This morning they gave him a blood transfusion to improve his stats and he responded extremely well! His blood saturations immediately increased, which gave them confidence to then proceed with some more "de-tubing". They removed his last chest drainage tube and removed an additional IV entry. He was taken off his last heart medication and all pain meds (outside of Tylenol) were eliminated. Additionally, he was allowed to start feeding again and has since increased his milk intake by 5-10 MLs every feed. Given his good response to feeding, this evening they lowered his TPN and lipids (nutrition via IV) to minimal levels. Outside of a little stomach gas (must be genetically passed down from his Uncle Larse), he is steadily improving!
Jon started back to work today and was anxious to get back in somewhat of a routine. His co-workers welcomed him with a rather impressive showing of "facial scruff"...the Hair for Hudson movement is gaining momentum! We are unsure how long of a timetable it will be for the recovery period within the hospital. For the interim future, Jon will be taking night duty at the hospital before heading to work.
We have come to realize how much Hudson looks like his siblings. We often hear that when he is awake, he looks like Harlowe...when he sleeps, he looks like Oliver. Ashley found the below picture today which compares Harlowe and Hudson's baby pictures. Crazy!
Special thanks to nurses Stephanie, Lindsey and Suzie for their care during some irritable times for the little guy! He tested their patience and none of them flinched...quite impressive!