Cold Stress

We learned a couple of things about Maria this morning. First, her crit number (total red blood cell count) is back down to 25. The staff did not test her retic number (newly produced red blood cell count), so we don't know if Maria is producing any new red blood cells on her own. Joe and I are both a bit annoyed that they did not test her retic numbers, as this level would indicate whether or not her supplements are working. Plus, they told us last week that they would test her retic numbers today. Perhaps it was a misunderstanding. She will not be tested again until next Monday, because they want to be careful not to be drawing a lot of blood from her.

Her crit number is at the level where it was at her blood transfusion. Since Maria is older and more mature, they are hopeful that her body will eventually be able to raise the crit number on her own. We will just play another round of "wait and see"! Please pray specifically for her anemia. The biggest tizzy I had during this whole time was her first round of anemia...it really scared me, and I want to see Maria be able to pull out of this one on her own...she can't have transfusions indefinitely!

The good news today is Dr. Balsan wants to begin to cold stress Maria. This cold stress means that they will progressively lower her bed temperature by 0.5 degree every three hours, and see if she can keep up. Her body temps have been very good recently, so everyone is very hopeful that she will do well with the stress. If she can handle the cold stress, then she can move into an open-air bed!! Wouldn't that be wonderful?!?!