One week Post-op

It was yet another frinterish (fall/winter) gloomy day in Michigan as Vanessa and I were driving to Channing’s palace today.  Vanessa and I were listening to the radio, and were reminded of something very important about life--life changes.  The song, "Life Changes," sung by Thomas Rhett, came on and once it started, Vanessa and I looked at each other agreeing to the lyrics and shared a smile.  In part of the chorus, the lyrics go like this, "Ain’t it funny how life changes, you wake up, ain’t nothing the same and life changes...you make your plans and you hear God laughing.  Life changes, and I (we) wouldn’t change it for the world."  A strong connection has been made to this song as we have been granted this life change, and would not change it for the world.
Channing had surgery one week ago, it is amazing how much strength this little Superman has shown us.  He continues to be treated for peritonitis with antibiotics within the dialysis fluid that is going in the suspected space where the infection may be; the peritoneum.  Cultures have come back negative, but his white blood count is still elevated which has puzzled most of his care team.  His pain management continues to change as his entire care team learns what his needs are.  Since he speaks in different tones of cry’s and winces, the nurses as well as his mom and dad have learned some cues.  His dialysis fluid was changed this afternoon to a higher concentration--higher sugar content.  This, in theroy, is supposed to draw more fluid/toxins from his blood (to make "urine") off of him than what he was originally started with.  He started with a sugar concentration of 1.5 percent.  Today a peritoneal dialysis bag of 2.5 percent of sugar was hung.  These are big, BIG bags, I believe they are heavier and larger than baby boy Channing.  The two concentrations are combined at 15 milliliters a piece for a final concentration of 2 percent sugar... Confused yet?
After hearing our anthem of "Life Changes," Vanessa and I walked into some amazing "changes" today.  He was off the CPAP machine that was assisting with his breathing, essentially a diploma from a breathing tube down his trachea. AND.. he was less swollen.  Especially around his face where much of his retained fluid remains... we are slowly becoming to know our baby boy’s face and cannot wait until he can open his eyes.  Vanessa stated her Christmas wish today.  Her wish is that his peritonitis is resolved and for Channing to be able to open up his eyes.  We have 22 days left and believe we are riding the "Polar Express" train to that successful wish; I BELIEVE.  One wish granted last night was a room with a window.  It helps to be buddy buddy with his amazing care team.

Another huge moment occurred today, Vanessa’s dad "Bumpa" was graciously able to hold his grandson for the first time.  We wouldn’t change this moment for the world.