Since I didn't get a written update from Tami today, I will give you the information she gave me when we talked last night.
Deacon had his chest tube removed yesterday and they were beginning to decrease the amount of oxygen provided to him by the respirator. If he continues to be stable over the next 24-48 hours, there was a possibility they might be able to hold him, even if he were still on the respirator! I think they were trying to be conservative about taking him off the respirator this time. His echocardiogram came back with a moderate-large opening in the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). It is my understanding that they are not planning on doing anything at this point in time. I assume they are still hoping it will close on its own. If not, and it gives him problems, the next step would be medication to help it close. As a last resort, they would do surgery.
Avi continues to remain fairly stable. They were not able to hold her last night as they only like that to happen 2-3 times a week. It apparently burns a lot of calories and they like to put those toward growth. Hopefully Tyler will be able to hold her either tonight or tomorrow. She does have a heart murmur too, so they think she probably has PDA (which is not unusual for preemies), but feel it is probably smaller than Deacon's and they are not planning on doing an echocardiogram unless she runs into problems.
Tyler has decided not to go back to work now until Thursday. The two of them appear to be doing incredibly well. It is hard on the rest of us not being able to spend time with them or the babies, but we do understand that they are using all their energy and strength just taking care of themselves and spending time with their babies. Tami has been very good about updating us every night and e-mailing and texting during the day if necessary. They were able to go back home Saturday which I imagine felt wonderful and they are planning on staying there most nights now. They can stay at the hospital two nights a week, which they will probably continue to do as it makes it so much more convenient to spend time with the twins.
We appreciate all the wonderful notes, good wishes, and prayers we have received from so many. It has meant a lot to know what a strong support system there is for these two little babies and their family. Thank you to everyone!
~Grandma K.
