18-6-2009 - Just Pray

My mood while writing this blog: Sad

We spent last evening at the hospital. Not for me. (Which I say very selfishly.) But for my husbands niece. She is only 16 months old. She was at home playing with her daddy and grandpa when all of a sudden she started coughing and then began to turn blue. Grandpa called 911 while daddy started CPR. All of the local ambulances where out so first responders were the local police. They took over CPR while everyone stood back helplessly watching. When the EMT's arrived they were finally able to get her pulse back. The worked on her for a while in the rig. When they got her to the hospital they couldn't get an airway. (My husband and I rushed to be with our family by her bedside.) It was touch and go all night. Finally they made a decision to give her a trake. Then she wouldn't breath on her own so she was placed on a ventalator. After all of this they transferred her to C.H.O.P. and when she arrived there she had a fever of 106. (My husband and I stayed behind because of my own medical issues and concern for the health of the baby growing in my belly.) Poor little angel. C.H.O.P. Has now desided to keep her in a medically induced coma until Monday (this will keep her from waking and trying to pull out her trake) at which time they will start running more test. Mom and dad were told that she has pnemonia which stemmed from a common cold virus. But are not convinced that this is what caused her to turn blue. She is strong and fighting. The doctors informed her parents this morning that because her father started CPR right away they believe she will recover completely without any loose of brain function. Which is very hopeful. If everything goes smoothly, Lord willing, she will only have to stay in the hospital for 10 days. Which I know is extremely optomistic. I am trying to stay positive. But we all know that somedays are better then others when it comes to positivity. We are all praying for her.

I wanted to tell you all this for two reasons. First is because the family could use all the prayers they can get right now. And second, I wanted to spread the word that I believe all parents should learn CPR. It may be just the very thing that saved her little life. I am certified and have been since High School I have never had to use it on my own child before (Thank God) but after what happened yesterday I am so glad I know it.