I will say this with the utmost conviction: Today has been a good day.
This morning Gavin was switched over once again from the conventional ventilator to CPAP settings. This means that he is still intubated but breathing on his own with the help of pressurized oxygen. This is similar to the support people with sleep apnea need. This is a huge step in the right direction, and our support team here are thrilled.
Of course, there remains the mystery of what is actually going on in Gavin’s lungs. We know that there is some sort of bleeding happening deep in the lungs. Last night the staff doctor ran a bronchoscope in again to have a look, and discovered nothing. Today all the teams met to discuss Gavin’s case, and to our great relief came to the conclusion that Entanercept is no longer in consideration. We were justifiably frightened about loading his system with an immune-suppressant when his own immune system is such a fledgling. Of course, we are being told that this might still be an option, but we are not considering it. We are instead choosing to focus on Gavin’s healing and his innate ability to get better.
My mental shift today has made me almost cheerful. I feel so certain of Gavin and know that he has rounded the corner.
Gavin is still heavily supported, and there is still the issue of bleeding in his lungs. The team made the wise decision to prop up his weakened immune system with twice daily platelet transfusions. I feel that this more than anything can kickstart his body into recovery mode and stop the bleeding once and for all.
The doctors put in a special request with blood services for Gavin to have these platelets. Under normal circumstances, they would not appreciate so many going to just one patient, when there are chronic shortages for all blood products. I, as a life-long wimp, have never once given blood. I have cited squeamishness and slight anemia as my reasons not to. Now I know the power of this gift. It is truly the gift of life.
Very soon, within the next couple of days, I plan on becoming a blood donor for the first time. In recognition of the many dozens of transfusions Gavin has received from these selfless strangers, I am also asking all of you to think about doing the same. You will never meet the person that your blood goes to, and will never know the impact it makes on them. Perhaps it will be a child with cancer, like Gavin, perhaps a young woman in childbirth, perhaps a grandfather in a horrible car accident. No matter what the circumstances, you can know that it means the difference between life and death.
Okay, Canadian Blood Services, I’ve done my bit for you today.
Gavin is sleeping peacefully, it will be a quiet night.
Happy happy happy! How wonderful to have a good day after so many terribly tough ones. Gavin HAS rounded a corner. And how amazing to be administering treatment that will bolster his immune system rather than suppress it! I couldn’t be happier climbing into bed with this good news. I hope you and Craig rest well in the knowledge that things will continuously begin to brighten as Gavin heals and regains his strength. Enjoy this feeling as much as you can, you have good reason to be cheerful. All our love, T,J +E
Awesome news!!! Good on you Gavinator!
Whoohoo! We are so happy and relieved. I promise to donate blood. Phil can stand by in case my stupid brain switches the light off again. Might even consider turning catholic for St Jude! Gavin has shown that he has the strength to get through this. Love Amy xoxo
I am so happy to read the latest post. Although we have never met, I read you blog daily, and pray along with everyone else. Sending good healing vibes from Nova Scotia and knowing Gavin with be running around again soon! P.S. I gave blood a few weeks ago for the first time in years…I will defnately make it a more regular gift now that you have reminded us of the importance!
Amy(Karena’s friend)
YES! this is what we love to hear! Go Gavin go! You are so strong. And what a wise boy you are for choosing such incredible parents. Much love.
I’m really glad to hear that Gavin is improving. I’ve got family and friends all praying for him.
crying huge tears of happiness. rene is going to give blood today or tomorrow! keep strong sweeties
Very super extremely so so happy to read this and I’m redoubling my efforts to send good vibes Gavin’s way to keep this healing momentum. Everything you’ve done for him is so amazing, you should be proud to be a most amazing mama.
I’m terrified and not sure they’ll want my blood but am going to make it to donate before Christmas – and maybe start gently pestering friends and relatives to do the same!
Keep up the good work Team Gavinator!
Sxoxo.
We are so happy to hear this news this morning, Erica!! I’ve given blood many times, but now I can’t b/c of medication. I’ll tell all my family and friends to give, though! It takes so little, but means so much. Yay for the Gavinator! XOXOXO
I talked to your mom last night and was so pleased to hear how he’s doing. that healing circle is still in Gavin’s room…invisible, but they’re there! Your point about giving blood is well-taken. i used to be a regular but got lazy…won’t be lazy any more. Love you,
Thank God Erica, there are Angels all Around – I’m so very very happy for all of you, one baby step at a time. I too, have not given blood for a while and I WILL!
I love you all so much!
Auntie Mel
Such great news Erica!!!!
I am thrilled. Thanks for the little bit about blood donation, you are absolutely right. I think I am going to give it a try.
It has been so hard to read this story about Gavin, I choke up everytime there has been a setback…..but this little boy is such a fighter it is just unbelievable.
Keep fighting Gavinator, we are all rooting for you.
This is wonderful news!!! Yipppeee, Go Gavin Go!!! 🙂 :). He will be playing and getting in to glue again before you know it! May the positive days continue in to many consecutive ones!
BEST NEWS EVER!!!! sitting here at my desk wiping away tears of relief and joy…Go Gavn! Go! You are on the mend my dear boy. Relish in this good news Erica & Craig…use each little bit of positivity to renew your belief in all things good & hopefull…it’s the only way to be!
love & huge (((HUGS)))
Erin
xxoo
This is SO great to hear, stay positive, your energy is being directed to little Gavin!! Gavin, you’re a fighter, show mommy you can do it! : D
xoxo
yes, gavin!
erica, your renewed positivity will grow exponentially around the world. with the way we are all interconnected how could it not?
and consider me a new blood donor now, too!
lots of love…
Very happy to hear this news – I think of you all constantly. Gave blood before but was quite weak after – will try again. I didn’t know it had to be rationed like that, and I am grateful too to the donors who have helped Gavin.
SO happy to hear this wonderful news of Gavin’s progress. I WILL be giving blood next time they are in our town, for Gavin!
Joy! thank you – blood donations a must from now on…
Best news ever. Big hugs to you and Gavin and thank you for the reminder of the precious gift we can give.
Mmmmmmmmmm:)