DOB: 7-13-03

Miles made it out of the hospital just in time for his thirteenth birthday.  He'll tell you he's feeling well and pain-free.

His surgery was Monday, June 20.  In the three weeks since, here's some of what happened:

Surgical complication: leak of lymphatic fluid into the chest.  Often this stops on its own, but Miles developed a pocket of this gunk in his chest that led to a series of fevers and malaise.  Doctors administered repeated doses of TPA through his chest tube to break up the lingering pockets--helpful, but not enough.  So, Miles got the first tube replaced, and ultimately a second tube to target the nuisance spot.

Lymphatic leaks tend to respond to restricting food and drink intake, so part of Miles' treatment included nothing by mouth.  That was hard, as was the prospect that this approach could last weeks.  In the meantime, peripheral nutrition was started--nutrients through the IV.  Of course, he needed a larger catheter, called a PICC line, to have it administered.

In week three, things started looking up, as drainage slowed to a trickle.  He was allowed to eat again--major victory.  So finally, this past Tuesday, he went tube free.

A week into his stay, he wasn't feeling so great, and he spent a lot of time in bed.  But during his last week, he energized, took to his feet frequently, and regained his stamina.  Twenty-two chest x-rays later, he's home.

Thanks to all of you who visited Miles and sent your good wishes and prayers during this extended stint.  Many pictures and credits are on the way!