12.08.2008

Details (no holds barred)

For those of you that don't know the details, Finn has pneumonia that has escalated dramatically. He was admitted to the hospital Friday night after 7 days of being terribly sick at home (and improper medical advice). Yesterday they operated on his left lung to remove a bunch of gunk from the cavity surrounding the lung (basically fluid in the lung leaks out and turns to pus). It's called a VATS procedure. Video Assisted Thorasic Surgery. If you have a strong stomach you can look into the condition/procedure. Even though they were able to "clean him out," he still has the pneumonia in his lung. He had to have the surgery to give the lung room enough to expand again and fight the infection. He is completely sedated in the Pediatric ICU for the next 2 days. From here they'll move him to the pediatric wing to recover for two weeks. There they will be treating him for the actual pneumonia, and monitoring his progress after surgery. Then it's six months before he's FULLY recovered 100%.

He is continuing to remain stable, has had successful blood/plasma transfusions to help keep his hemoglobin up, and is on ventilator assisted breathing. It's a hard thing for all of us to endure. But tomorrow they hope to start slowly bringing him back to consciousness. He's already wiggling his toes. :) We are staying positive! My parents came in to help. We've already had so much support and love. Thanks to everyone for your continued prayers. I know Finn feels them, and so do we.

Just a few things to remember:
1. If your child has a cough/trouble breathing, don't hesitate to take them in to the doctor.
2. (the important part) If it's pneumonia, be AGRESSIVE with your care provider making sure every aspect has been taken care of (repeat X Rays, if necessary, take them in for frequent visits, and call to check in with your doctor often--be annoying).
3. Trust your gut instinct. An expenive ER copay is worth it, whether it results in reassurance or treatment. It's best to be safe during this season.
4. Make sure you have a pediatrician you trust and feel good about. If you have the slightest misgivings, get a new doctor now! You never know when a fluke infection will come up.
5. Fill up your spiritual reserves. :) It comes in handy when the weight is so unbearable that it's the only thing bearing you up. I've relied heavily on the prayers and positive thinking of myself and others. And I'm so thankful for that.

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Shorty said...

Oh my gosh, what you guys are going through. I don't know what to say other than I appreciate you sharing your experience with me. I've said a few prayers this morning as you guys float thru my mind...more will definitely be coming your way!

Babeich said...

We are all sending prayers your way!! (Amy, Jenn, Scott, Bryan, and me)

Nichole said...

Oh my gosh Lyndsay!
I'm sending you all my positive vibes and well wishes for a quick and speedy recovery for sweet little Finn.

KatieJ said...

Wow- I can't believe how quick that got so bad! I hope Finn wakes up soon and gets better quickly, that is pretty scary.

stephanie said...

guy, lyndsay, that is so crazy. there are a lot more prayers headed your way. poor little adorable finn.

Jessica said...

We are praying for little Finn...please let us know if there is anything we can do! Love Jess and Rome

O'Loughlin Family said...

Hey Johnsons - Just wanted to let you know that your family has been in our thoughts and prayers

Kelly said...

Lyndsay,
I randomly popped in to see what you have been up to. (I have been loving all the work you did for me.) I am so sorry to hear about your nightmare you have been going through. I will keep Finn and your family in my prayers.

April Kennedy said...

Lyndsay,
That was tough news to read. I am so sorry. I hope Finn, now with the proper care, will make a quicker recovery than predicted and all the prayers will blow the doctors away. Keeping our fingers crossed you guys are home by Christmas.

From experience, the PICU is a special place. It will become like family to you...at least with some of the nurses. I think anytime someone is responsible and takes care of our babies..we feel forever grateful. We still go to our hospital's annual Halloween party for the NICU/PICU patients to see ours/Blake's favorite nurses most years.

Hang in there and know that we are praying for your little family and Finn.

Anonymous said...

Don't know you, just wanted to see your cute banners....but absolutely will be praying tonight for your whole sweet family.

Emily Ruth said...

So sorry. We are praying for you guys--and sweet little Finn.
Luvs,
Childers

gina said...

WOW! Poor little guy. I'm glad your parents are there to help. You and your family will be in our prayers. Much Love-G

Lybi said...

Prayers and positive thoughts are underway for little Finn over here! Thanks so much for the update. I know you must really have your hands full. ((Hugs))

Also, I have a desire to give your pediatrician a good dope-slapping. But don't worry, I'll restrain myself.

Ginger John said...

Your positive outlook is quite inspiring Lyndsay. You are one strong Mama. Hugs-G

Laura said...

That was hard to read..Little Finn...Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys! I agree with Ginger..You are one tough Momma! We'll be praying! Thanks for the advice too...definetely listening to my gut instincts if I don't trust what the doctor says.

MIMOM2 said...

I am so glad that you were able to catch it in time. How heart wrenching. Our thoughts and prayers are definitely with you. Thanks so much for sharing the intimate details.