Feeding Issues

Jodi had a very long night at the hospital with Mitchell, and tonight is Ted's turn. Thankfully, Jean and Bethany are now in Atlanta to help with the girls and give Ted and Jodi a little time together.

The latest news is that Mitchell hasn't shown any significant improvement with the feeding problems he's been facing. The volume has been decreased to the smallest possible amount, and alternative sources of nutrition have been tried. He had an upper GI test this morning which shows that he definitely has reflux problems. It's very common for these babies to have this condition, and when that is the case, a surgery called fundoplication is usually the solution. The surgeon was in late this afternoon and is consulting with other doctors, but at this point it is quite likely that the procedure will be done in the very near future, probably by Wednesday. This will allow Mitchell to receive milk through a G-tube that will be placed directly in his stomach through his abdomen and eliminate the need for the NG tube. While Ted and Jodi aren't thrilled with the prospect of another procedure, it should be a relatively simple solution to his feeding difficulties. He will be able to receive continuous feedings without the discomfort of the feeding tube. It sounds as if he will be fed this way until he has the second cardiac surgery, which will probably be around the end of September.

So, specific prayer requests include a safe and successful surgery, wisdom for the doctors, rest for Ted and Jodi, and strength for Jean and Bethany as they help with the girls for the next few days. Thanks to everyone for your support, concern, and prayers!