Off the Vent

-Daniel's platelet count was low (64,000) - 50,000 is critical. The doctor thought it would be better to give Daniel a blood transfusion now instead of waiting for the count to drop to the critical point. Daniel received the transfusion early this morning and did well with it. We were told that Daniel made need several transfusions during his NICU stay.
-One of the many lines, wire going into Daniel is a central line. The central line is currently going into a vein in his belly button. This is common for tiny babies. Doctors try not to leave this line in for too long due to a high risk of infection and blood clots. The doctor tried to move the central line to Daniel's arm today but was unsuccessful. Daniel's veins are too tiny.
-When we talked to the doctor this morning she said that Daniel was ready to come off the vent but that she would wait until tomorrow since he was stressed out from having the central line moved. Carol (one of Daniel's wonderful nurses) called us around 2:30 this afternoon and told us that Daniel was off the vent on a nasal cannula and that he was tolerating the change well. The doctor had decided to try the central line again and was successful (the central line is now in his arm), she also decided to let Daniel have a trial without the vent.
-We were so excited to see Daniel's sweet little face tonight. He looks A LOT like Daddy. We were there for Daniel's nightly "cares" - diaper change, temps, weigh-in, etc. Daniel is back up to his birth weight - 2 pounds and Mommy got to hold Daniel (for a very brief second) while the nurse changed his bedding out.
-We are grateful for the good news today. We are thankful that Daniel's health/development is headed in the right direction. Thank you for praying with us for our little man.