UPDATE: DECLAN

As many of you know, Declan was in the hospital this past week. We were in and out of the ER Tues. morning through early Thurs. morning before they finally admitted him to the pediatric unit.

It's such a LONG, drawn-out story, but basically Declan was admitted to Clarian North hospital Thursday at 4a.m. After three days of wheezing and difficulty breathing, the doctors decided that his need for oxygen and fluids was overdue.

Once Friday rolled around, it was confirmed that Declan had RSV - a respiratory virus that affects toddlers and adults exactly the same way. The only difference is that adults (and their larger organs) can handle the mucus it produces whereas infants and toddlers (who have smaller lungs) cannot. The worst part of this virus is that infants and toddlers cannot breath normally. I cannot tell you how terrifying it is to watch your child struggle to breath!!

Sadly (and coincidentally as it is) Matthew was hospitalized for the exact same thing last year (at almost the same time). Luckily for us, because of his hospitalization, we were able to see symptoms of Declan's RSV VERY early. Matt and I joke about how we're "experts" at pinpointing RSV.

By Friday night, Declan was doing a tad better and we were hoping to get discharged; however, as though the nightmare needed to continue, the doctor came in Friday night to tell us there was a problem w/ Declan's blood sample -- that he could potentially have a blood infection. Because of this, we were not only stuck in the hospital another night, but faced with the reality that Declan could very well get even more sick!! They put him on extremely STRONG medication that cause an allergic reaction (Red Man's Syndrome they called it). Basically, from the neck up, Declan turned as red as a tomato!

Well, turns out the blood sample was contaminated -- a not-so-uncommon occurrence according to the pediatrician. So, we were discharged from the hospital late yesterday afternoon!! Declan was so happy to be home!! He played with his toys and slept soundly in his bed (through the nigh, which he has not done for over a week).

We're so glad to be over the hump of his illness and look forward to regaining some normalcy!! Thanks to all of your thoughts, prayers, messages and kindness! So many people helped us out! Thank you mom and dad and siblings (The Lee side and The Hickel side) for your support! My in-laws and Maureen and Brynn took care of Matthew for us, which dissipated so much worry in our minds! Our neighbors Karla, Allan, Lauren and Kristina also took Matthew for a couple of hours while we were at the hospital. Thank you as well! You all are life-savers!

This week will surely bring so much more happiness and excitement to our lives. I can't wait to resume writing about all our positive, ill-free adventures!!

Happy Superbowl Sunday!! GO COLTS!!