shock and almost died - unfortunately her kidney never did work for Bryce.) We also greatly appreciated the many hours that Jerica and her parents spend sitting with Bryce.

The doctors are very concerned about Bryce because it appears that he may have sepsis again (serious infection in his body). His white blood count quickly rose to 37,000. He had a fever last night, but today we were relieved that his vital signs have been pretty good.

He was quite miserable today, but after they did dialysis this evening he seemed to be doing much better. They were unable to do dialysis yesterday evening because his blood pressure was too low and since they gave him a break on Sunday he was in real need to have it done.

I spent today with Bryce and did my work on my laptop while I was with him in his room. Bryce frequently needed some help and it was my sacred privilege to be able to assist him throughout the day - getting him warm blankets, holding his hand, adjusting his pillows, pulling him up in bed, etc. He was too weak to do much other than lie in his bed today. This evening he did sit in a chair for awhile.

Today I was greatly touched as he said, "Dad, I am afraid." When asked to clarify I found out he was referring to what was going to happen next to him medically. Every poke or procedure seems to be traumatic to him right now. As he was taken down for another CT scan he asked me to pray for him.

Even though Bryce has been moved to the unit outside the ICU we would appreciate it if you would check with us first before coming to visit. He is still not feeling well and continues to be very susceptible to further illness. Thanks for understanding.

Please know of our deep gratitude for the many kindnesses that are shown to us. We so much appreciate the kind emails and other correspondence, brining us delicious meals, providing other service, etc. Today my team from work spent a couple of hours working in our yard - they did a great job! Some anonymous person did a wonderful job mowing and edging our lawn. What a difference it makes to us to know that people truly care, that they love our family, and are praying for our son, Bryce. Most importantly we are so grateful for your faith and prayers for him to get better.

Although Bryce is now a grown man, sitting with him and assisting him has brought back many tender moments to me of when he was so very ill as a young child. Sometimes it is so easy to shed some tears.

Love,

Ken and Kendra