Mon 01/12/09 - - Team Ava Welcomes Sophia

The irritation that we were concerned about on Ava's leg had vanished. Infectious Disease believed it was a type of contact rash.

Before Ava could begin on Captopril a renal ultrasound was scheduled for Tuesday to ensure there was nothing to worry about in regards to Ava's fluctuating blood pressure.

One of the residents expressed a concern about further increasing Ava's feeds without a good bowel movement (there was no rhyme or reason to when and if Ava had one), so for now, the plan was to increase up to 17cc per our and remain on the IV maintenance fluids, but only at a low amount. Glycerin suppositories were to be used if Ava still could not produce a quality bowel movement or became uncomfortable.

Another discussion, this time with the cardiologist centered with Ava possibly going to a half-way location in Shaker Heights. The belief is that it was not necessary for Ava to remain at the Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, but would still be in a place that is close and where she could be monitored.

Team Ava was not really comfortable with this suggestion as a possible course of action in her recovery. What really stood out in our minds is that at a place like Shaker, Ava would be mixed in with other children recovering from various illnesses and the risk for her immune system coming in contact with a foreign body would be too high. Our stance - - Ava stays until she is ready to go home (if only clicking our heels would get us there....). The Infectious Disease team shares the same belief, so we are confident that it is the best course of action for Ava.

The results from the contents of Ava's stomach from the previous day came back positive for blood which was a little puzzling since subsequent stomach aspirations have been okay. We are going to continue to monitor any aspirations at this point.

The highlight of the day was that Team Ava gained another supporter, and Ava gained a friend. Sophia Anne Collins was born today, weighing in at 8 lbs, 6.4 ounces with a length of 20 inches. We would like to extend our congratulations to Sarah and Sean and to let everyone know that Sophia can be followed at her blog : http://sophiacollins.blogspot.com.