Reese’s Aunt Laura Dufford Jackson shares the following update with us:
It has been quite a while since I have truly given a medical update on Reese. We have had lots of things going on and many things that have brought excitement to us all – like Pantene’s winnings at the All American, her flower girl picture and a few funny photos here and there…but I have failed to truly update you on REESE. I am sure most all of you saw her amazing video of her walking and how strong she is these days. That hasn’t changed – she still pushes forward in therapy and seems to always have something new to show us. Since the last update, Reese was weaned significantly (in small increments) on her VAD and ventilator supports. She handled these weanings like a champ and showed the staff her strength. Her kidneys continue to make more and more urine and the last 2 weeks she has even gone to 4 days of 12 hour sessions on dialysis as opposed to every night. This is a huge step in her recovery. The biggest news of all… last night, Reese’s VAD circuit had a mechanical malfunction and Reese was OFF of the support from the VAD for 3 hours. It was a very scary night – Claire and Justin were at a shift change, Justin made it all the way home when Claire had to call him back to Baltimore. While last night’s malfunction was certainly NOT planned, it did show the doctors that Reese is ready for the next step. She handled being off of the VAD beautifully. In the coming weeks, Reese’s medical team will be making plans to “kick this thing to the curb” and will make arrangements for the VAD removal surgery. That will be a huge surgery as it is an open heart surgery. While this is such great news, it is also a very scary time as heart surgery stresses the lungs and we know Reese’s lungs are still fragile. But Reese’s team believes in her and believes she is strong and ready. We ask for so many prayers right now starting with prayers for the knowledge of the doctors to think this surgery process through. Pray for the health of all medical employees that surround Reese and the health of Reese and all of her family. Pray that Reese handles this next process mentally as it will mean big changes for her. Give her strength and determination to push forward. We are overjoyed with the progress Reese continues to make and are all very emotional at the news that Reese is truly making huge strides these days. When you sit and think about where Reese was this time last year and where Reese is today, it’s hard to believe. I know many tears were shed today because Reese proved to the medical team last night that she is strong and she is ready for the next step. God has certainly had a hand in the healing progress of this little girl. He has used Reese to teach these doctors and nurses and therapist. He has scared us a time or two (or too many) but He always brought Reese through. He has strengthened this family and brought us all so many new friends. God has been amazing and Reese is with us in every sense of the word today. She is proof that miracles do happen. Pray for Reese, pray for forward progress and believe in miracles…I know I believe in miracles and I believe in Reese! (and for anyone who plans a visit to Reese adults or kids, please GET YOUR FLU SHOT).
