Friday, March 5, 2010

The ER

Motherhood has introduced me to a unique depth of desperation for the sustaining presence of Almighty God.

For those of you who have not heard, we've had an eventful few days. Thursday night I awoke at 1am to the sound of Jonah gasping for breath. I turned on the light to find him (and his bed) covered in vomit. Shocking to say the least. I immediately called my mother who came over and offered assistance through the night and subsequent day (thank God!). . . 13 (heart-wrenching) episodes and 3 calls to the on-call pediatrician later, we decided to take Jonah to the ER. While checking in, he threw up bile, which was an indication to me that we had done the right thing.

After 6 1/2 hours in the examining room and several tests they determined that Jonah had a double ear infection and a UTI/kidney infection (causing the vomiting). They sent us home with an anti-nausea med and an antibiotic. The vomiting ceased until he fell asleep last night. Something about his sleep position, I guess, upset his stomach. . . Thank goodness for anti-nausea meds. He has been rejecting liquids and solids but fortunately nursing very well (around the clock) which has prevented dehydration.

The pediatrician requested to see him this afternoon. His ears are already clear of infection, but he is still suffering from symptoms associated with the UTI. Our pediatrician said that only 2% of children under the age of 2 are diagnosed with a UTI and 40% of those have a valve defect between their bladder and kidneys (vesicoureteral reflux) that must be repaired with surgery. An ultrasound of Jonah's kidneys will be ordered upon the completion of the prescribed 10-day round of antibiotics to determine whether or not this is the underlying cause of his infection.

Please keep us in your prayers. We believe in the power of Almighty God to relieve and heal our son and are grateful for the hope and peace we have in Him!

These pictures were taken in the ER. . . I have been astounded by Jonah's strength in sickness from birth to present. The things that would (and do) cause me (a 27 year old woman) to crumble, he handles with strength and grace. He rarely even cries when sick. It never ceases to amaze me!

4 comments:

Unknown said...

I am so thankful that Jonah is ok! I know how it feels to take a trip to the ER..we've done it twice. But it's better to be safe than sorry. I am praying that he heals and doesn't have this problem again! We love you guys!

Lisa said...

Jessica, we will be praying that this is just a random infection & that there are no underlying problems. Children are really amazing...what causes us to fall apart they just take in stride! We love you guys & will keep you in our prayers.

Adrian said...

What a prelude to such an already eventful weekend! I agree with you on the THANK GOODNESS for close-by moms. My mom has come over many times to ease my nerves, anxiety, and assist when Cole's been sick. We never get too old for mama to take care of us :)

We'll be praying for Jonah and that this 10 day round of meds does the trick. What a Mighty God we serve!

*I'm assuming the party is still on for tomorrow. . . try to get some rest today!

Cassi Wolski said...

So sorry little Jonah hasn't been filling well. We will be lifting you guys up in prayer for fast healing and clear test results. Please let us know if you all need anything. Lots of Love!!!