Thursday 5/11/06 8:30pm update...

What a long day, but it deemed to be very successful. Our day started at 8am with family time before our procedures began. Kodi and I sat with Braden while the nurses got him and the process ready to roll. He had his last meal at 3am and was strictly on an IV from that point on. He was resting comfortably when we were there and we talked the procedure over with the surgeon and his team of 4 nurses. The main surgeon doing the procedure was detained in a previous surgery so we did not get started until a little before 1pm. We decided to add his "boy" procedure to the list of items to be done because he would be under for that to. Kodi and I went home to catch some lunch and rest. The nurse called us at 2:20pm saying that the procedure was about over so we hustled back to the hospital. Once there we waited to be let in his room. Once we got to his bed side he was resting comfortably and off oxygen. His nurses gave us the run down of the procedures. They were very proud of him and his tolerance through out. We met with the Genetics Dr about his blood samples, who basically called Braden's conditions stable. He believes that Kodi and I were not at fault for any of his issues and that the likelihood of this happening to any further siblings is remote. Of course this came as a huge relief to the two of us. He did ask us some questions about our family tree and said that he would continue to monitor our situation once we get released. We have not been told a firm discharge date because it is totally up to Braden and his recovery. He is a very strong boy and very much a fighting Tiger. This was a landmark day in our short life and none of this would be possible without the prayers and love of so many people who have shown a concern for our family. It is with our deepest gratitude that we thank each of you for your thoughts and prayers. Tomorrow we will know more about our procedures and when we can begin feeding through our tube. BRADLEY