Toronto Day 9

This morning we did a RMR test. Basically, this test measures the amount of oxygen and CO2 levels that Noah breathes out. From this, the amount of calories that Noah burns while at rest (his resting metabolic rate) can be determined. Noah had to remain still under a hood for a full 10 minutes for the test to be accurate. Oh, and he also couldn't cry, because then he'd be using up more energy. I was sure this test was going to be a total bust. Couldn't imagine how Noah would stay still for that long. But when the woman arrived to do the test, Noah was still sound asleep. So basically we whipped his CPAP off, and quickly stuck him under the hood. In his half awake state, with Baby Einstein on the TV, he actually managed to complete the test!! I'm curious as to what the results will show. The rest of the morning was spent in the playroom, where Noah discovered the clown (A Leeboo) who came to visit...who blows bubbles, sings and plays the harmonica...Noah was absolutely captivated by him!

We are still continuing to increase Noah's pantoprazole (Protonix) dose, as his stomach ph is still acidic. But the bleeding is much improved as is his stomach comfort. The big question will be whether we will be able to get this IV drug for home use back home. We have tried in the past, but have been unable to get it approved. However, the doctors here are adament that Noah needs it, and it is quite obvious that he does, considering the change in the color of his stomach secretions. Something that will have to be sorted out eventually. We also decreased Noah's TPN another 2 hours today, so he now gets a full 8 hours off the pump. Since no more tests were scheduled for the day and Noah was unhooked, we were allowed to have a pass for the afternoon. But because we are still waiting for a few specialties to come see Noah, we were given a pager so that the ward could page us back if needed. That meant we couldn't wander far, but we spent a relaxing afternoon taking a walk and hanging out at RM house. A company brought in dinner to the house today (which happens a couple of times a week) so that was a very nice treat. And, no, we never did get paged back.
When we got back to the hospital, there were gifts waiting for Noah (and for Kailyn & Joshua too). A friend that I got to know on the internet through our wish trip planning came by. So sorry we missed you Alison, and hopefully we will still have a chance to meet sometime. Thank you for the gifts. Noah was thrilled with all his Tigger loot!