I got an iPhone this week. Does it make my life complete? No, but it might make me cooler than you (unless you bought the 16gig model). It’s a pretty nifty gizmo and Wilson kept himself and me entertained for most of the trip down from SB today as he tracked our progress by GPS and downloaded various applications. The most remarkable had to be the virtual whoopee cushion which has limitless permutations making for hours of fun. Turns out the whoopee cushion has universal appeal as Wilson has wowed just about every staff member who’s come in to see Rudy–regardless of how many degrees they have. I think it’s some welcome comic relief as there’s an intense vibe here tonight–a full unit wtih lots of very sick kids.
We were encouraged to see Rudy and to hear a good report from Dr. Rick about his condition. He’s very alert for long stretches as he’s only getting small doses of methadone twice a day. Everyone has had a chance to evaluate the CT scan and subsequent Xrays and Rudy’s chest looks very clear. Based on that, feeds to Rudy’s tummy were started yesterday. He keeps holding his ground on the vent and is making slow progress (it’s currently at 14bpm; pressure support of 11). Both Wilson and I got chances to hold him, but mine featured a nice soaking of Rudy vomit during one of his percussive respiratory treatments. The team took him off feeds for a bit, but then surmised that it was more along the lines of what babies do when they get shaken with a full tummy. So, I lay claim to a first in Rudy’s life–the first parent to get spit up on!!!!
Dr. Brian stopped by this evening and confirmed Dr. Rick’s report. Everyone is very positive about where Rudy is–he is stable and holding good ground. Hopefully the changes to his nutrition will push him over the final hump to get off the vent–he’s so close.
I think he’s really glad to have his biggest brother here. Wilson has been great holding him, talking to him and reading to him. I’m glad Wilson came with me. He’s good company, just as long as I get my share of turns with the whoopee cushion.