I’ll have more details after rounds, but it appears that Tyler does NOT have a new lung infection – he has had no new fevers and no new lung secretions. The fever and the increased secretions can likely be attributed to the switch to the APRV vent. Also, Tyler is actually doing better on the oscillator now than he was the day they decided to switch him to APRV. All but one of his settings are lower than they were two days ago. Even though they said it could take weeks, the trapped air in his neck is already dissipating on the lower settings (but not on his sides and abdomen). The swelling in his eyes has gone down enough to finally allow him to close his eyes. It was kind of disconcerting to see him lie there with his eyes open, and I’m sure it wasn’t comfortable for him, either. Also, he is still off the paralytic, despite being back on the oscillator. It’s best for him to be off the paralytic, but he is showing some signs of trying to breathe against the vent, so he may need to go back on. If we learn more during rounds, I’ll post again. Despite still being on the oscillator, Tyler’s overall picture is looking better!
Tyler would be amazed to know this, but he inspired one of his best friends to write a song for him. Last week, when we thought Tyler was near death, his 16-year-old friend Natalie visited Tyler to say goodbye to him and then wrote lyrics and music about the experience. If you click on this link (or copy and paste into your browser), you can hear Natalie perform, “The Words that Matter Most.” A very talented young girl! Ron and I keep learning that Tyler isn’t just incredibly special to us, but to so many others he’s obviously touched in his 15 years. http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/12260089