Tests, tests, and more tests...

O.k. the plan for today is to try and figure out what Ashley is fighting against. She will not only go to cat scan today to look for infection pockets or red flags of her abdomen area, but they have also scheduled a biopsy of the intestine. Ashley's labs are ugly today and her output in the ostomy from her new intestine is too high. There is also some blood in the bag and that combined with the blood in her diapers over the weekend scare us into looking for rejection. Our prayer is that all of these "nasty" things are related to the stress she is under and to the infection she is fighting. They tell me they are just being cautious and makeing sure they look at every possible situation. As difficult as this is to watch I am so very grateful that I am here in Omaha with this group of professionals. They are astounding and I so appreciate the care and concern they use when taking care of Ash.

Yesterday my nurse gave me a wonderful word picture when I asked how she could remain so calm and never show me any panic in these very difficult situations. She looked at me and smiled, then she said I am a duck. I looked at her very puzzled so she began to explain. A duck is so calm, beautiful, and peaceful looking as you watch him glide across the top of the water, but if you could look under the surface you would see his little feet paddling as hard and as fast as they can to keep him going. How wonderful it was for me to know that God has provided this group of people who can keep it together for me and Ash as they furiously paddle under the surface to make things happen. I hope that when my Ashley looks at me she will see a "duck" and not see in my face or sense in my touch all the paddling that is taking place.

One other thing, as fast as I could be thankful and rejoice over Ashley's right lung opening up it has closed once again as she was transfered to the other ventilator. I am just thankful I could smile and see the blessing before it was taken away. I am being taught to be quick with my praise and thanksgiving and not to let those moments pass by without showing my gratitude. He is still good and I know He is holding her for me today.