- Weight gain: The NG tube is no longer in Aubrey's nose, so she is now starting to eat and gaining weight - but it's a slow process that can be frustrating and requires constant attention. For example, they have to keep an eye out for signs that liquid is getting into her windpipe, because it could cause pneumonia.
- Motor skills: Today, Aubrey went to receive therapy, and all the therapists were shocked at her progress and that she didn't have to go to inpatient rehab. They did tell the Gallos that Aubrey's motor skills have regressed to those of a child about six months younger than her. But the therapists are nonetheless very encouraged at Aubrey's rapid improvement and believe she will only need to come to therapy once a week for a while.
- Emotional volatility: Aubrey is going to do a follow-up with neurology on Tuesday. She's showing an unusually low tolerance for a number of simple things like putting on her shirt or having her diaper changed. It could be the anti-seizure drug that's causing this, or it could also an aftereffect of the encephalitis.
- Possible epilepsy/vision damage: The doctors will try to figure out whether Aubrey has epilepsy as they continue to treat her, but there is some evidence that children who go through this illness have an increased risk of epilepsy. There's also a possibility that Aubrey's vision was damaged by the West Nile encephalitis.
- that Aubrey will continue to eat normally and continue to gain weight
- that her swallowing will no longer be an issue and she will continue to tolerate thin liquids
- that the emotional volatility will improve
- that she will eventually be able to come off the seizure medications, have no epilepsy, and that she will not ever have another seizure
- that her vision will heal
- that, as Andy prepares to return to work, they will successfully figure out how to deal with a child who still isn't quite the same as before.
Thank you for continuing to pray. We know you have your own issues and concerns, but your comments, prayers, and emails are such a potent reminder that Andy and Ashleigh are not alone in this. We'll try to put up some new photos soon.
The WAF gang are still praying for you all. It's been great to read the updates and see how God is healing Aubrey. Blessings on the Gallo clan.
ReplyDelete-Bill
You are definitely not alone :) We are thinking about you and praying for you and Aubrey as she continues to heal. I wrote awhile back to let you know we could kind of understand what you were going through...we are the parents of Peyton, the micro-preemie. When I read this blog entry, I could totally relate, as Peyton has struggled with swallowing issues, has therapy for motor delays, and is having some vision issues (he had laser surgery in the hospital and may have to wear glasses by next summer). I'm sure it's so hard not having your daughter fully back yet, but I am so impressed at how much progress she has made and we will pray that the Lord continues to heal her. We'll also be praying for your patience...God will be with you every step of the way and you will get through it and be stronger for it. Blessings to you, Jaime & Steve Dadd
ReplyDeletewww.thedadds.blogspot.com
Thank you for maintaining this site which has kept us informed and focused in our prayers for Aubrey and the whole family. We thank God for the amazing work he has been doing in and through you. We pray that you will know the abundance of his grace, love, and peace during the days, weeks, and months of this trial. His mercy and faithfulness never come to an end.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update. I had been wondering and thinking about Aubrey. She and family have been in my thoughts and prayers everyday for over a couple of weeks now. I often talk about her with family and friends. I hope she shows signs of improvement as quickly as she rebounded from the infection. She is truly a little miracle.
ReplyDeleteA day doesn't go by that we don't think of you guys. Actually, you were on our minds often before this because we missed y'all. We will continue to pray for each of you, Gallos. Thank you for keeping us updated, especially with the specific prayer needs. We are thankful for everything God has done so far and know that God's healing hands are still guiding and protecting your family.
ReplyDeleteContinued prayers from El Paso!!!!
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