Hank Update #8

Another day, more of the same. Hank is a real trooper. We are still waiting for the e. coli tests to come back. I am told that will happen really soon, perhaps even while I'm writing this! The doctor came in this afternoon and here are the things I know thus far.

His platelet count went up slightly from 54 to 59. Dr. Grinsell said that usually goes up before the hematocrit and all the sudden they will shoot up. They need to get to 150.

His hematocrit or red blood cell count went down slightly from 25.5 to 24.9 but has been pretty steady for a few days. That needs to start trending up for at least 3 days before they let him out of here.

They are closely watching his potassium and phosphorus levels as they are both a bit high. He has some dietary restrictions that continue to change on a daily basis. He was told today he could have chocolate and then 15 minutes later told he couldn't. They are just looking for any way to help the kidneys out.

His kidneys are functioning better. He is producing adequate amounts of urine now but his labs are still on the high end. The doctor is pleased with the progress and doesn't anticipate needing dialysis treatment. There are 2 other kids on this floor with HUS and they are both on dialysis so in comparison, he is doing really well.

Sarah and Jack just stopped by this morning and that always cheers us up.

Rusty, don't be mad, the sippy cup has resurfaced!

Kunz, Dyson and Colby are producing some entertaining you tube videos that Hank LOVES! I can't thank everyone enough for all the love and support. I realize how long of a drive it is but that hasn't stopped the visitors from coming. It looks like Christmas in his hospital room. Thank you also for all the help with Max. It looks like we are going to be here a bit longer than I hoped but I keep reminding myself things could be much worse.