Friday, 21 Jan 2005 ( 5 am ):

The past 24 hours for Gabriella have had both ups and downs. When she woke yesterday morning she immediately needed pain medication. However, Ella’s stomach ruled supreme. Her requirements for pain medication diminished as she began to feed more often and more vigorously.

Despite the nurses interruptions, GG slept well last night. This morning we learned about the down-side of Ella’s tracheostomy – it can and WILL become blocked by her secretions. When that happens her oxygen level drops and suction must be used immediately to clear the blockage and open her airway.

Naturally, Ella doesn’t like any aspect of having her airway blocked or cleared. It is truly heartbreaking to see her little grimace as she does her “silent cry” – her tracheostomy is below her vocal cords, as such she is unable to vocalize. All for now…

thank you for your prayers.