Wow, the things a good night of sleep can do for you. Michael got a lot of nice, long rest overnight and feels so much better today. His fever is also gone and he even took a shower this morning. It’s really good to see him perking up again so quickly. 

The doctor came by and said Michael’s sodium levels are still lower than they should be so they’ll probably restrict his fluid intake to a specific, as yet undecided, amount so as not to dilute his bloodstream and work against the sodium tablets they’re giving him. If they decide to go that route, it won’t be as maddening for him as when he was limited to only ice chips the first few days after surgery so desperately thirsty those first few days after surgery. Back then he had a tube in his nose that was contributing to the dryness and his body chemistry was completely out of whack from the blood loss.

Speaking of fluids, it’s not uncommon for fluid to build up in the body around the incision site after surgery and last night’s ultrasound showed that’s what’s happening for Michael. Without bogging you down with a gastrointestinal anatomy lesson, he still has his drain that’s collecting fluids from a specific area but this fluid is collecting around the general area where the drain can’t reach. Sometimes it clears up on its own, sometimes the doctors need to help it along, but they’re comfortable with taking a wait-and-see approach right now. If they decide to address it, there are medications and minor medical techniques they can use to remove the fluid, but we aren’t at that point yet and hopefully won’t get there. Rest assured it’s not causing him any pain. 

Here’s a picture of our brave hero, posted with permission. I’ve been reading him everyone’s comments and they mean so much. He says to say thank you and that he’s looking forward to seeing you all again soon.

I’ll be back this evening with the latest which, heavens willing, will be more encouraging news. ❤️