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Monday, June 13, 2011

Treatment

So we are changing our course of treatment. After Loma Linda heard about the results of the cath, which showed extremely high pressures and a stiffened heart, they decided an aggressive treatment was necessary. They will be starting Thymoglobulin, what was given immediately after transplant to completely wipe her system. Whatever is going on with her heart needs to be tackled quickly because of the speed of her decline. Thymo has a lot of risks but in light of what's going on, they are risks that need to be taken. It will run slow and we will take it day by day, watching for progress and side effects. Tomorrow we will also get the results of e biopsy and decide if we are on the right path or if something more effective comes to lig with the results.

(edited to add: the r-ATG, which is the kind of Thymo Gabriella is getting is made from rabbits. r-ATG is made by injecting rabbits with white blood cells. The rabbit's immune system makes antibodies to destroy the foreign white cells. The antibodies are collected and purified to make r-ATG. Fun fact for the evening.)

Gabriella is struggling with the sedatives, and we had to further sedate her to keep her calm. It is very hard when she wakes because she cries that she is done and wants to go home. The intensivist has stopped rounds for tonight on the floor to get Gabriella taken care of, her transplant coordinators from here and Loma Linda have been calling me faithfully and everyone is working hard on tackling this rejection.

I just ask that you all pray for clear communication between all doctors involved, strength in Gabriellas body to keep pushing and full restoration of her heart function.

13 comments:

Jennifer said...

Kristi, I've actually been following you guys some time now and it amazes me how much that you get attached to a fellow heart family. We are definitely praying that everything works out for you guys and Gabriella. You have a wonderful family! :)
Hugs, praying.

Jennifer

Oopsie Daisies said...

We are praying from So Cal! You are loved by your Restoration Family!!!

Nikki said...

I'm keeping you all in thoughts and prayers tonight and every night until Gabriella makes it through this. Hugs to you from all of us at Zoe's Heart & The Guilty Parent.

Chris A said...

Praying fervently...

Holding you close...

with Love and Hope,
~ Chris Atherton~

2ndheartmom said...

Kristi - I have fallen behind in reading posts and was so shocked to see this tonight. I will definitely be praying for Gabriella, the doctors and you and your family tonight and every day. I am so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. I hope they are able to fix things and get Gabriella home again soon. Hugs from afar...

Kaidence's Mommy said...

My little Kaidence is also a heart transplant. I heard about your cutie from Owen's mom. Please know you are in our prayers. Last August Kaidence had AMR as well. It came on fast and furious. Things for her did not look well and we also did all the treatments. I just wanted to tell you to hang in there. Kaidence has done well since. I won't lie, seeing her that sick again was one of the hardest things (as you know).It took a little longer than I thought for her heart to recover and was a set back, but she is here and her heart is healthy. Please keep us posted. Prayers coming your way from Utah!

www.4mykaidence.blogspot.com

Andrea Gunnell said...

I'm so sorry Gabriella has to go through this. Breaks my heart. Lots of prayers headed your way!

Carla said...

I saw your daughter's story on a news feed on FB. I read her story and then the latest medical updates. I will definitely pray for your sweet angel girl. Stay strong, Mom.

Hugz,
Carla

Neldajay said...

I am praying for Gabriela and your family.

phillip manganaro said...

God bless you and your family, iam praying for strength, patience, and continued faith please stay strong. The peace of the lord be with you always...

phillip manganaro said...

God bless you and your family, iam praying for strength, patience, and continued faith please stay strong. The peace of the lord be with you always...

Mary Ellen said...

Continued prayers

((hugs))

Mary Ellen

cici said...

Prayer Warriors are back at work
Praying for a quick recovery and healing of little Gabriella's precious heart.
Please give her a big hug from me.