6.10.2009

One Month

Sorry...didn't mean to freak you all out. Avery is fine. The closure of her belly went fine. I did not get a chance to post after we left the hospital and we were out doing stuff all day yesterday, so I am just now getting caught up.

The closure took about 45 min. and the surgeons were able to get all the intestine back in her belly. However, they were not able to close the skin completely because her skin is so tightly stretched right now. It may close some on its own but most likely she will need some kind of skin graft later. It's not bad and definitely not high on my list of concerns.

Avery has been with us for a month now and it is so hard to believe! She continues to be stable and respond well to the weening of her blood pressure meds. The heart surgeon was in yesterday and is still not ready to close her chest. She had a fever yesterday so blood was sent off to check for infection. Her pupils were a bit large so they did a head ultrasound this morning to check for bleeds...didn't see any so that's good. Hope to hear back about the possible infection later today...she has not had a fever recently so hopefully we are clear. Our biggest issue right now is keeping her sedated. She seems to be very uncomfortable and in pain and I will tell you, it is the most excruciating thing to watch. I find myself avoiding a hospital visit unless she is totally asleep. It's just too hard to watch. My heart hurts...I just want to hold and comfort her like mommy and daddy should do.

Be thinking of us as we are closing in on the time when our family will be separated. I have been dreading this time. Shane is going to have to get back to work soon and Kaitlyn will be going to Colorado with my mom next week. I will be holding down the fort here in Little Rock so all of you who have offered to come visit should prepare for my calls! It is going to be extremely hard for Shane to leave and be away so please please keep him in your thoughts. The next couple weeks are going t be very difficult on all of us.

Thanks for your continued support of our family and Avery. Words just don't express our gratitude- Carissa

17 comments:

  1. Thanks for the update. We'll be praying for all of you and talking about when I can come visit!

    I'm so sorry Avery is in pain. I'll be praying that docs and nurses can keep the meds just right so that she is comfortable.

    Love to you all.

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  2. I am so relieved to hear that everything is stable for Avery! Thank you for updating! :-)

    I'm sad to hear that Avery is hurting. Hopefully the doctors/nurses will find the right combination of medications to keep her comfortable.

    I will continue to pray for you all, and especially for strength during the time you all are separated.

    Biggest ((( hugs ))) to you all!

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  3. I will be there any time you need/want me...this you know, my friend.

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  4. Carissa, SO SO SO glad to hear everything is stable. My heart both aches & leaps for joy for you. It is terrible to see your kids in pain. Yet, it is amazing to see how far Avery has come in 1 month! We continue to pray for Avery & all of you. God will provide you with the strength you need even when you doubt yourself. Just continue to trust in Him.

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  5. AnonymousJune 10, 2009

    Avery so wants to live. What a story she will tell one day! The miraculous story all of you will tell for the rest of your lives keeps getting more positive every day, and I am so grateful. I pray for Avery's comfort and for her to be free from pain. I pray for all of you in whatever circumstance you need the Lord to bless you. Goldie McGarrah

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  6. The heartbreak of not being able to hold your baby is excruciating. I pray that it will be very soon.

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  7. I pray for you all often!

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  8. AnonymousJune 10, 2009

    The rollarcoaster keeps on moving! Ups and downs. Avery is doing well and hope the fever stays away, that could be of concern. For comfort see if they allow baby tapes the ones newborns like; ie heartbeat; womb sounds ect. We would use these and babies liked them--blocks out beeps ect. It is so hard for her not only does her body hurt, when someone touches her that can be uncomfortable too! The music can help her feel more relaxed! She will know your voice too! Hangin there, she needs your strength. Looking forward to seeing Katlin in Colorado! Bless You and your family. Kathy Rae

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  9. Lizz just assumes she'll be the one to visit :) Katie asked me tonight if she could have a sleepover with KK when she was 8. Then she said that Graham and Evvie would have to sleep in Avery's room. I'm glad the surgery went well.
    Tony

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  10. That is amazing that everything is ok with Avery...I cannot believe this story and just how wonderful it is to be able to follow.

    I am so sorry your family will be seperated, that is awful and I will pray for you and your family in this time of need. Take care and keep us posted on precious Avery.

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  11. AnonymousJune 10, 2009

    Lizzie's mom is staying in touch and sending prayers your way every day. Big Hugs to all of you. xo's

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  12. You are my prayers. I hope you are able to hold your little princess warrior soon. Thanks for the update

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  13. Hello, So glad to hear things are as good as they are. I check everyday on Avery. My thoughts and Prayers are with you guys. I loved the 3 week birthday. Celebrate each little victory. Avery is a fighter. God Bless you all. With love

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  14. AnonymousJune 11, 2009

    Heinrichs:

    We are all thinking and praying for you often! I am glad that things are starting to look a bit more hopeful, but realize that in the future, thinks still look a bit rough. You will always have our support and love...

    ~The Heinrich family

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  15. Your family will be in my prayers in the weeks to come. Continue fighting Avery and getting stronger with each passing day!!

    Much love,
    Tracy

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  16. AnonymousJune 11, 2009

    Carissa and Shane, Avery has come so far in such little time. I will be away over the 4th, but I can come before or after to help you. Just let me know. The Stewart family is praying and with you. You, Shane and Carrisa are so special. Love, Betty Lou

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  17. AnonymousJune 12, 2009

    Hey Keirsey Family - You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers and we would love to do something for you all. Please send us an email at audralm1@yahoo.com with any requests (even if it is for some sweet treats). Much love and many prayers. Jon & Audra Tunnell - Plano, TX

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