Waiting for Independence Day

Drainage has been dragging and Miles had a bout of fevers and headache yesterday.  Today he had two interventions under sedation: 1) PICC line placed, and 2) chest tube replaced.

The PICC line is a larger, longer-lasting IV through which lots of fluid and medication may be delivered.  Plus, it accommodates blood draws, so Miles won't need to be stuck as much.  The new chest tube sits in a position that should better address fluid collections.  He is currently feeling good with a number of wry smiles.

He is getting more TPA instilled into his chest tonight, which is designed to break up any gunk sticking around in there.  This process is painless--he just needs to shift positions a bit.

He will be on IV nutrition with nothing by mouth for awhile--not sure exactly how long, or when he will get to go home.  We are not making estimates at this point.  When he does go home, it is likely this regimen will continue.  

Louis is carrying the torch back home.