Gavin Christopher Owens » July 2007 Journal Entries » AboutMyBaby - online baby scrapbooks, photo albums, videos, birth and pregnancy announcements

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Sat, Jul 28, 2007 10:39 AM
******Please Pray******

Our friend Ally just got her call for transplant! It's been a long time coming and she really needs this to work for her. I believe (not positive) she is getting a small bowl, stomach, liver and pancreas. They are on their way to Pittsburgh now.

Comments:
Lisa and Michael Walk: Our prayers are with you all! Congrats on your babbling Gavin! Keep up the good work!

Pastor and Liz: That's great news! We will be praying for Ally and Gavin while we are away. Your are close to our hearts!

dawn: WOW-- LORD you have provided....now please show up in that room and make these new organs for Ally become her own...and may they give her NEW LIFE!

Mary Alice Carpenter: Prayers on their way to heaven for Ally. Continued prayers for all of you on their way too.

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Fri, Jul 27, 2007 10:57 AM
Well we have been home one week now and it's been a rather busy week as far as Gavin goes. Early in the week Gavin's central line clotted off, which sent us to the ER to have fixed. Thankfully there was a nurse at Pottstown who was willing to try to fix it. A few nights later Gavin decided to go hypothermic on us and drop his heart rate. He gave me a real scare as we have not heard his heart rate alarm go off is quite awhile. After paging the doctor he reassured us that he was ok and just needed to be warmed up. After a few hours under his warmer he was able to bring his heart rate up!

Gavin has been really struggling with his feeds and belly distension. Last night he surprised me with some projectile vomiting! fun! I try to remind myself that he did just get over a blood infection so I'm trying to be patient with his belly and not push him too hard.

His liver numbers are still elevated and the less he takes through his J tube the more his liver will feel the effects of the TPN. I hope too get him back up to his previous rate this week.

Last night was our Nurse Kathy's last night of her almost 2 month run with us. She will be back but not every night like she has been. She has taken so much stress off of me and we are eager to find another nurse to take the days she will not be here.

Madison has been very busy lately testing the limits both hers our ours! We are so blessed with a sweet, intellegent and verbal little girl. Even though at times I want to pull my hair out I try to be thankful for her perfect health and her ability to be a wild two-year-old!

Oh I almost forget the great news.... Gavin started babbling ba ba ba yesterday! This is a huge deal for Gavin as this is something that he was able to do back in December but then lost that ability. He is so proud of himself! We are too!!!

Comments:
Jess: I am glad to here he is babbling again. Now he and melina can have a conversation!

The Rich Family: We have been praying for you and now know to pray spec. for a nurse.

Mike & Lisa (Sholly) McManus: Our prayers have been with you and your family for quite some time and we will continue to pray for you! Gavin is such a sweet looking young man! And his big sister is beautiful! GOD BLESS you two for all your struggles and I pray HE keeps sending strength to you! Love, Lisa & Mike

Evy: It was great to see everyone last weekend. I enjoying see Gavin and Madi interact with each other and their cousins. I will pray that this week is a better for you. I know how happy you must be for the babbling. I've been there. Willy seems to never stop some days. Love you. Evy

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Sat, Jul 21, 2007 6:33 PM
Yes...We are home! Things to keep praying for are: decreased liver numbers, stabilized blood sugars, temp issues, no fevers and for Gavi to tolerate his feeds. Oh and you can throw his hemoglobin in there as well!

We wouldn't be able to do this without you! Thanks for your love and support.

Adam and Karen

Comments:
the gardners: Hey guys... it was fun to see you all in the giant parking lot and to finally meet little the little man who is in our prayers! Thankfully God is so strong and always right on time for everything! Welcome home Gavin!

The Marculo Family: Praise God!
May God give you hope and renew you this week!
We'll be praying for you!

Martha: I just found your site today and will be praying steadfastly for Gavin and your family. I came across a prayer card just moments before that says,

Jeff & Debbie Seymour: HOLD FAST by Mercy Me. Hold Fast, help is on the way. What I've learned in my life, one thing greater than my strife is His grasp, so hold fast. Hold fast, Gavin, and see the salvation of your God! Peace and Healing to the whole family!!

Jeff & Debbie Seymour: God must have quite a future for Gavin!! I think of the song

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Thu, Jul 19, 2007 10:40 AM
Unfortunately Gavin will need to be transfused today. We have him a chance to do it on his own and it did look like he was going to be able to pull it up but this morning he dropped quite low again.

Gavin's liver numbers are also quite elevated, in fact one of them doubled just from yesterday. They are going to do some additional blood work. His doc said that it didn't look like it was from the TPN but rather an inflammation of the liver. As most people know and are quick to poke fun of my wealth of medical knowledge....this time I'm just confused. Hopefully things will calm down on their own once he gets off the additional meds and fluid.

Gavin continues to look like a small sumo wrestler and I was told that the transfusion might help him get rid of some of the fluid he is retaining.

We should be coming home but I'm not holding on to that. We are still waiting on the additional bug to to be identified to make sure he is on the correct antibiotic.

Hopefully my next entry will be from home.

Comments:
Gram & Pop C: Hi Kids, Just wanted you to know that while we are not home, we are keeping tabs on our little man. We pray constantly for a miricle and for yours and Adams peace of mind. we love you all,keep on keeping . love gram and PopC

Matthew and Amy: I wish we could see Gavin looking like a sumo wrestler! Its a shame that its mostly water retention. Hopefully the doctors can figure out what's going on so that Gavin can improve enough to be discharged soon. Love the videos by the way.

Jill Heintz: Karen,

So sorry that I have not written in so long but I have been keeping up on Gavin's site plus he and your family are always in our prayers. I was at duPont twice this week with Ally. Monday I didn't stop in because Ashley had been sick on Sunday. Today I didn't stop in because we had such a bad day that I don't think I would have been any comfort to you. Please let me know if you need anything or if you just need someone to vent to who understands where you are coming from...

Take care, we will say some extra prayers tonight for your nursing coverage at home and pray that you get to come home tomorrow.

Jill

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Wed, Jul 18, 2007 12:14 PM
Well we are not coming home today... They still do not know about the growth from the 16th's culture but they feel we need to have one more negative culture just to be safe.

Gavin's sugars have become so out of control that they have decided to place him on a dextrose IV for the time he is not on TPN. This really stinks because it means that he will always have his line hooked up. It's a real inconvenience not to mention safety risk (pulling in out) but we will do what is best for Gavin. I'm pretty bummed at this point and I'm just frustrated that during the time that Gavin seems to be doing so well he is now having these other serious issues.

I try to remember all of your encouraging words and I'm trying to stay positive that Gavin will continue to be happy and that's all that matters.

Tonight Adam and Madi are coming, I miss them a lot and I think Gavin does as well :)

Comments:
jess: I can't imagine how frustrated u are! hang in there and remember that some day this will all be just a memory! God is good and will bless you all. Amen!!!

Shaun & Angela: We are continuing to stand with you and your entire family. I can't imagine how weary you are, but I know that you receive your strength from God. Please keep journaling...it lets us know how specific we can pray!

Pastor and LIz: We're so sorry that you are facing this. We hope you can sense the prayer support and love in the midst of this battle. I'm so glad you are journaling your thoughts. We continue to pray!

Fava Family: Praying that God will heal Gavin of his infections and allow all of you to go home together as a family. God has brought Gavin this far and we know that he will not turn his back on him now. Strong faith and the continued prayers, love and support from everyone who loves Gavin will get all of you through this just as it has in the past. We will continue to pray for you, Adam and Madi as well and are glad that you will all be together today.

debbie: It is so hard when our feelings aren't lining up with our faith! I will be praying especially for you tonight, Karen. You are blessed and He is good! Enjoy your visit! Evan talks back to Gavin on the video!

Mary Alice Carpenter: Remember the things that we want most in life sometimes take a while to happen. Hang in there...better days ahead. Smile and enjoy Adam and Madi. I know Gavin will be giggling seeing Daddy and big sister. God bless you all. Lots of hugs coming your way.

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Wed, Jul 18, 2007 8:53 AM
Life Stinks!!! Well, at least the moment I'm pretty upset with life. We were hoping for discharge today and then found out that another culture came back positive for a different infection. I'm waiting to hear what is going on and this is the most frustrating part of being here...waiting!

Yesterday Gavin had a liver ultrasound due to his numbers being up and also his liver is enlarged. The ultrasound didn't really show much other than an enlarged liver. For those who don't know or forget, the IV nutrition (TPN) that Gavin is dependent on is very toxic for the liver and we have been very lucky that he has not had any major problems thus far. We are hoping that his numbers will come down and that he will be one of the few who can live on TPN with no complications!

Ya know, some friends that we know from here once wrote in their daughter's site that they don't believe they are leaving until they are actually walking out the door. I think that's probably a good thinking to follow. I do this every time and almost every time something else comes up that keeps us here longer and then I just end up bitter and mad.

Hopefully I will have better news later to update with.

Comments:
Randy & Marilyn: OK, KNOW WE'RE PRAYING :-) must be my computer!

RANDY & MARILYN: Let's try again :-) ...as our note didn't totally go through. It's ok to feel frustrated! Know that in those times, you have a

Randy & Marilyn`: Karen & Adam: We're so sorry that things are so frustrating right now for you. And it 's ok to let your feelings out!! We hope it helps to know you have a

The Rich Family: What can we say. We probably would feel the same way. It's ok to feel that way. Trying to change the expectation thing may turn those feelings around. Gavin is a fighter and you can lean on God's plan for you. I wish we could say what that is and why all of you need to be going thru this. Hi Madi. Be extra good for mommy and daddy. Remember to give them lots of hugs.

Linda and Irv: Karen, No great words of wisdon, just we love you and we are all praying for you here. We will continue to pray for complete healing and peace that surpasses all understanding. Blessings!

Terri & Bruce: Karen...you are right..there is nothing worse than thinking you're coming home and then don't. We will continue to pray for you for strength and for HEALING for Gavin...we love you guys...Terri & Bruce

Debbie: Ugh! Sorry to hear about this latest series of frustrations. Thanks for being transparent! Praying for more miracles to arrive soon!

Matthew and Amy: You are probably right about changing your expectations so that you don't get as upset if they aren't met. I don't blame you at all though for hating the hospital at this point. It should never be your home away from home. Hey, how did gavin do with pulling up his own hemoglobin without a transfusion? We will continue to pray for you and the family and a speedy discharge.

Kirsten Yarnall: Hey guys-hang in there. I can feel your frustration through the computer. Life does stink sometimes-no doubt-the upside is that you are not sitting in the stench of life alone. The Lord is sitting right beside you. Stroking your back, holding your hand and giving you a shoulder to lean on when you need it. Sometimes when you are in the middle of things and you are so disappointed with life-you forget that you have a partner there with you. Sometimes you just don't feel His presence and you wonder where He is. He's there. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus says, 'Come to Me, all of you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' Find your rest and peace in the Lord who is the giver of all good things. We will continue to pray for you in our home and will keep you in our hearts. God Bless.

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Tue, Jul 17, 2007 7:23 AM
Not much new to report. We found out that Gavin's blood cultures grew from both his line and his arm stick so that makes it a bit more difficult to treat but he is still looking good. I think we are going to try to hold off on giving him blood and see if he can pull his hemoglobin up on his own. When anyone receives a transfusion they stop making blood for about 3 weeks and for someone like Gavin who doesn't make a lot of blood to begin with it can cause a cycle of needing additional transfusions. Gavin is doing pretty well right now and I'm hopeful that he can do it on his own.

His sugars are still a concern as went very low again last night. They sent labs out while his sugar was low to check that his body is responding appropriately to the low sugar.

Gavin had IV fluids all day yesterday and as a result he is quite puffy this morning! He's happy as ever and are looking forward to coming home soon!

Comments:
The Derricks: Hi guys, we are sorry to hear that Gavin missed his friends at Dupont, that he made you take him back for a visit. He looks so great in the videos!!! What a joy he is to everybody! Hey Madi! What a cute Dr. you are! And, what a good Dr.! You remember to wash your hands before you see your patient!!! Impressive!!! We love you guys. We pray for you every day!!! Love, Aunt Pat, Uncle Don, Amanda, and Melissa

The Marculo Family: What a rocky road!But we'll continue to pray and believe for a powerful healing!
May God touch little Gavin and heal him with His mighty power!Amen!
God bless you!

Mary Alice Carpenter: I hear a very positive tone in your update!!! You are an amazing family and God will be there when you ask. Gavin being happy is part of who he is. Draw strength from his great smile. Prayers and thoughts from the Carpenter's will continue everyday.

Theresa Decker: Karen,
I am ever amazed at your positive outlook. You and Adam are awesome. You are in our hearts and prayers today. Gavin is such a little fighter. Our love,
John and Theresa

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Mon, Jul 16, 2007 4:30 AM
We just got word that the blood culture that was taken at Pottstown hospital came back with growth, meaning that he has another central line infection. Also this morning the lab called up to let Gavin's nurse know that his hemoglobin has dropped to a critical level. I don't know why that happened...I'm not even going to try to give a logical answer. Most likely he will be transfused.

The next step is to wait for the lab to identify the species of gram positive coxi. He then will be started on the proper antibiotic and hopefully kick this thing.

Will update later. I'm tired... Gavin had a bad night as he could not maintain his temp what so ever and his alarms were going off ALL NIGHT LONG!

Comments:
Randy & marilyn: Good Evening, Adam & Karen: Hope your day went well. Praying for strength for you guys. Trusting Gavin is resting and will have a better night tonight than last night. Hang in there!

The Rich Family: We are sad with you and will continue to pray for your family. Gavin KICK THIS THING BUDDY Try to keep up your spirits. Walt sandy and family

Bill & Ruby Wilson: OWENS FAMILY, WE KNOW THIS BEEN A ROCKY ROAD=WE JUST KEEP PRAYING!

John & Susan: We are praying that the Lord will step into this situation and work a miracle. We all know that God's hand is on Gavin and his entire family.

Mary Alice Carpenter: God Bless!!!! We are so sorry to hear Gavin once again has a set back. Our prayers continue that he recovers quickly and you can get some rest at home. I pray for strength for all of you.

Lisa and Michael: So sorry to hear Gavin is back in the hospital. Keep up your spirits, you are all in our prayers! Kick this infection quick Gavi, Mom's tired and wants to be home with you again! And no more burning the grilled cheese buddy ;o) Love you all. --Lisa, Michael and Josiah

Linda Soto: Gavin continues to be in my prayers daily, just as you both are. (along with Maddie). Keep leaning on the strength of the Lord, for he truely is faithful. Also praying for rest for you both. Your two awesome parents, and you demonstrate the strength and grace of the Lord. Praying Peace, Strength, Rest, Joy, and Complete Restoration of Gavin's organs, In Jesus Name!!

Iya H: Argh!!! Satan is such a loser... just wanted you to know that we also are joining in prayer for total healing, peace and joy for Gavin, and the rest of your family!

Matthew and Amy: Hey guys, we're sorry to hear that Gavin's back at Dupont when it seemed like things were going so well. We're praying for Gavin and your family. Looking forward to the next update.

Rusty, Teri and Josh: Owens Family,
We are praying for all of you! We are praying for answers, insight by the doctors, and quick healing by the power of the Blood of Jesus.

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Sun, Jul 15, 2007 4:22 PM
Gavin was admitted to duPont this afternoon with a high fever. Please pray that this will be a short stay. Please pray as well for Gavin's sugars to regulate, as they have been ranging from 27 to 310.

I will update when we know more. For know we just have to wait for his blood cultures to come back.

Comments:
The Rich Family: we will keep your family lifted in prayer.

Randy & Marilyn: We're praying!

Betsy Barz: You will be in our prayers, as you always are, hopefully this is just a bump in the road....i am praying for nursing care for you i know how important that is for your whole family. You both are wonderful parents and are doing a great job with madison and gavin.

AVa: We love you. I will pray for you this week...and will ask my grandmom to check this site while mommy is at camp to keep us updated.

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Tue, Jul 3, 2007 1:21 PM
This past week Gavin has been doing very well. His weight has started to go up and he has been for the most part happy. He is having some issues maintaining his blood sugar but we are working on a solution to that issues. We are adding a few hours to his TPN as well as increasing the calories. His tube feeding continues to be problematic but I am really trying to push the rate as much as he will tolerate.

We are planning a trip to the beach this weekend and we all are looking forward to some fun time as a family. We are just loving being together are watching the bond form between Madi and Gavin. She is such a good big sister and really watches out for him.

This morning I had a reality check when Madison was helping me change Gavin's central line dressing. I was asking her to hold Gavin's arms for me and she was doing good for awhile but then she started to let go. I was getting frustrated and I started to get upset...then I had a moment. Here is my 2 year old helping me do a procedure that nurses train 4 year to do. Go figure! Needless to say I was forced to have grace on her and just allow her to be 2 and not 26 with a 4 year degree.

If there are any pediatric nurses looking for work we are in great need for help. Right now our nurse has been working 7 nights a week and this will go back to only 3 nights next week.

Although we know many people are willing to help, we are looking for individuals that actaully want a JOB thought out nursing agency and who are qualified to care for Gavin's complex medical needs.

The agency is willing to train if you do not have pediatric experience. Please contact the agency directly if you have any questions or are interested in the position. The hours we need are 10pm to 5am.

Harleysville Pediatric Home Care
215-513-7455
Ask for Eileen as she is Gavin's Case Manager.

Have a Happy 4th of July!

Comments:
The Gardners: I love your 4th of July photos-- the big duck was a huige hit with Noah too! We are praying for God to send you a great nurse! Hope you had fun at the beach!

Terri & Bruce: Praying for a nurse as well. Great news that you will be going to the beach for the weekend...Have a wonderful time. Karen, you are a GREAT MOM. Not many could do what you are doing. GOD BLESS YOU GUYS...Love Ya...Terri and Bruce

Jess Panaccion: Karen i forwarded this to my sister who is a nurse and has a bunch of friends who are pediatric nurses, so I told her to have them forward it to there friends who are pediatric nurses as well. Hopefully one of them can help out. Have a great weekend at the beach and we will continue to pray for Gavin and some more nurses! God is Great!!!

Lauren & kids: I hope you guys find a nurse! I also hope you have a great time at the beach! Give the kids kisses from Jordan and Lucy!

Angela Fava: Karen & Adam,
I have sent out several e-mails this morning to friends of mine who are currently working as RN's. Can EMT/Paramedics be considered as well. Just let me know. I will continue to pray for Gavin and your family. Enjoy your weekend at the beach. Happy 4th!

Angela Fava

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