Linc is doing OK. They have checked his lower gut. No sign of blockages. No word about his upper GI yet.
The main concern is his labored breathing. Right now he is receiving CPAP (continuous positive air pressure), which has made it much easier for him to breathe. This is an air delivery system with a tube that feeds air in through his nostrils. It is not a ventilator, he breathes on his own, but the pressurized air keeps his alveoli open (previously, the medical staff could hear he had to "pop" them open with each breath, which took a lot of effort, putting stress on his little body). They aren't totally sure why his breathing is off.
He is still getting the antibiotics (those initial blood tests at Mt. Nittany indicated signs of infection). It may be related to his lungs, but they are not sure at this point. His blood counts are looking good, indicating that treatment is fighting the infection. The antibiotic treatment will continue thru Sunday.
The doc is checking out a lot of things right now. The shape of Linc's chest isn't quite right, and there are several other little things like that which they want to investigate. Many of the other specialists who may be participating in these evaluations are not in until Monday.
The hospital's name is Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. We are staying at the Ronald McDonald House, just across the street from the hospital. In the NICU, they do not allow cell phones, so we will respond to voice messages and email when we step out of the unit.
Attached is a (blurry) picture of the helicopter pilot, psyching Linc up for the flight. The flight transport team was great. The docs and nurses who have treated Linc have also been excellent.
We'll send another update tomorrow. We love you all. Thanks for the messages of prayer & encouragement.
We are doing ok, just tired. We have much to be thankful for--including all of you. Pray for Maddy, she's in great hands but it has been a little stressful for her.
-Nikki (& Steve)
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