"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous; do not be terrified, do not be discouraged: for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
Ok, those who have been here for a while have probably heard several episodes of the Mooselet Saga. When last we heard from our hero, his kidneys and urinary tract were doing fine, as were his feet. Last time we saw the urologist, he said the tests looked great, and we were gonna follow up with another test in three months (this was three months ago). The orthopedist said his feet were looking good, and that he only needed to wear the leg braces when he slept at night instead of all day, and we'd have a follow-up visit in six months (this was six months ago).
We meet with both the urologist and the orthopedist next week. We're going in relatively blind with the orthopedist -- no tests done, all we have are his feet to look at. Well, they look great. He's running and jumping and the feet look pretty straight. No worries on that front, right?
Not so much with the other. It was suggested that the possible reason for his recurring UTIs every time he went off antibiotics was because he wasn't circumcised, so he had that done a while ago (unpleasant, but we've moved past it). He was to remain on antibiotics until we saw his urologist again, so we haven't yet seen whether or not another UTI may happen.
We got the test results back today from his latest ultrasound, though. The fun excerpts:
quote:Review of the films demonstrates now dilation of the renal collecting system on the right side.
The right kidney now shows an element of hydronephrosis. Previously the renal pelvis was dilated, now the renal collecting system shows mild dilation.
Summary: Interval development of mild to moderate right hydronephrosis in comparison with 2/6/03.
So from a layman's reading of this thing, it's back. We'll know more when we see the doctor next week.
But I gotta say -- it's getting really difficult not to be discouraged. Terrified we've already done, long ago, and hopefully we don't need to return to that stage. In the grand overarching universal scheme of things, we're ok -- we honestly do trust that all will work out. But in the day-to-day on-my-mind dealing with things realm, this is really tough, especially when we're also dealing with the normal stresses that go along with a new baby (entirely healthy so far, thankfully) in the house.
So anyway, there's your update -- that's where we are. As usual, prayers are always welcome.
--Pop
[Edit -- Thread Subject.]
[ April 29, 2004, 05:59 PM: Message edited by: Papa Moose ]
Posted by Zotto! (Member # 4689) on :
And quite gladly given.
Thanks for the update, Papa. Hope Mooselet gets better sooner rather than later.
(((Mooselet and Family)))
Posted by Miro (Member # 1178) on :
Lotsa hugs for Mooselet.
I can't say I understand what you're going through, but I wish you all the best.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Prayers and e-hugs.
Posted by Toretha (Member # 2233) on :
prayers coming yalls way
Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
Hang in there Moose. I know that you and your little family will be taken care of. I know everyone says it, but if it makes any difference, you 4 are in my prayers.
(((Mooses)))
Posted by MaydayDesiax (Member # 5012) on :
((((Mooselet)))) Lots of hugs for the little one, get better real soon!
((Mooses))
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
:: hugs :: You'll be in my thoughts, as always.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
*giant hug for all the Meese* And here I was surfing Hatrack, being all pissed that they are digging a giant hole in the middle of the road right next to our house in the middle of the night, interfering with my much-needed beauty sleep - this kinda puts my unhappiness and annoyance to shame. I'm so sorry to hear that little Carl is facing more uncertain problems. I can't imagine what you and Squirrel must be going through. I'll be praying for all of you. Please continue to keep all of us updated on how things go. John 14:8
[ December 06, 2003, 02:41 AM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by LadyDove (Member # 3000) on :
I'm so sorry. I can't willingly imagine the degree of fear, frustration and sadness you guys are going through. Carl is so precious, it just seems so... mean that he has had to spend so much time in the hospital.
Even though it may seem like you guys are just too worn out to be able to face this new hurdle, you will. And you'll come through in your usual graceful style.
I've often told you how your and Connie's courage impress and inspire me. Thank you for that.
Of course you have my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if I can do anything to help.
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
*hugs*
Posted by BobbyK (Member # 5970) on :
My Thoughts and Best Wishes to you and your family. ((((((((dangermoooooose)))))))))
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
I don't know you (well, IRL "know" you), but I love you Meeses. I have to believe that everything will turn out okay. I send you my strength and good wishes. I also pray. And hug. Lots of hugs.
(((meeses)))
I loves you Meeses to pieces!
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
I will be thinking about you.
Don't lose the hope. ((Moose family))
[ December 06, 2003, 08:57 AM: Message edited by: Kama ]
Posted by Frisco (Member # 3765) on :
Tell Mooselet to get better so I can come down and begin training him to become a world-class air hockey player.
Stay positive, Meese.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
*Hugs to the Moose family* He's a brave little Mooselet.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
(((Mooselet))) I'll be praying for ya'll.
Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
*hugs*
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
((mooselet))
I hope all this trouble ends sometime soon.
In the meantime, he and you are in my prayers.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Thank you all for the prayers, e-hugs, well-wishes, both here and via e-mail. It's good to have a place we can go both to spill our problems and to receive support right here in the house. Hatrack rocks because of its members, not just its owners.
--Pop
Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
Pop, is it possible for you to network with other parents going through similar adventures? I can commiserate to a degree, what with Rayne's hip issues. I found real help when I discovered a discussion group on yahoo that is made up exclusively of parents of kids with hip dysplasia. It has helped *enormously*, not only for support, but also for hearing other people's stories that in a lot of cases are far worse than ours. And some that are better and have good news to share. So I can see "it could be worse" and "it's going to get better" all at the same time.
Even so, I think that being discouraged for a little while is okay. Having permission to be upset and discouraged is another part of what I got from this yahoo group....because I think some people (we got some "support" like this) think that we should just be grateful it isn't something lifethreatening. You feel what you feel, and sure while it's not life threatening, it is still stressful, and you still wish it wasn't happening.
I'm praying for you and Mama, Mooselet and Superstation. That this gets figured out swiftly, and resolved even faster. Big online hugs!
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Mooselet is such a great kid. I saw personally how well he runs & jumps, etc. No problems there for sure! I'll add my prayers to the mix. Tell Mooselet I said hi!
jeniwren... that networking idea is a good one, I think. It might help to know what you're in for from a parent's perspective.
Posted by ana kata (Member # 5666) on :
Best of luck, prayers and wishes. Get better soon, little Mooselet! We all love you! Our hatrack mascot!
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
To be honest, every time I've looked in on other parents going through the same thing (at other on-line forums), it either seems to be a battle over whose kid has it the worst, or lots of people talking and nobody listening, or at least nobody really responding or seeming to care. That's undoubtedly a horrendous unfair snap judgement based on only a few places, I realize -- but I've never felt the need to have someone who has gone through the same exact thing to talk to. It's not the specifics -- it's the underlying helplessness and frustration, and there are plenty of people here in my on-line family who've felt that under different circumstances. That's enough for me. It's more helpful, actually, because my mind gets occupied by considering the relation between unlike things.
That said, thank you for the suggestions. I always know places I can go if I want to hear about people who have it worse. Sadly, just thinking about our hosts' experiences can plenty take care of it. Superstation's middle name, in fact, is in honor of their departed son. Never would we claim our troubles are the worst at Hatrack.
But as I'm sure is the case with the Cards, the joy in our children has always outweighed the heartache, and we wouldn't choose for even the briefest moment to trade places with anyone. Again, thank you all, and keep those cards and letters coming....
--Pop
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
*hugs* Meeses
AJ
Posted by sndrake (Member # 4941) on :
Pop,
I'm kinda new here so I missed the beginning of the struggles you're going through with Mooselet's health issues.
I've never been a parent, and at my age (and the age of Diane), it's a sure bet that's one experience I'll have missed in life.
Hoping that it might be helpful, I thought I'd let you know that both Diane and myself had health/disability issues as kids that put our own two sets of parents in much of the same state of helplessness and uncertainty.
For the first few years of my life, my parents weren't really sure if I'd get to live very long. My partner, Diane, was misdiagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (she has a different, nonfatal condition) and her parents believed for many years she wouldn't live past her teen years.
Regardless of the prognosis, we both went through a lot of scary medical stuff as children. Lots of hospital visits, surgeries, etc.
For what it's worth, there's some commonality we've found in our childhoods:
We both remember our childhoods as happy ones.
The medical stuff - even the pain - was ultimately much harder on our parents than it was on us as individuals. Although children are as variable as the adults we grow into are, we do tend to be more adaptable and accepting of these things than when they happen to us as adults. (and of course, it's easier when it's us it's happening to than a parent.)
Everything I've seen from you indicates you and Squirrel can navigate this with grace and strength. I apologize for the rambling nature of this particular post. It's meant to be supportive - I hope it is in some way.
[ December 06, 2003, 04:36 PM: Message edited by: sndrake ]
Posted by The Rabbit (Member # 671) on :
Arrrggg!! My prayers will be with you and Mooslet.
Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
((((((((((Moose family))))))))))
Posted by Dead_Horse (Member # 3027) on :
((((Moose Family)))) My prayers are with you.
Rain
Posted by larisse (Member # 2221) on :
*Hugs* to the Moose and Squirrel family
*Hugs* to Mooselet, who I am sure is doing a fabulous job as an older brother right now.
*Hugs* to two great parents, who have as much strength and grace as they do love.
*Hugs* to the newest little member just because.
Posted by Ela (Member # 1365) on :
Hope everything works out for the best for the little Mooselet.
Our family's prayers and hugs are with you.
**Ela**
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
(((((all the Meese)))))
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I am so sorry to hear your discouraging news. Y'all are in my thoughts and in my prayers.
Posted by Dragon (Member # 3670) on :
((((((((Papa Moose, Mama Squirrel, Mooset and Superstation))))))))
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Moose, Squirrel, and little'uns, you'll be in my prayers.
*sad for you
(he's already been through ureteral reimplantation, correct?)
[ December 07, 2003, 11:47 AM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by Wendybird (Member # 84) on :
I will pray for your family. I know discouragement and frustration. Hang in there and let God carry some of that burden for you.
(((hugs)))
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
CT, I'm not sure what ureteral reimplantation is, for sure. As far as I understand, they never disconnected the ureter. He had the vesicostomy, and the blockage from the posterior urethral valves was complete, so everything came out his sub-bellybutton. A year later they resected the valves and closed the vesicostomy. So it seems similar in effect to what a ureteral reimplantation sounds like to me, except that they never had to disconnect and reconnect the ureter.
Just because we didn't already have enough to worry about, he had some blood in his stool today, too. We called the clinic that's open on weekends, and they said to watch for the next one and see if there's blood again, and if so to call back, but he didn't have another dirty diaper today. Either way, we're calling the pediatrician tomorrow. Personally I think Mama's dealing with things much better than I am (I don't think she cried at all today, versus the three times I did), but neither of us is exactly cheery. Adding to this that we went to a wake this afternoon and will be attending a funeral tomorrow morning, this just hasn't been a really good time for us.
Good thing we have Hatrack....
--Pop
Posted by Ralphie (Member # 1565) on :
Oh, man.
You're Super Pop, and Squirrel is Super Mom. You guys will be fine, because you're awesome, but in the meantime know that I'm thinking about your whole family.
Poor little Carl. Give him a squeeze for me.
[ December 08, 2003, 01:09 AM: Message edited by: Ralphie ]
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Crying is a healthy release. 'Leastways, that's what I always tell myself.
*many hugs and many prayers*
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
((((((((((((((Papa Moose))))))))))))))
I'll be praying for you.
Hobbes Posted by Sopwith (Member # 4640) on :
(((the whole herd of moose)))
Take care, all of you.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Pop, that is discouraging. You and your family are in my prayers.
I know what you mean about Hatrack being a good place to for company. It doesn't matter that anyone's going through the exact same thing (although many have) - this is just a good place for love and support when you need it, and a good place to extend love and support when you're able to give it. You give out so much love and support here, it's an absolute honor to included in some of the trials. I apologize if that sounded awkward; I mean, I'm so glad the Meese are here.
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
Pop, I hate that Mooslet, you, and Squirrel are having to go through this. I'll definitely be thinking of you.
sndrake, if I were in Pop's position, your message would have been exactly what I needed to hear. It didn't seem rambling at all, for what it's worth.
Posted by Ela (Member # 1365) on :
Lots of hugs for the Moose and Squirrel family.
Posted by MyrddinFyre (Member # 2576) on :
(((Moose family)))
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
(hugs for the whole family)
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Papa, I will track down information for you. It might be the definitive procedure to which you are heading.
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
Oh man... I'm really sorry to hear this, Pop. All my best to you, Connie, Carl, and Timothy. You're all in my thoughts.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Poor Mooselet and for you and Mama Squirrel.
I hope everything turns out alright - if the amount of well wishing from hatrackers all over has anything to do with it, I'm sure it will.
My best wishes.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
To the hospital to hear from the doc. Updates later today, most likely.
CT, I'd still like to hear what you have regarding ureteral reimplantation, even though if it is the likely procedure we may hear about it today from the urologist. Thanks.
--Pop
Posted by asQmh (Member # 4590) on :
My church has been praying for you. Well, generically (descriptive rather than by name), since it's kinda odd to say "Can you pray for Papa Moose, Mama Squirrel and the mooselings?"
Take care.
Q.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Ok. I'll back up just a bit.
Sunday Mooselet had the blood in his stool. Well, he pooped on Monday (at the funeral, which is a little poetic in a very strange way), and no blood, so that's good. I wanted to see a second one with no blood before I got too relieved, lest one be a fluke. Three days later we're still waiting for the next one. When it does arrive, I'm guessing Mooselet ain't gonna be happy -- he already isn't, but he's had lots of juice today and a suppository, so hopefully we'll see something soon. Still not comfortable on that topic.
Monday was the meeting with the orthopedist. According to him, Mooselet looks great. His feet aren't perfect -- the talus still doesn't point exactly where one might hope, but it's well within a fairly normal range. For the time being, no more braces. He'll go see the doc again in six months, or earlier if things start to regress again (that won't be necessary, right? Right?).
Then there was this morning. I'll spare you all the details of our travel, and just start when the doc entered the room. He took out the ultrasound films and set the report aside -- he said he prefers to see the films first, so he doesn't go in biased. He noted the same things that the report stated, except he used the term "mild" hydronephrosis -- not mild to moderate. Moderate was never used. I felt kinda good about that.
He also said there's a reasonable chance that it doesn't mean anything. If the bladder was full, it could be entirely normal. If the bladder was empty, it still might be fine, but possibly not. But since the ultrasound was of the kidneys only, we don't know. So Mooselet gets another test -- an IVP.
Mama read up on this, though I'd appreciate hearing it in layman's terms from our local expert whenever she might have the time. The doc did say that he hadn't ordered the test before because of its unpleasantness, as well as the possibility that it wouldn't be necessary. Well, since he has requested tests in the past that were already quite unpleasant, that concerned us a bit.
Essentially they inject Mooselet with a dye, then take x-rays at various intervals over an hour or so, during which time he needs to remain still and unclothed on a cold x-ray table (and he already hates those for short periods of time). This really doesn't sound like something he's gonna like. However, it is still relatively non-invasive, so I'm sure things could be worse.
I tried to pry more info out of the doc regarding possible courses of action, but he wouldn't give me much -- he's still hoping it's a harmless issue. But he said that if the results of the IVP show more blockage, he might need to go back in and remove some more tissue. There was still no mention of ureteral reimplantation, though, at least not in those terms.
So we're still in a holding pattern. *sigh* Anyway, thank you again for letting me spill my problems here, and also for the continued prayers and thoughts. They don't need to stop or anything.
--Pop
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
(((PapaMoose, MamaSquirrel, & Mooselet)))
I'll just keep praying for good news that everything is over and he doesn't need any more treatments.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
*hugs the Meese* Goodness Pop, that's a lot. Give Mooselet a kiss for me.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
It sounds like this was all pretty good news. Its so hard not to be worried, though. Hang in there Moose family!
*prays the dye test will also bring good news if Mooselet must have it*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*sends lots of good vibes and prayers*
(((((all the Meese)))))
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
quote:Anyway, thank you again for letting me spill my problems here, and also for the continued prayers and thoughts. They don't need to stop or anything.
And they won't. (((Mooses)))
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Papa, my mother had an IVP this past winter. It wasn't bad at all. They did give her a sedative beforehand, though. I don't know if that is an option for Mooselet, but it helped my mother to relax and keep still. They let her wear a gown, though.
One thing - insist on having an experienced nurse or tech inject the dye. The first one who tried to inject my mother couldn't get it with 3 tries. The doctor walked in to see what the holdup was and did the injecting himself.
Y'all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by Lime (Member # 1707) on :
quote:They don't need to stop or anything.
Certainly not.
(((The Mooses)))
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
quote: They don't need to stop or anything.
Okay if we break for lunch?
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
If you say grace, sure.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Um, Bob, do you always have difficulty thinking while eating?
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
I know when Bob was here, I had difficulty thinking while he was eating.
Oh, a little P.S. for the last update -- two good poops today, and he'll be remaining on antibiotics at least until the doc sees the results of the next test.
--Pop
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
That must be a relief to all of you -- especially Mooselet!
Posted by larisse (Member # 2221) on :
Yay for Mooselet. He such a little trooper... um... you know. Anyways, I hope that means he's doing better. Papa Moose, I don't know you or your wonderful wife very well, but you are both in my thoughts. I can't imagine what you both are going through, but I know where you both gain strength from... each other. All I can say is keep on going.
*Hugs* to the Moose Family
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Eating is a loud and dangerous business demanding complete concentration. I'm surprised everyone here doesn't know that by now. Who raised you people anyway?
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
( at Bob)
Papa Moose, I'm so sorry for leaving you hanging. I've been dealing with a few "non-accidental trauma" (read: "child abuse") cases, and it soured me temporarily on my profession. ___________________________________________
Basically, hydronephrosis (or, "dilation of the kidneys") is secondary to reflux through the ureters.** The ureters are tubes that run from the kidneys to the bladder, and ideally they let all the urine into the bladder without permitting significant backflow. Unfortunately, sometimes they are faulty and permit pressure to go back up into the kidney, which sort of stretches, compresses, and damages the tissue, to any of a range of degrees.
Posterior urethral valves are remnants of tissue (the embryonic male equivalent of the hymen) which impede flow of urine into the bladder, thus causing pressure to build up behind them. These are relatively simple to remove, and they may be the tissue he referred to for possible removal. A PUV is located at the entrance of the ureter into the bladder -- it's like a one-way valve that is directed the wrong way.
Alternatively, there is sometimes a condition of hydroureter (or, "dilation of the ureter tube(s)") that is secondary to blockage of urine flow by a kidney stone, or due to some unknown cause. Sometimes the ureter(s) affected needs to be trimmed down lengthwise and reimplanted coming in at a different angle on the bladder. The change in site of implantation uses fluid mechanics to decrease the amount of fluid that can backup and cause pressure.
Think a malfunctioning ureter as a garden hose that runs from the bladder to the kidneys (i.e., the wrong way). Stretched up as a straight pipe, things go pretty fast up through to the kidneys. Add some curve and/or a kink, and the flow slows down or stops. The buildup of pressure here is good, because the pressure buildup stretches the bladder and causes the urge to urinate.
When the pressure on the bladder was relieved by letting urine backflow into the kidneys, the proper impulse to urinate didn't come as quickly (and the kidney doesn't have stretch receptors to trigger urination, so it served as a temporary pressure sink).
Make sense? Ask questions! I can find links or explain in different words. I'll keep looking for good sites.
**Terminology notes: the ureters are the tubes that lead from each kidney to the bladder. There are usually two. The urethra is the (usually single) tube that leads from the bladder to the outside, e.g. to the tip of the penis in boys.
XRays of these parts are generally ordered as a "KUB" view (kidneys, ureters, bladder).
The VCUG procedure is a "voiding" (watches radiopaque urine flow outward) "cysto" (means "from the bladder," like cystitis is inflammation of the bladder) "urethro" (through the urethra) "gram" (study) to rule out VUR, or "vesico" (also means "from the bladder") "ureteral" (back up through the ureters) "reflux" (the backwards flow part).
We usually use sedation for the VCUG, as it is uncomfortable. Often we use midazolam, which takes away some of the anxiety and adds some retrograde amnesia, so that most often the memory is hazy (or lost) from about 1/2 hour before the medication was first started.
[ December 13, 2003, 07:07 AM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by LadyDove (Member # 3000) on :
Pop- Any news?
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Hopefully nothing new until the next test -- not yet scheduled. We're still waiting for the referral. (Anything new before that test would be bad.) We will update when we know more, but thanks for thinking of us.
--Pop
Posted by LadyDove (Member # 3000) on :
Glad to hear that no news is good news.
You guys are never far from our thoughts.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
*Update, though "downdate" is perhaps more apt*
Ok, for those curious, we got the results of Mooselet's most recent test. We're still waiting for approval from the medical group to make the appointment with the urologist, but hopefully that will happen this month. (Insert -- just got an e-mail from Mama, and the appointment is scheduled for 2/12, but we hope for a cancellation so we can move up. She's pretty unhappy about that, too -- she had to asterisk-out some words. Anyone who has met Mama knows how severe that is.) The highlights of the results:
quote:INDICATION: Hydronephrosis.
TECHNIQUE: After obtaining a scout film and following intravenous injection of 20 cc of Isovue 300, sequential images are obtained of the kidneys and collecting systems.
FINDINGS: There is symmetric and immediate visualization of the kidneys. They appear to be of normal size. The collecting systems are, however, abnormal with moderate hydronephrosis bilaterally. Megaureters are, however, identified to the bladder bilaterally. The bladder is irregular inferiorly due to prior surgery.
SUMMARY:
1. Marked ureteral dilatation with distention of the ureters from the kidneys to the bladder.
2. Moderate hydronephrosis.
3. Bladder deformity.
4. Chronic reflux +/- outlet obstruction is to be considered.
I don't know what all of it means, but I googled "megaureter," and wasn't exactly comforted by what I read. Probably the most frustrating thing is that many sites seem to indicate that problems like Mooselet has had can be diagnosed in utero, but apparently our ultrasounds were too rushed and so they weren't caught, which is why Mooselet (and Mama and I) went through the unexpected hell we did, rather than an a more expected purgatorial experience. But that's moot now, aside from the fact that I'm going to demand a far more thorough ultrasound for any future children.
The doc who did the test showed us the films, and the ureters were certainly noticeable. He said they were dilated so much that they essentially had the capacity of a second bladder. How this will affect potty training I don't know, but it's almost definitely the cause of the UTIs. The hydronephrosis was on both sides this time, so it may be enough of an issue to begin threatening the kidneys again, and it's possible (if not pretty much inevitable, if I might read between the lines) that surgery will be necessary again. *sob*
We'll keep you updated.
Oh, Mama mentioned something to me recently that I didn't know. After the last meeting with Mooselet's orthopedist, he said things were looking great. She heard him speaking into his little digirecorder, however, and it sounded to her like a repeat surgery might be necessary there, too. *sigh* When it rains, it pours, I guess. We'll try to stay optimistic there, too.
--Pop
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
(((((((Moose and Squirrel Family)))))))
Good luck.
Posted by Javert Hugo (Member # 3980) on :
Oh, Pop. My heart goes out to y'all.
*hugs Meese, especially the adorable Mooselet*
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
(((((Mooselet)))))
(((Papa Moose & Mama Squirrel)))
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
(((((Mooses)))))
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Hugs for all of you, and you're in my prayers.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm so sorry to hear that the news isn't great. I really admire the strength, courage, and optimism with which you guys are able to meet these challenges. I will continue to pray for you. *giant hug*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
(((((hugs for all the Meese)))))
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
You have Strength (yes, with a capital S), Meeses, and continue to be an inspiration to me. Not exactly a panacaea for what you are going through now, but I wanted you to know how I felt.
I'm hugging you and praying for you and sending you good thoughts.
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
(((Moose family)))
(((Mooselet)))
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
*hug*
Posted by matt (Member # 236) on :
Did little Mooselet have an IVP (is that the most recent report listed)? Or was that a report from some prior study?
We do IVPs (admittedly almost exclusively on adults) at Duke...we do plenty of VCUGs on peds patients, but I've not seen many IVPs ordered on the kids. Most of what we do in those cases are abdominal CT scans...but the IVPs, while not fun, aren't that bad either. The little guy shouldn't be too traumatized, after all the posts describing what he's already been through.
If prayers help, this little man's got a ton of people on his side pulling for him...
(CT, a quick question on the side: what hospital do you practice at, where sedation's commonly provided for VCUGs? I've asked for that several times at UNC and at Duke, but we rarely administer any sedation prior to beginning a study. CT sedates before most of their exams, but under normal fluoro the techs & radiologists just seem very opposed to it for whatever reason)
Posted by MaydayDesiax (Member # 5012) on :
((((((Mooselet and family)))))) and all our prayers and love.
-Mayday and Bernard
Posted by Wendybird (Member # 84) on :
I will continue prayers for your family. Hang in there. Medical things with our kids are the hardest. Don't overly worry about the Doc's dictation (talking in that recorder thing ) Those reports have to cover everything in today's sue happy world. If you are concerned you can mention that you were unsure about future surgery and can he clarify. Stay strong and have faith. I am sure the Lord has your family in his hands and is helping you.
Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
We love you Mooses. Many prayers and a lot of love are being sent your way. (((Moose family)))
[ January 06, 2004, 01:03 AM: Message edited by: Narnia ]
Posted by larisse (Member # 2221) on :
Papa Moose... you and Mama Squirrel amaze me. You are dealing with this AND a new baby. All I can do is add my support to the rest. Stay strong and full of love.
((((Mooselet and his wonderful family))))
Posted by ak (Member # 90) on :
<<<hugs and prayers for the Meese>>>
Posted by Dan_raven (Member # 3383) on :
I would like to add something to what has been said, but all I can say is you have my prayers and best wishes Mooselet.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
You see, I even want attention when I'm not around, hound that I am, but as long as you folks keep indicating that you care, I'll keep posting.
I've been pretty much unable to spend any time at Hatrack the past couple of days. Mooselet probably has the flu, but the doc didn't say for sure. What we do know is that Friday evening he started throwing up, and he was pretty much unable to stop (not constant vomiting, but repeated, dare I say it, ad nauseum). He couldn't even keep water down, and was vomiting bile because there simply wasn't anything else in his stomach. He also had some diarrhea, apparently, at some point during the night. I stayed in his room that night, so I could be on the spot quickly if/when he threw up, so between some six or seven separate times vomiting, I got maybe an hour of sleep.
We saw a doc on Saturday, who prescribed Phenergan (promethazine) to help keep him from throwing up (anything else we should know about this medicine, oh ye who know?). (Side note, which I found humorous, and I need humor to get through this. It's in suppository form, and because he's so small the dose needs to be half-strength. The humorous part is that the prescription says "1/2 suppository per rectum every 4 hours." Per rectum? Do they honestly have patients with more than one?) Anyway, we've only been able to give him water and diluted gatorade or apple juice, and only in small quantities. He doesn't really have the energy to cry, but whimpers pretty often when he's not sleeping. He's hungry, and we can't give him food.
["Too much information" section, skip if you wish]
In addition to helping him not throw up, apparently this medicine encourages the bowels to empty themselves entirely. During his sleep after the first 1/2 suppository, he had an unbelievable episode -- I went into his room while he was still asleep, and I could smell that something was wrong. Upon examination, his diaper looked as though someone had applied feces with a trowel, and done so over the entire inside surface, all the way from mid-back to bellybutton. It was also on his shirt, shorts, and sheets. We had to wake him up, wipe him down, then gave him another bath (he'd had one the night before, just before throwing up the first time). Between the vomiting and this, we went through five sets of sheets, two mattress covers, three towels, and several burp cloths, and the shirt we just threw out.
[/TMI]
So my mom was visiting during the past few days -- not quite the visit she was expecting or hoping for, really, but she's still glad she was here, as were we. I'm sure (in that optimistic everything-will-be-ok-eventually way) that Mooselet will be fine, but it's not pleasant for any of us. As usual, prayers are appreciated and welcome.
While I appreciate most the prayers for Mooselet, I could really use some myself. I've felt this before, but I forced myself to verbalize it this time both to my wife and my mother. The reality is that when Mooselet gets really sick like this (like the first time he went to the E.R.), I'm far more scared than I usually admit. I try to stay strong, especially for Mama, but the truth of the matter is that I fear that one of these times, Mooselet simply won't wake up. I'll sometimes wake up in the middle of the night, and I feel a need to go into his room to verify that he's still breathing.
It's not a problem I've had most any other time. Mama's never been that sick, at least not since I met her, and Superstation has been fine, too. I've never cared as much whether or not I die, except now for Mama and the kids' sake, and I've never had any anxiety about industrial accidents or car crashes, but a severely unhealthy child is nearly paralyzing to me.
Friday night, when he kept throwing up, I lay awake in his room wondering what I would say in a Hatrack post announcing that Mooselet died. It's a morbid thought, I know, but that's what I was thinking. Oh, and I don't know how many people here watch Joan of Arcadia, but we had recorded it on Friday and watched it yesterday afternoon, and I nearly lost it then, too. In case people haven't seen the episode, I'll say no more.
Anyway, I'm gonna go ahead and ask specifically for prayers on my behalf regarding this issue. I don't ask that often for things on my own behalf, I don't think, but this time I am. It's still sort of on others' behalf, since I'm a more pleasant person to be around when I'm not dwelling on death, but that's probably as much or more an after-the-fact justification as it is a reality.
A little good news in the mix -- any good public speaker* knows you're supposed to end on a high note -- we got his appointment at Children's Hospital moved up three weeks to January 22nd, so the anxiety and agony of not knowing won't be so prolonged.
Good heavens -- I'm sorry this was so long. Why do you people listen to me? Well, until next time....
--Pop
*As I was growing up in a relatively Christian environment, I remember a frequent question asked of me and others was what my/their favorite passage of scripture was, and I was surprised at how many people answered the "Sermon on the Mount." I'm sorry, but that is a downer of a speech. One of the things I remember about it is how it ends on such a dour note, and I would occasionally wonder how Jesus got the job he did, what with being such a poor public speaker.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Papa, how old is Mooselet? I'm thinking about the phenargan and diluted gatorade.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
2 and a half. The doc suggested the gatorade because Mooselet simply won't drink pedialyte. Of course, he doesn't much like the gatorade, either. The Phenargan are 12.5 mg, but he only gets half of that per dose. Is there a mixing issue between these things, and we shouldn't be giving him gatorade at all?
As a side note, the doc was originally going to give him another medicine that would (if I recall correctly) block his bowels -- probably to prevent what happened yesterday -- but because of his history decided against it.
(I always love it when you say something, because hearing from a doctor who I know cares, even one whom I've never met in person, means much more to me than whoever is on call at the emergency clinic.)
--Pop
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I will continue to pray for Mooselet, and pray especially for you.
I hate being across the country when friends are sick. I want to be there and bring you guys dinner or help clean up so you can get some rest. I want to hold Mooselet and give you and Mama a hug.
Instead I’ll offer this (along with virtual hugs and real prayers) – did you know that the phrase “Fear not” or “Be not afraid” is repeated over 70 times in the Bible? Pick your favorite one and hold on tight.
I particularly like Isaiah 43:1b-2 “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk though fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”
You’re walking through fire, trying to be strong for your family, and though it feels like you’re being burned, I know you won’t burn up. You will have the strength you need.
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
PapaMoose, I can't even think of Mooselet as "sick" having met him and seen how happy and lively he is. Knowing all the trouble he's had and is going through, I still can't picture him as ill. And yet I know how it must be eating you up inside, and MamaSquirrel too. You two are so strong in your relationship and in your faith, that I for one tend to think that you are by far the best parents Mooselet could have. If anyone could see him through this, you both can.
On the other hand, of course, you aren't super-human. And I send my prayers for you to be as strong as you need to be and for Mooselet to get well soon. And for MamaSquirrel and Superstation too. But mostly for you this time...
I wish I could be there to help. I'm not that keen on cleaning up explosive diarrhea, but I could at least try to help.
Glad your mom was there to lend a hand too.
Posted by celia60 (Member # 2039) on :
((mooses))
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
quote:We saw a doc on Saturday, who prescribed Phenergan (promethazine) to help keep him from throwing up (anything else we should know about this medicine, oh ye who know?).
It works well, but we generally do not use it for kids here. That doesn't mean you can't -- I've seen it usde in the ER -- but I'm not so familiar with it.
quote:The humorous part is that the prescription says "1/2 suppository per rectum every 4 hours." Per rectum? Do they honestly have patients with more than one?
*grin People have been known to take it by mouth; i.e., mistakenly eat it.
Prescriptions are rife with old Latin terms. To write a script, you include the name of the drug, the concentration, the amount to take, the route (PO = per orum, Latin for "by mouth"; PR = per rectum; IV = intravenous; IM = intramuscular; SC or sub-q = subcutaneous, or "under the skin"), how frequently to take it and for how long, and then how much for the pharmacist to dispense.
quote:Anyway, we've only been able to give him water and diluted gatorade or apple juice, and only in small quantities. He doesn't really have the energy to cry, but whimpers pretty often when he's not sleeping. He's hungry, and we can't give him food.
Gatorade is electrolyte-balanced for adults, and it isn't so good for children. the sodium/potassium concentrations are off. Have you tried pedialyte liquid or popsicles? (pedialyte = gatorade for the younger crowd).
Popsicles are good because they force you to take in the liquid slowly.
quote:In addition to helping him not throw up, apparently this medicine encourages the bowels to empty themselves entirely. During his sleep after the first 1/2 suppository, he had an unbelievable episode ...
Probably just the rectal stimulation of inserting a suppository. Any dilation of the GI tract stimulates further dlation farther down as well as contraction in the area before it. The muscles of the GI tract have a vast neural network of interconnections and feedback loops.
quote:I'm far more scared than I usually admit. I try to stay strong, especially for Mama, but the truth of the matter is that I fear that one of these times, Mooselet simply won't wake up. I'll sometimes wake up in the middle of the night, and I feel a need to go into his room to verify that he's still breathing.
The real problem is dehydration, and there are ways to take care of this. Would you like me to talk you through it? Would you like my phone number (you could call in the middle of the night)? I'd be happy to help in any way I can.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
quote:2 and a half. The doc suggested the gatorade because Mooselet simply won't drink pedialyte.
Was the doc a pediatrician, or was he family med / just ER? I'm not happy about giving gatorade to kids.
Pedialyte tastes nasty and salty. There are two good ways to get pedialyte into kids: first, use popsicles or freeze it yourself into a slushy mix and feed by spoon. Everything tastes better frozen. Also, you can mix it 1/2 & 1/2 with juice, instead of mixing juice with water. Try white grape juice instead of apple juice -- apple juice tends to promote diarrhea, as it has a substantial amount of pectin (a sugar that osmotically retains fluid in the GI tract).
quote:Is there a mixing issue between these things, and we shouldn't be giving him gatorade at all?
No mixing problem that I know of. If you can't get him to take
quote:As a side note, the doc was originally going to give him another medicine that would (if I recall correctly) block his bowels -- probably to prevent what happened yesterday -- but because of his history decided against it.
I think that's a good call. Where I trained, we never give anti-diarrhea agents to kids.
quote:I always love it when you say something, because hearing from a doctor who I know cares, even one whom I've never met in person, means much more to me than whoever is on call at the emergency clinic.
Delighted to help in any way I can. It makes the training having been worthwhile.
I'm serious about phone consults, any time.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
quote:No mixing problem that I know of. If you can't get him to take ...
Let me finish that thought. If you can't get him to take pedialyte at all, try some nice-tasting broth. Clear chicken or beef broth is relatively easy on the stomach, and you could probably mix the unflavored pedialyte with that to mask the taste.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
2 1/2 = 15 to 20 lbs? The recommended dose of phenargen would be 7.5 to 10 mg, so half a suppository would be okay.
I really like rxlist for online pharmaceutical information.
Papa, I'm emailing you two phone numbers (cell and home). I'll take the cell with me when I go to Christy's.
[ January 11, 2004, 04:08 PM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
Lots of hugs anf prayers for the Moose family, and especially for you, Pop. Hang on.
[ January 12, 2004, 05:04 AM: Message edited by: Anna ]
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
Oh, Moose Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
(((mooselet)))
Posted by ak (Member # 90) on :
Pop, I know exactly what you mean about the fear and worry. I am praying for all of you, but for you especially, that you may be supported and strengthened, to be the mainsail of strength for your family, and that you may be comforted for the peace of your heart.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Thank you, all. Dkw, I don't know if you know the song "Fear Not," which is based on Isaiah 43, but I started singing it to myself when I read your comments. Thanks.
CT:
quote:Have you tried pedialyte liquid or popsicles?
Yeah, we tried freezing it, and he ate some, but since that first time he hasn't had any interest -- he pushes it away even frozen. Maybe we can try the slush thing, though.
quote:The real problem is dehydration, and there are ways to take care of this.
Yeah, we'd figured that was the danger, but that as long as he was taking in some liquid and wetting diapers that he was probably ok. Also when we press an area of his skin to make it go white, the red color comes back within a two-count. That's a way to test for hydration, too, isn't it, or am I remembering wrong? Anyway, yeah, I wouldn't mind you walking us through, but via e-mail might be better, since I don't know if everyone else wants to hear about it. I'm keeping the phone number(s) handy, though.
quote:Try white grape juice instead of apple juice
Only white grape? I will certainly go to the store to get it, but I already have regular grape juice here.
quote:Clear chicken or beef broth is relatively easy on the stomach
Mama probably knows, but what exactly constitutes broth? Can I make Campbell's chicken noodle soup and give Mooselet just the liquid? Can I do that with ramen? Do I need to buy "broth" at the store? Does it come pre-made, or are we talking boullion cubes (I've heard of them, but never seen them)?
quote:2 1/2 = 15 to 20 lbs? The recommended dose of phenargen would be 7.5 to 10 mg
He's actually closer to 25 pounds, but probably not quite there after not eating for a couple days, and because of his "cleansing" experience.
Everything you've said helps me feel better. Also helps to know I'm talking to a pediatrician -- since Mooselet was the only kid in the clinic, I assume the doctor was more likely a GP.
--Pop
Posted by tabithecat (Member # 5228) on :
Pop, I wish I had more to give you than ever loving good thoughts ... but you have those in spades! take gentle care...
[ January 11, 2004, 04:50 PM: Message edited by: tabithecat ]
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
:: hugs and prayers :: Satyagraha
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
((((Papa Moose)))) (((Mooselet))) (((Mama Sqirrel)))
Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
*hugs*
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
Good luck. I hope he gets better soon.
(prayers and good wishes)
((((((((Papa Moose and Mama Squirrel))))))) ((((((((Mooselet))))))))
and for good measure...
(((((((Superstation)))))))
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
(((((all the Meese)))))
Posted by larisse (Member # 2221) on :
Papa Moose,
My heart goes out to you and your family. I think that you and Mama Squirrel have more strength within than even you recognize. And it's this strength that Mooselet and Superstation feel, and I am sure emulate. Sometimes it is easier for "strangers" to see this. I know that I would be priveledged even to have met your family only once.
Just know that you are in my thoughts. As for passages from the Bible, I don't really know the specific chapter and line, but I have always liked the passage where Jesus is at Gethsemane, and he's praying for all the hardships and ordeals to pass from him. He has this chance where he could have just stepped off the path, and yet he doesn't. For me it's one of the most poignant moments of faith, strength, and love. It reminds me that true love and sacrifice comes from doing the hard things for the people you most care about even when you think you can't go on. Funny thing is is that I didn't learn that from any church sermon. I learned that from watching an episode of Babylon 5. Go figure.
Incidently, Swanson makes both a premade chicken broth and beef broth. I think they either come in cans or in those easy close cartons. Usually they are used for starters for soups. I am sure there are other brands as well.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Try 1/2 & 1/2 with white grape juice in ice cube trays, then slush it up.
Exactly! You are measuring "capillary refill," and 2 seconds or less is normal. He should urinate (even just a little bit) at least every 8 hours, and given his renal history, at least every 6 would be even better.
Okay, we can withdraw gracefully. (but first ...)
White grape juice is gentlest on the system.
Most any of the soups would be fine, but the Ramen powder is probably least helpful. Try the Campbell's chicken noodle without the noodles, as it's a taste he's probably familiar with. Familiar is good.
Call anytime. We'll keep the cordless on the nighttable.
Posted by LadyDove (Member # 3000) on :
Ah Pop- I've often said that our babies are children only a short time, but the night spent nursing our sick child lasts an eternity.
Jacob had a very similar virus last November. He had constant vomitting, but no fever. The vomitting lasted 3 days.
Long ago I gave-up on Pedialyte. It made my kids gag. This is what I give the kids when they can't keep anything down:
During the worst of it, I give him a teaspoon of water every five minutes.
When he can keep the teaspoons of water down, then I expand to clear, lightly-colored, non-citrus, non-carbonated liquids like lightly flavored water, diluted jello, white grape juice, flat 7-Up, and the broth from Chicken Ramen.
I'll also give him Cheerios to nibble.
After he is keeping down the liquids and Cheerios, you can go to soft, bland foods. Continue to avoid dairy products until you're sure his stomach is fine.
Pop, as I understand it, the clear liquid thing has to do with the fact that the heavier liquids upset the stomach and are harder to digest. From a very practical angle, it is easier to clean stains from lightly colored liquids than bright red or purple ones.
Pop, my heart goes out to you. Between your lack of sleep and sadness at seeing Carl in pain, you've got to be worn-out both physically and mentally. When I get to that point, the fear sets in. I get afraid that I'm not doing everything and anticipating every problem; seeing every sign.
At these times I think about the "Footprints" poem and let God carry me. And I remember that the depressing thoughts and dreams I'm having are fears, not premonitions. Fears... not premonitions.
Love you guys. You have my thoughts and prayers; let me know if I can do anything else.
Posted by LadyDove (Member # 3000) on :
Oops- CT had already answered some of the same questions - I guess this is what happens when I start a post, then go make dinner, finish a thought, then hit enter without refreshing. Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
LadyDove, no, not at all. You are beautifully comprehensive, and as always, exactly correct. Posted by ak (Member # 90) on :
CT can tell you if this is medically sound, but the very last resort, when you can't keep anything else down, is this. Mix about a teaspoonful of Karo syrup in a cup of water and give a small amount at a time, like a sip or a teaspoonful every hour, round the clock. Karo syrup is pure glucose, which is easier to digest than dextrose (table sugar) and the short chain sugar molecules do something to reverse the channels in the intestines which are allowing water from the bloodstream to dump into the digestive tract. It does nothing for electolyte balance, but it does get fluid into you, and is the very easiest thing of all to keep down, when even clear broths come back up.
If it's that bad, you may want to take him to the hospital for an IV, but I once got my cat through a liver infection, in which dehydration was the most life threatening part, by staying up all night and giving him a dropperful of this mixture each hour. (I had to force him to drink it.) My mom took the day shift. I guess now I would just give subcutaneous fluids, as I did with Brando one time, which Dr. George showed me how to do and it's not that hard. I don't know if that applies to children. But I still do use Karo syrup in water, for myself or anyone who is vomiting, as I have found it will stay down when absolutely everything, clear broth included, comes back up.
It tastes okay, too, so you might be able to get him to drink it. I wonder why they can't make a pedialyte formula that tastes good like Gatorade? That's a shame that it tastes vile. I wonder if it has to have more potassium or something. My potassium supplements that I am supposed to take twice a day are hard for me to take. The pill is huge and tastes very bitter if you happen to have a hard time swallowing it at first, and if I take it too early in the day, or on a stomach that isn't full enough, it makes me very nauseated. This coupled with the fact that I hardly get any food at all makes it hard. There IS no time when I have a full stomach. I rarely can manage more than one a day and often don't even take one. If I'm at all sick, I have to skip it altogether. I wish there was a better way to get potassium in me. I'd love for there to be an artificially sweetened version of Gatorade that I could drink for the potassium.
[ January 12, 2004, 09:05 AM: Message edited by: ak ]
Posted by MaydayDesiax (Member # 5012) on :
Poor baby...
(((((Mooses))))) and prayers that he gets better soon!
-Mayday
Posted by Javert Hugo (Member # 3980) on :
Poor baby.
Pop, you and your family have my admiration and complete affection. *hugs*
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
Oh, Pop. On top of everything else, now this. It's OK to admit that you're scared. Who wouldn't be? But Mooselet's lucky to have you; I can't think of a better dad for the little guy.
You and yours are, as always, in my thoughts, and Juliette's.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
I was asked in another thread how Mooselet was doing, so here's an update.
He hasn't thrown up in two days (gagged a little bit twice, but nothing came out that wasn't already in his mouth). His diapers (as mentioned in the other thread) are still occasionally filled (to overflowing, literally) with soup that's thick enough that it doesn't get absorbed, so changing those diapers is an ordeal. He's been eating so little and getting rid of so much that he honestly looks like one of those kids they show on the brink of starvation in poorer countries so you'll spend $21 a month to support them. His belly is distended, all his limbs look incredibly thin, and his face is downright gaunt. He's always been pretty pale, but it just adds to a sickly appearance. He's been weak enough that he often stumbles when walking.
However, all in all he's still relatively cheery. He's a little clingy, and he'll point out regularly that his tummy hurts. He's now keeping solid food (beyond crackers) down, which is good. We haven't been so bold as to try dairy yet, despite his constant requests for milk. We (Mama and I) both think he's past the roughest part, but the diarrhea could continue for a while. He's still heartbreaking both with his smile and his whimper.
We've scheduled another appointment with the orthopedist because it's clear his feet are turning back in. He's also due for another vaccination next week, but I think we'll just wait until he's well past this bug.
I'm also much less scared than I was, and my thoughts and dreams haven't been about death. Thank you all (from all of us) for your prayers and encouragement.
--Pop
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Pop, you probably already know this but before you give him milk make sure he's getting enough yogurt with acidophilus cultures in it. His bacteria just had a major die off and need to be replenished (CT tell me if I'm saying something off the wall). You might be able to give him the more exotic milk with acidophilus in it too to help at the beginning.
I'm a die hard milk drinker but I had to do this when I had my tonsils out. The milk was too thick to swallow so I didn't have any for a couple weeks and my bacteria massively died off. I had to start back very slowly and ate lots and lots of yoghurt.
AJ
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
(((Moose family))) (((Mooselet)))
It's good to hear he's doing better. Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
Gosh, what a little trooper. We're all pulling for you, little dude!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
If acidophilus is an issue (and with really nasty diarrhea, it sure can be!), they make powdered acidophilus for kids that can be added to juice and such. IIRC, it's sold as "babydophilus"? Try a health food store.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Acidophilus sounds great, AJ and rivka.
Papa, try Silk brand vanilla soy milk. I'm serious -- it should be at your grocery store. The problem with dairy is that gastroenteritis wipes out the lactose that is secreted in the "brush border" (villi) of the intestine. Takes awhile to rebuild, as AJ said. meanwhile, soy should be more readily absorbed, and it might content him.
Good luck! *fingers crossed
CT, who used to think soy milk sounded ghastly, but after trying it, now way prefers it
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
FYI, iirc, Silk soy milk is one of the brands that comes (and needs to stay) refrigerated. It's got a nice flavor, though. My personal preference for non-milk milk taste-wise is almond milk, but I have no idea how that compares to soy milk in ease of digestion.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
"babydophilus" makes me think of baby dolphins. Posted by AndrewR (Member # 619) on :
((((To all the Moose out there))))
Posted by Wendybird (Member # 84) on :
quote: I'm far more scared than I usually admit. I try to stay strong, especially for Mama, but the truth of the matter is that I fear that one of these times, Mooselet simply won't wake up. I'll sometimes wake up in the middle of the night, and I feel a need to go into his room to verify that he's still breathing
I know EXACTLY how you feel. There are many many nights when I wake up and go to Stephen's room to make sure he is still breathing, all three kids actually because I fight this paranoia that one of my children will die, of course Stephen is at the most risk. It is a terrifying feeling, my chest constricts, my muscles tense, my neck gets sore and my head starts pounding. All I can do is check on Stephen, take a deep breath and remind myself that no matter what happens God loves me and is taking care of my family. Faith has to step in because there really is no other way. If you were here I would give you a huge hug and we could cry together, you and Mama Squirrel and my dh. About a year before Stephen's transplant a young man that attended our church was hit by a car and died. As I sat in his funeral service, looking around at the people who loved this family and were there for them I had a horrible vision of these same people sitting there for us. It about killed me. Even now thinking back I sob. I wish I knew what to say that would help. Maybe it will help to know your feelings are completely normal. I attend a support group for parents of seriously ill and dying children. Everyone of us experiences the same thing in varying degrees. One mom has some PostTraumatic Stress symptoms. It helps to talk to other parents that are in similar situations. Maybe you can contact your social worker at your hospital and ask her/him if there are any groups. At the very least make sure you talk with Mama Squirrel. I know it helps me more to know my husband needs my support and is feeling the way I am. I feel less alone that way, and we can lean on each other.
((((Papa Moose and Mama Squirrel))))
Hang in there and know you are not alone. The pain the Savior suffered was for our pain and suffering, not just our sins.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
I acually worked a temp job about a year and a half ago where I was one of the flunkies running bacteria samples on aged Silk. I was working for the company that made the carton machine that folds and seals the cartons and fills them with liquid. We were working on stuff kept warmer than a normal fridge, and aged for like 4 months. Really considering all of the extreme factors, the bacteria counts weren't bad. However there was enough nastiness with fermented soy milk, that I personally could never drink the stuff unless it was a matter of life or death!
AJ
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
don't feed Mooselet baby dolphins!!!
I'm so glad the little guy is feeling a bit better.
He's very lucky to have such a great dad!
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
Apparently they don't buy dolphin-safe tuna.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Hatrack threads: Like 'broken telephone,' only more so.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
(((Papa Moose and Mama Squirrel))) (((Mooselet))) (((whole Moose family)))
I wish I had more to offer than to say I'm praying for you.
Posted by jana at jade house (Member # 6101) on :
I am a Mama to daughter: age 33 son age: age 30 son age:11 daughter:9
plus I have 3 grand boys under 5
I have helped raised the better part of 75 children as well. I thought I could weather any sick baby story by now. Mooselet has my whole heart in a knot. The Moose Familt is on my permanent prayer list now.
I commend your bravery, Papa.
jana
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
Ah, Pop, I can't wait for the day when you post that Mooselet is finally completely healthy, with no more surgeries on the horizon. That poor kid, and you poor parents. I hate that you're having to go through this.
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
One thing that really struck me in Moose's post was Mooselet's happy demeanor. He is SUCH a happy kid. I enjoyed being around him. Even in a restaurant. Which is saying a lot for a 2 year old.
He's an amazing kid.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
A couplephotos of Mooselet. The pictures look a little better than the reality, though. Mama weighed him a couple days ago, albeit not on an incredibly accurate scale, and he was only 23 pounds. That's not even on the weight chart for his age.
Still, we're taking things one day at a time. He's keeping down all his food -- even meat, although he definitely prefers carby stuff like noodles and pretzels and crackers -- and he likes the soy milk well enough, though it's making his nose run more. I think he's over the hump, and we just have to wait for this thing to run its course. You folks have been a huge help and support for me and mine, and we do appreciate it more than you know.
--Pop
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Keep in mind that he's likely slightly dehydrated. A few days of eating fairly normally should take care of that, and put back on a surprising number of pounds. (At least, it always does after I've been sick. )
(((((all the Meese)))))
Posted by Lime (Member # 1707) on :
Papa, I haven't posted or said much in this thread, but it tears my heart to read this. I haven't met Mooselet, but the pictures that I have soon are just as Bob's described: happy, bright and much more agreeable than most 2 year olds are. I'm glad to hear that he's getting better. You are in my prayers.
(((The Meese)))
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
(((Moose family))) (((Mooselet)))
Posted by Wendybird (Member # 84) on :
Papa Moose --Mooselet is adorable! How old is he? My Brigham is 2 next month and is right about Mooselet's size. He fell off the bottom of the growth chart at 5 months and hasn't made it back on yet. By all accounts he's healthy, just small. So Mooselet doesn't look too bad to me! Glad to hear he is doing better. Keep being the wonderful parents that you both are.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Papa Moose, I'm so glad. Congratulations on some awesome parenting.
(and call anytime)
Posted by Kwea (Member # 2199) on :
I'm not around much these days, and this is the first time I've had a chance to read up on all that your family is going through ...
I was a very, very sick child; so sick that the police had to rush me to the ER on several occasions before my second birthday, lights going and all. I am healthy, recently married, and looking forward to the day we have children of our own.
I hope and pray that Mooslets health will continue to improve. I know it isn't easy to be a parent in these situations.
I hope that, if the situation were to happen to our children,we would do half as well as you are doing. Just stay positive, for his sake, and love him, as you quite obviously do. That is all a parent can do, and will be what he remembers most, if he remembers anything about this at all. All I remember is my parents always being there for me, whenever I was sick or hurt, and hopefully that is all he will remember tweny-five years from now...
Kwea
Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
We love you Mooses. I'm going to put your names on our prayer roll at the Portland Temple (LDS) tomorrow and pray for you myself...so that will be lots of people plus just me praying for you and Mooselet.
Like I said, we love you. Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Again, thank you all.
I was going to wait until after Mooselet's next two appointments for an update, but since the thread has been bumped, I'll throw in a word or two. He appears to be entirely past the flu. He's back to eating like a... well, like a moose. No, not just twigs and shrubs. He's packing down large amounts of food of all kinds, as well as regular milk (the vanilla silk soymilk got us through quite well, thank you -- if only it didn't cost three times as much as regular!), and his cheeks actually looked puffy this morning. This has been a great relief to Mama and me -- thanks to all of you for helping us through this trying time.
Thursday is the urologist appointment and next Monday is the orthopedist. I'll update (for those who care) after those two, and hopefully we'll know our next courses of action.
Love you guys.
--Pop
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
<sends prayers out for Mooselet & family>
<sends retroactive prayers too, so if this thread disappears, you'll know why>
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I'm very very glad this part is over, Papa Moose. You'll stay in my thoughts for a long time.
Posted by AndrewR (Member # 619) on :
Good to hear good news, P.M. The start of a roll, I hope.
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
::finally exhales::
Whew! I'm glad things are looking up for you all.
Posted by LadyDove (Member # 3000) on :
:::smiles big,big::: Good job Moose family!
Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
I'm so happy to hear that
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
What a relief! That's great news!
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Ok, promised an update, here it is.
Weight check on Wednesday last, and he's back up to 28 pounds (though that was dressed). We're back on the chart.
Thursday, we saw the urologist. From the scans, he determined that Mooselet's kidneys were "very delicate." Um, doc, is delicate good or bad? It could kinda go either way. Ah, it's good. Excellent.
So despite some mild hydronephrosis, the kidneys appear to be in good shape. This is the more important thing, and the news is good. The hydronephrosis and dilated ureters could still be just leftover from the original blockage, or there could still be a slight blockage remaining. This is what the doctor will be finding out next.
So Mooselet is scheduled for some investigative surgery in a few weeks -- Friday the 13th, it so happens. We're not superstitious people or anything, but I'm staying away from all mirrors that day, and if a black cat even thinks about crossing my path I may change my personal stance on gun ownership.
The doctor will be doing a something-oscopy, though I don't think that's the proper medical term. Basically he'll be using a peniscope (again, I'm pretty confident that's not the technical name) to do a little internal tour of the bladder and its suburbs, and find out what exactly the situation is. This one is recon only, so there shouldn't be any actual cutting going on. Mooselet will be out for it (thank goodness), but likely rather unhappy afterward. Good thing the Shinda was pushed back to the 22nd, probably.
So we're back to a holding pattern there. But there's nothing imminently dangerous, so we're not stressing, right? Right?
This morning we saw the orthopedist. While he agrees with us that the feet are turning back in (it's visible when Mooselet walks), he's actually pretty optimistic. There are two issues regarding the clubfoot -- the front of the foot and the back of the foot. The back is apparently the more crucial issue, and that looks very good -- almost perfect. The front not so much, but still doesn't look bad. Just not correct.
So tomorrow morning, we return to the guy who made the leg braces to get them adjusted (a snip here, some extra padding there) so they'll angle his feet a little further out. He'll also be back to wearing the braces all day instead of only at night, but he was ok with that before, and will probably be ok with it again. It's Mama and I who hated the all-day thing. After three months, we'll see the doc again.
He has said that surgery is still a possibility, but he's trying to avoid it. It would be an easy fix -- 60 minutes of surgery, a couple months of recovery, and the feet will be fine. However, the ability of those feet to stretch up and down or side to side will be far more limited, which could have a greater impact later in life. Thus, he's looking out for Mooselet's future instead of just the present, and we like that in a doc.
So -- major issues are kidneys and backs of feet, and those things are good. Less major things are ureters and fronts of feet, and those we're still treating. Better than the other way around, I'd say.
Again, thank you for your words of encouragement and prayers. You guys are the best.
--Pop
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Yay!
It still doesn't sound like a lot of fun for the little guy, but I'm glad the major stuff is all good.
Posted by Posable_Man (Member # 5105) on :
As a posable man who is missing a foot, I totally empathize!
And thanks for sharing the good news!!!
Go Mooselet! Posted by LadyDove (Member # 3000) on :
Yay! And by the way Pop, you sound great too.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
Yay! We're still praying for you and mooselet and the whole family. Posted by MaydayDesiax (Member # 5012) on :
YAY!
Good luck, Mooselet!
(((Mooses)))
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
(((((all the Meese)))))
Good and getting better! We like that in an update. Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
(((Mooselet)))get well soon. (((Moose family)))Hang in there.
Posted by Ela (Member # 1365) on :
The news sounds positive, overall. Glad to hear it, and hope all continues to go well.
**Ela**
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
Thanks for the update--sounds like things are going in a positive direction.
When you said
quote:This morning we saw the orthopedist. While he agrees with us that the feet are turning back
I initially misread it, and thought that you'd go to the orthopedist because his feet were turning black. I had just enough time to think "Oh, holy crap, that poor kid's got gangrene" before I realized my mistake. Whew!
So, if you start feeling down about all of this again, just think to yourself "at least he doesn't have gangrene!".
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
Noemon--LOL! At least he doesn't have gangrene. I think I will use this to cheer myself up from time to time. "Today is a bit of a crappy day, but at least I don't have gangrene!" That's wonderful.
Also wonderful: Mooselet's progress! Thank you for keeping us updated, Pop, and I will continue to pray for the Meeses. I love the Meeses to pieces. Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
Glad to help jexx.
Posted by Dan_raven (Member # 3383) on :
Great news.
Well good news anyway.
Note to self, when getting a something-oscopy, make sure they aren't using a peniscope. Man, all that technical jargon just about blew my mind.
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
Im female, and the word "peniscope" made ME cringe.
Still, it is a positive themed update. Great to hear! Poor little guy, I hate there is another procedure coming up.
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
Oh man, thank goodness he'll be out for that. "Peniscope." ::shudder::
So will we be seeing Mooselet at the aforementioned Shinda?
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
If the aftermath of that peniscope feels anything like the aftermath of the little roto-rooter thing they sent up my urethra after a stubbornly lodged kidney stone, Mooslet is going to be more than a little unhappy. The only thing that made the pain from that bearable was that it was so much less intense than the pain of the kidney stone was. Peed blood for a week*. Felt like molten lava*. Not plesant. Yow.
*of course, part of that could have been from having the little shard-like kidney stone dragged through my urethra. The thing was basically shaped like an arrow head, and seems to have been fairly sharp.
Posted by amira tharani (Member # 182) on :
*hugs all the Meese* I'm really glad that Mooselet is doing better. I read that thread with my heart in my mouth most of the way through. How is Superstation, by the way? *hugs again* Keep us posted, okay!
Posted by sndrake (Member # 4941) on :
Papa Moose,
I haven't posted much on this thread but I've been keeping up with it. I just wanted you to know that as someone who was a kid dealing with medical issues and sometimes very unpleasant medical tests, your family has been in my thoughts a lot.
For what it's worth, as that former kid, it sounds like you are navigating this with an amazing amount of strength. You have my admiration -- and all the positive thoughts I can send in your direction.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Superstation is wonderful! He has made it difficult for me to get much work done today (I have the joy of having him at work with me, at least for now). At his two month check up he had gained 4 lbs. and 3"! Here is a more current picture of the little guy.
He's very cute. A bit on the drooly/leaky side, but then, that's to be expected at his age.
and mine...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
And how appropriate is it that the picture is "aaw"?! *melts*
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Short version: Looks ok. Continue as before and we'll see how things develop.
Longer version:
We arrived at CHLA at 6 A.M., and went through the admissions process, then headed to waiting room #1. After probably 35-45 minutes, we were called in to see the nurse-practitioner, who ran us through the standard set of questions. Upon determining that everything was fine and Mooselet was ready for surgery, we headed to waiting room #2. It's maybe 7:30 by now. As background, Mooselet last ate at about 8:00 the night before, and had some juice right before our arrival at the hospital. Surgery was scheduled for 9:00.
A little after 10:30 our name is finally called. In the interim, Mooselet impressed and/or charmed every single person he encountered, adults, children, patients, employees, etc. Superstation was with us, too, and was also adorable, but he interacted with far fewer people.
Mooselet and I head up to the pre-op area, while Mama stays with Superstation. They give him drugs (versed?) and he starts getting a little loopy. After half an hour of the drugs taking effect (and us figuring out Blue's Clues), they take him away to surgery and send me to the impatient parents' room (waiting room #3), where I join Mama and Super.
Around 12:30 they come to get us -- Mama goes this time, and I stay with the littlun. So Mama got to talk to the doc, and I didn't, but the essentials are: the bladder and urethra both look fine. The ureters are still enlarged (we knew that), but there's no blockage causing it, so it's undoubtedly just a remnant of the earlier problem. It's quite possible it will resolve itself over time -- time during which Mooselet will remain on the antibiotics. We didn't get a clear idea as to how long they'd wait before taking further action, but a while anyway.
After another 30-40 minutes, Mama called down to the charge nurse to find out from me whether or not Superstation needed to eat again. There was miscommunication there, because all she did was take us both upstairs (which we weren't supposed to do, I later learned, so she just pretended she didn't know there was another child in the stroller). Mooselet woke up about a minute after my arrival, and wasn't too happy. He pulled the (oxygen?) mask off his face, and was just about ready to rip the IV out of his arm, too, but was a little too weak to overpower Mama, who stopped him.
Superstation started making noise, which made it more difficult for nurses to pretend they didn't know he was there. So Mama took him back downstairs and fed him, while I waited for them to finish disconnecting the boy from the hospital. He was still pretty hammered -- couldn't remain in a sitting position. I got him dressed, and after all was said and done, I carried him back downstairs to waiting room #3 where Mama and Superstation were not yet impatient. Mooselet wanted to roam free and play with the toys, but we had to control that somewhat strictly, since he wasn't yet able to stand. We packed up and headed out to the van, and Mooselet started crying in earnest. His throat was still raspy, and crying wasn't helping any, but we needed to get home before Mama and I collapsed from exhaustion.
Mooselet will get another ultrasound in a few weeks, and we see the urologist again on March 11th. Maybe at that point he'll be able to give us some idea of an overall timeframe.
So while there are other things going on in life, I'm not gonna mention them in this post. Today is good news. I thank you all again for your well-wishes, thoughts, and prayers. They still need not stop. *smile*
--Pop
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
<--is happy for the Meeses.
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
(((Mosse Family)))
I'm glad things are getting better.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yay for good news. Sounds like a LOOOONG day.
(((((all the Meese)))))
Posted by MaydayDesiax (Member # 5012) on :
((((((((Mooses))))))))
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
You four are in my thoughts and prayers. I have to say that I'm just thrilled to hear some good news. I was worried even with all the positive indications in your previous posts.
Now it's like you can concentrate on the mechanical stuff (the foot problem) and not worry so much about the little guy having more internal problems.
You all are amazing. Mooselet is wonderful.
This is GREAT!!!
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Congratulations! Hugs to all -
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm so glad to hear that things looked good today (you guys really deserved to finally get some good news)!!!
Get your rest and I hope Mooselet is feeling back to normal in no time!!
((((Meese))))
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
(((meeses)))
for the good news!
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Chapter 61 (or something).
We saw the orthopedist again this morning, and our fears/observations were realized. Mooselet's feet aren't staying the way they need to, so surgery will be happening again.
Even with the leg braces on, his feet have been turning back in, and he often walks on the outer edge of the foot. So some time in later April, he goes for outpatient surgery (this will be his 8th time under anesthesia). They'll be working on both feet -- fixing ligaments and adjusting tendons, after which they'll put him in casts which allow a little room for swelling. 4-5 days later, they fit him with more permanent ones which he'll wear for about 6 weeks. Then back to braces for an indeterminate period of time. If additional surgery turns out to be necessary after this, it probably won't happen until he's at least 4 years old.
Sometimes I really do wish Alvin were here.
Some news that wasn't included last time, when we were being all positive, plus some general family news because we like to share. My dad has Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. However, the oncologist he saw believes that they got everything when they removed the growth/cyst/lump/whatever it was from his neck way back when. He had a catscan last Friday, and we should hear about the results from him later this week, but everyone is pretty optimistic. The doctor was mostly apologetic that my dad would have to experience this test, since it probably wasn't going to show anything.
We see Mooselet's urologist again on Thursday -- had an ultrasound done last week, but something was wrong with the machine or something, so we went to get another today. Walked in the building, and the power went off. Back on half an hour later, though, and most of the people in front of us in line left, so we were the first to go in afterward. The tech thought it looked fine, but we'll wait and hear what the doc says.
Superstation is good, but he has some decently serious eczema and cradle cap (which is actually another type of eczema, if I understand correctly). This may go away (or become dormant?) after some months or years, but until then we just slather him with hydrocortisone a few times a day. Yesterday late afternoon was pretty rough for him because it was so hot (mid-80s in March is unusual, isn't it?), but today hasn't been too bad. Of course, it's not late afternoon yet.
Both kids are as happy as any parent could hope. Mooselet can count, do simple addition (1+1 and 1+2), recite the alphabet, sing a couple of songs (though unless you already know what they're going to be it's kinda tough to tell what they are), and spell both his name and his brother's name. My focus lately has been correct pronunciation -- he's known a lot of words for a while, and I can tell what most of them are when he says them, but that's because I was there when he first learned them. Now he's learning to pronounce them so that other people can understand. Baby Timmy rather than Baby Minnie, movie rather than voovie, coffee rather than bockie, pancake rather than bocake, etc.
We still find it pretty funny when he corrects our pronunciation -- if we refer to Superstation as "Timothy" while in Mooselet's earshot, he'll inform us that it's actually "Timmy." He thinks we're pretty silly sometimes.
I guess that's enough updating for now. Thanks for listening/reading.
--Pop
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
That reminds me of when my son was shortening my daughter's name to 'chelle and she'd exapseratedly say "I'm not 'chell, I'm Rochelle!." So when we'd call him Rusty, he'd say "I'm not Rusty, I'm Rusty!" I guess he honestly couldn't tell the difference between what he called her and what she insisted her name was.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Wow, eight times under anesthesia. Poor kiddo -- and poor parents! Hope the surgery goes well, and may all the news from doctors treating y'all be GOOD!
quote: Both kids are as happy as any parent could hope.
With their parents, this is no surprise.
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Give Mooselet a big hug from me!
And give yourself a manly pat on the back kind of hug as well. You and Mama Squirrel are doing a great job and you are also very lucky to have such happy kids.
Sorry Mooselet has to go through surgery again. This time for sure!
Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
Pops, be sure and let us know when the surgery date is. I know this can't be any picnic and just wish there was something I could do a little more directly...
Our experiences with Rainbow at Children's in Seattle last fall have made us very sympathetic for families with small children going in for surgery. (Some friends of ours are with their one year old at the hospital right now, so we've been spending a lot of time there the past couple of days. Looks like their little daughter is doing great now -- she's battling a staph infection that "scalded" 60% of her little body -- so we're hoping they'll get to go home tomorrow or the next day. )
We find out how our Rainy's hips are doing in about 6 weeks. Right now she looks good...just a trace of a limp...but we have to see xrays to make sure the leg is firm in the socket and the socket is deepening properly. We'll see.
I'll keep you guys in my prayers.
Posted by cochick (Member # 6167) on :
I just reviewed the Moose Family Album on Foobonic and must say that you have two of the most adorable children I've ever seen.
They both look very happy which is definitely a sign of your & Mama Squirrel's parenting skills and that your not letting your concerns and fears affect poor little Mooselet. Stay strong - you're both wonderful.
I'm praying for you all and hope that things continue to improve and that the surgery solves the problem. Mooselet certainly deserves a break about now.
(((the Mooses))) 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
I don't know what I could say that I haven't said before, but you and yours are in my thoughts and in Juliette's.
Posted by littlemissattitude (Member # 4514) on :
(((mooselet))) (((superstation))) (((mama and pop)))
I'm sending all the good vibes I can muster up your way.
And, yeah, Pop, mid-80s is a bit excessive for early March, but not unheard of. If it's any comfort (and I'm sure it isn't) we're having unseasonably warm weather up here in the Valley, too. Was supposed to be 78 F today, and I'm sure it made at least that.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
(((meeses)))
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Mini-update, per request -- Mooselet's surgery schedule:
Pre-op with pediatrician, April 20th. Pre-op with orthopedist, April 26th. Pre-op with hospital, later on April 26th. Surgery, April 29th. Post-op with orthopedist, May 3rd.
For good measure, I scheduled in April 28th to get fitted for a crown to go over the molar on which I had root canal yesterday. You know, a little break in the monotony can be helpful. I'm thinking maybe the dentist can send me home with a free sample of nitrous oxide to use the next day. I know he gives free samples of dental floss -- this shouldn't be any different, right?
Anyway, there it is. I'm sure we'll update you all afterward, whether you want us to or not.
--Pop
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
Good luck, Papa Moose, and especially Mooselet. Poor baby.
Posted by The Digital Man (Member # 6427) on :
If he doesn't, Pop, isn't there some trick you can do with Whipped Cream Aerosols that has the same effect?
<prayers your way>
Posted by peterh (Member # 5208) on :
Best wishes to to the whole clan.
Fitting for a crown is pretty easy, from my experience. FWIW.
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
Oh man, Pop. At first glance I thought that all of those appointments WERE surgery. I was already crying before I could read the rest.
Posted by Kwea (Member # 2199) on :
Only if he can spare a few brain cells....
Papa (and the rest of the family): I hope it will all work out for him, and all of you. You are in my prayers, for what that is worth.....
Kwea
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Good to see you Pop, the occasion notwithstanding. We'll be thinking about you.
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
(((((Mooses)))))
Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
Pop, your surgery date is Rainbow's birthday. It'll be easy to remember to keep your family in my thoughts. (((Moose and Squirrel family)))
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Please give Mooselet a BIG HUG for me!
What a tough kid...
And his parents are so bad either.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Just a quick reminder for those who have shown interest -- Mooselet's surgery is in the morning. We'll report in once we know how it went, but at least one good report -- in the pre-op with the ortho, it was determined that at this time he only needs surgery on one foot, not both. Thanks again for all the love and support you've given us.
--Pop
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Thanks for the reminder, Pop. ~~~~~Meese~~~~~
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
I hope everything goes well tomorrow. Mooselet and your whole family will be in my prayers.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
~~~~Mooselet~~~~~ ~~~~~Mooselet's Dr.~~~~~ ~~~~~the whole family~~~~~
Posted by Zotto! (Member # 4689) on :
(((the Moose family)))
I'm praying for all of you, and hoping everything goes well. Papa, you and Mama are AMAZING. As is Mooselet for having to go through all this.
Posted by tt&t (Member # 5600) on :
(((((Moose family)))))
I hope everything goes ok. You're in my prayers.
(((((Moose family)))))
Posted by Beren One Hand (Member # 3403) on :
*Sending good vibes to Mooselet*
Remember, it is not cool to steal his jello.
(((Mooselet)))
Posted by zgator (Member # 3833) on :
Prayers coming your way.
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Just added a little prayer for Mooselet and his parents.
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
~~~~Moose Family~~~~
Posted by Ralphie (Member # 1565) on :
I'm eagerly awaiting an update on the surgery, Moose.
Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
I was thinking about you all this morning. Do let us know how it went.
Posted by Jim-Me (Member # 6426) on :
prayers said and sent.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Ok, we're home.
We planned to leave around 7:00 to arrive at the hospital by 7:30. We were a little late, but when the anesthesiologist called us last night, he said as long as we were there by 8:00 it would be fine. It was about 7:35-7:40.
Anyhoo, we checked in, then just waited in the waiting area for someone to take us up to pre-op. Mooselet spent this time wandering around the waiting area, and since this would be his last chance to walk freely for a while, we were fine with it. At one point, a nurse came out to get a different patient. When she came out the door, Mooselet pointed to her and informed us, "Mommy, Daddy! The nurse is here!" He then ran up to her and gave her a hug and a kiss. Thw whole waiting-room's worth of people chuckled and sighed, and the nurse said that he'd made her whole day.
So shortly thereafter, another nurse comes out to take us up to the pre-op room. We (Mooselet and I) got there right around 8:00, while Mama waited in the chairs down the hall with Superstation -- although both parents could be in there, the baby was a no-go. I answered a few questions, then the nurse asked me to write Mooselet's initials on his foot. For anyone who saw the episode of E.R. where Romano dealt with his injury, it was kind of like that. I actually asked if I should write "Not this one, idiot" on the other foot, but if they hadn't seen that episode, well, it wouldn't be quite as funny. I was also told to write on his foot, then after writing the first letter (in non-easily-washable purple ink) the nurse said it should be higher up the leg.
Now we're waiting for the anesthesiologist. Mooselet is playing with toys and watching T.V. I'd gotten up and looked out the door to see if anyone was coming -- the nurse saw this, asked if I was looking for my wife, then told me she was feeding the baby. Ok, that's fine. I had actually been looking for the anesthesiologist (I'm tired of typing that word, so from now on it's Dr. Ward). Fifteen or so minutes later, Mama comes in with Superstation -- I'd missed it, but the nurse who brought us up to the pre-op area told her that as long as Superstation was quiet it would be fine. Well, he was quiet.
It was a couple hours later when Dr. Ward finally got there. Shortly before that, one of the nurses had gotten a call from him, and was directed to give Mooselet a dose of versed -- we like to call it "the loopy drug." When the doc did get there, Mooselet's eyes were as glazed as a Krispy Kreme. He gave us the standard spiel (since this was Mooselet's eighth time under anesthesia, we're all pros now), and let us know he'd just be using a mask (a good thing, because last time Mooselet's throat didn't recover for a while).
Mooselet was ready to go, so off he went. We saw the surgeon (his ortho) on our way out, and he gave us a quick reminder of what he was going to do -- release the tendon behind the big toe so it wouldn't pull the foot in so much, and release the ligaments back by the arch of the foot. If after doing that it didn't appear to correct enough, he was going to cut the bones in the foot. Never quite clear what exactly that was supposed to do, other than make it better somehow.
Behind closed doors they went. Mama and I then headed down to the cafeteria to get something to eat. It's between breakfast and lunch, so there's not much there. We each opt for a cinnamon roll (big cinnamon rolls), and Mama got milk. I was going to get a flavored coffee milk foam cappucino-ish type thingy, but the machine was out. We sat down, I ate while Mama gave Superstation some cereal, then she ate while I gave him more cereal. Hungry kid. I asked someone about the coffee drink, they refilled the machine, and I got a cup to go. Then we headed back up to the waiting room where Superstation charmed everyone who saw him, and Mama and I read (she a Reader's Digest, I Crystal City).
They called my cell phone a little while later to let us know Mooselet was done -- medium-rare, I guess, because it didn't take too long. We headed up, but this time the rule was one parent only, so it was me again (woohoo!). He was already awake, and everyone said he'd been wonderful throughout. Of course shortly after I got there, he started to cry. *sigh* Not much, though -- a little whimpering, and he asked if I could please take the cast off now.
Doc came by. Nothing necessary with the bones (also good, because if the osteotomy had been necessary, it would have taken much longer and Mooselet would have needed an I.V.). I signed a couple papers, they pull the monitors off Mooselet (again crying, but not my fault this time), and gave him a teddy bear, on whom they put one of the monitor stickies. They loaded me into a wheelchair, and I carried Mooselet out while Mama pushed the stroller with Superstation in it. Mooselet cried and fussed much of the way home, but is now happily watching Toy Story 2. The local anesthetic will be wearing off soon, though, so it could still get bad. *crosses fingers, but gets ibuprofen ready*
All looks good so far. He's got the cast on one leg, but it's all below the knee. When the pain subsides he'll undoubtedly walk on it. We see the Doc for a follow-up in a week and a half (instead of the aforementioned four days), when he'll get a more permanent cast for the next five weeks -- one that fits better, not allowing the room for swelling that the current one does. After the cast comes off, he'll get new braces for both legs, which he'll wear for some undetermined amount of time.
Mooselet is still a little whimper-ey, but probably less than one might expect after something like this. I guess he's been through it so many times now that it's no big deal. Oh, they also sent us away with a list of instructions. They're numbered, and the nurse is supposed to circle the numbers that apply, but since some apply to nearly everyone she circled them before noting that he was only two years old. Thus, Mooselet: should not drive a vehicle for 24 hours; shouldn't operate any appliances or partake in activities that require reaction time (e.g., using the stove) for 24 hours; shouldn't smoke for 24 hours, but if he insists on smoking shouldn't do it alone; should not make judgment decisions for 24 hours; and, should have no alcohol for 24 hours.
All of these things are apparently ok tomorrow afternoon.
We suspicion he'll want/need a good deal of attention over the next few days, so my Hatracking time will be almost non-existent. I probably won't have time to do much more than check for responses to this thread and watch for landmarks that need to be added to the archiving list. I'm not ignoring you, though -- it's not you, it's me.
Might have left something out, but I spent too much time writing this already. If anyone has specific questions I can try to answer them. Appreciations again for all the good thoughts and prayers. Remember, those prayers can still work retroactively *smile*.
Oh, and happy birthday, Rainbow!
--Pop
Posted by Zotto! (Member # 4689) on :
*retroactive praying ensues*
Glad to hear it went well, Moose. Posted by tt&t (Member # 5600) on :
(((((Moose family))))) Posted by Ela (Member # 1365) on :
Glad to hear Mooselet's surgery went well.
Hugs and prayers from our house to yours.
Gee, I am surprised they only let one parent in at a time, when our kids had surgery, we both went into the recovery room every time (we went through surgeries with our kids a total of 3 times, in 2 different hospitals).
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Glad to hear it went well.
Mooselet is very fortunate to have the parents he does. Give yourselves a pat on the back, Mama and Pop.
(((((Meese)))))
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
(((Mooselet)))
He's an amazing kid. I hope the cast & braces aren't too much of a pain. At least he got by withtout the bone stuff...
Yeah!!!
Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
Rainbow says "sankoo".
I'm glad everything went so well this morning. And that's great news about not needing the osteotomy. I understand that adds time to the healing process and is fairly uncomfortable, at least as compared to a tenotomy (if that's what it's called). I can just imagine what a sweetheart of a kid Mooselet must be to ask, first thing, if you could please take the cast off now please.
((( Moose and Squirrel family )))
Posted by MaydayDesiax (Member # 5012) on :
(((Meeses)))
I'm glad to hear he's doing well, Pop.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
((((Mooselet))))
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
quote:All of these things are apparently ok tomorrow afternoon.
God Bless, Papa.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
All my best wishes go out to Mooselet and the rest of you family Pop.
quote: They called my cell phone a little while later to let us know Mooselet was done -- medium-rare, I guess, because it didn't take too long
Funny, endearing and clever - no wonder the Meeses are Hatrack Treasures.
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
Praying, retroactively and...proactively (?).
The Meeses are, indeed, treasures. As usual, imogen is right on the money.
*hugs the Meeses, Mooselet most gently*
Posted by littlemissattitude (Member # 4514) on :
Glad things went well - Mooselet is highly thought of in our house, even though we've never met. My mom is especially fond of the picture of Mooselet and all those post-it notes.
Anyway, sending good thoughts for a quick recovery.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I was thinking about y'all yesterday and I'm so glad that Mooselet's surgery went well. I wish him a speedy recovery!
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
![[Smile]](smile.gif)
![[Group Hug]](graemlins/grouphug.gif)
![[Frown]](frown.gif)
I'm so sorry to hear that little Carl is facing more uncertain problems. I can't imagine what you and Squirrel must be going through. I'll be praying for all of you. Please continue to keep all of us updated on how things go. John 14:8![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
at Bob)![[Wink]](wink.gif)
) Those reports have to cover everything in today's sue happy world. If you are concerned you can mention that you were unsure about future surgery and can he clarify. Stay strong and have faith. I am sure the Lord has your family in his hands and is helping you.
![[Cry]](graemlins/cry.gif)
![[Blushing]](graemlins/blushing.gif)
![[Cool]](cool.gif)
![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
)![[Party]](graemlins/party.gif)
![[The Wave]](graemlins/thewave.gif)