Friday, February 8, 2008

A quick update....

We made it over to the appointment with Dr. Smith at St. Jude's. What a marvelous place. Everyone was so nice. They asked lots of questions and after assessing her gave us a little info. Apparently having low blood counts in the three areas where she is lacking can be a sign of leukemia or acute anemia. She did not show any physical signs of it being leukemia during her physical exam, which is obviously a bonus. Anyway, they admitted us for a blood transfusion and a whole lot of labwork - most I haven't even heard of, which is surprising. We are up in PICU in 4121 (home away from home - I think they should actually dedicate the room to Olivia since she has spent so much time there;) By the time we got up there and settled and they were able to get an IV in, it was time for me to head out to go see the big kids. Zac and my mom are with her now. She is in good spirits when she is awake, but is totally zapped from the low hemoglobin. She has had a few labs drawn and is getting her blood transfusion as we speak. It will run over 4 hours and they will re-draw labs. The dr. will then compare and hopefully have an answer for us in the morning.
Unfortunately, hematology is not something we are familiar with, yet. We are trying to learn what all the numbers mean, but it's a whole lot of numbers. Basically we are trying to rule out leukemia and then find out why her red blood cells aren't staying in her little body. Once that is determined we can begin treating it. The dr. said we should plan on being in for a couple of days. Little does he know, we are used to months!
We had a pep talk from Olivia's cardiologist, Dr. Shah - love that guy! He rattled off a million things that could be causing this and said he would get her fixed up.
Anyway - I want to play with the kids for a bit before bed. I am pulling the early morning shift and won't have access to a computer, but I will try to get someone to update when we hear anything.
I hope this gives a little insight. It's not much, but it's all we really know right now.
All in all - the kids are good, we are good with all of this, and most importantly, Olivia is in great hands - literally.

3 comments:

K & J said...

Wow, so much happens in Chatterton household so fast. We're praying for you & let us know if you need anything.

Kristen & Jason

Becky said...

My sister, Kristen, refferred me to your blg. What an amazing little girl you have! We'll be praying and hoping that everything comes out all right.

Heather said...

We are definitely thinking of you and please know that if you ever need anything....please call us.