SICK SICK SICK

Hey everyone. Who would have thought that everybody getting sick would bring me back to the blog. Life at our house is always crazy and there is never enough time keep up with the things you would like to...like the blog. Anyway, now that I have some sick babies and I'm struggling to sleep...I thought it would be a good idea to make a post. Preston, Claire, and Griffin are all currently in Oklahoma Children's Hospital. Preston was admitted on Aug. 21st. He was admitted with a problem called HUS. You'll have to look it up and read about it...to sum it up in a nut shell...it's a problem that occurs when you come in contact with E-coli. We still are not sure where or when that happened and if Preston actually got it and gave it to Claire and Griffin or what. The toxin that E-coli produces attacks your red blood cells causing them to burst. This causes your blood level to go down and it also causes your kidneys to fail. The kidneys can't filter busted up red blood cells very well and therefore the kidneys tend to get plugged. It's a terrible cycle. The kids have received numerous blood transfusions and platelets. Their kidneys are hanging in there. All their kidney levels are elevated but no one is in need of dialysis. It's a long process. It can last for a week or up to two months. I really feel Preston has turned the corner. If we can keep his blood levels up and get him to eating again then he'll be able to go home. Claire is just holding her own right now. She has a way to go but I think she'll be quickly behind Preston. Griffin...is another story. He has really taken this hard. His blood levels are poor and his kidney function is down. He's unable to keep anything down...even water. All of the kiddos get meds for nausea and meds to keep their blood pressure down. They are currently receiving TPN. This is a IV nutrition to help build their strength and to keep them nourished until they start eating again and holding food down. Carson is still at home. He's doing great so far. He has lab drawn every other day to monitor his levels. So far so good. Physically he's great..Emotionally he's a WRECK! He doesn't have any idea where everybody went and he has no clue as to why he's at home alone and wasn't able to go. Parker has been staying with some friends of ours and Friday he came up here to stay the weekend. He's feeling fine too. If you have time...please say a prayer for us. We could really use it. This has been a crazy adventure...one that I never expected and one that I never want to REPEAT! For those of you that are already praying...THANK YOU! Rick and I both want to say "Thanks" for all the prayers, support, hospital visits, food, work at the house, and goodies. The kids love the toys and we love all the snacks. We will keep you posted on our progress. Love, Jenn