I thank you for all your prayers and ask that you continue…
Samuel spent the day yesterday breathing on his own. They did keep the ventilator tube in and it was only providing 6 breaths per min, Samuel was doing the rest. That changed around 5:00 am this morning (May 29), they had to increase his ventilation rate to 30 breaths because his gas levels (carbon dioxide) have gone from the low 20’s (which is good), to higher levels in the 70’s (not good). They just took x-rays to make sure we don’t have any internal issues going on. Waiting on the results…
They’ve had him on a cooling protocol since he was born which means they are keeping his body temp at around 91 degrees in an attempt to keep brain swelling down and keep his other main organs suppressed. He will have an MRI and EEG (brain wave testing) done today to try and determine how his brain was affected. He will remain on the cooling protocol for the rest of today and then they will start slowly warming him to a normal body temp. At that time, his main organs will no longer be suppressed and only God know how he will respond…
Since his arrival, he has been non-responsive with only very mild reaction to some of the reflex testing. Yesterday around noon, I started to see more response when I touched his feet and hands. By the end of the day, his toes would move slightly when I would run my finger along the bottom of his foot. His hands went from totally limp and easily opened to having resistance in his fingers. This grew stronger throughout the day to the point of prying his fingers open and he could hold on to my finger. When they increased his ventilation this morning, his feet are no longer responsive and the resistance in his hands have diminished some.
I will keep everyone posted as I have new info. Please send this to anyone who will pray for him and if they want to be added to this distribution list, they need to send an email to yemery2009@hotmail.com. Samuel Ian’s name was chosen at about 5 months in the womb and his name literally means “God hears our prayers and answers graciously.”
Keep praying,Yancy
The Family
The Kids
Christmas at Grandma's
Samuel and his Buddy
Samuel's friend Lucas was able to come and join us in our Celebration of Life, a real treat for all of us! I may be partial, but these two guys are my favorite little men.
Elianna Helps With Range
Elianna helps with Samuel's daily range. She is taught to love and help brother because he is so important and special to us. She watches everything we do so that she can help.
Me and Samuel
Okay, so my favorite snuggle spot is up in bed with Samuel. Most people think I'm crazy for squeezing up on that little bed with him but we like it that way. Samuel and I are reading our favorite book Ishmael.
Samuel Helps Cook In The Kitchen
Samuel joins us in daily activities.
Samuel Swinging
Samuel's not sure yet how he feels about swinging. It is an odd sensation.
Reading
Samuel loves to be read too. We are both book worms.
Of course Elianna can't miss out. She shares her brother's love of reading and is never far behind.
Samuel and Buttons
Samuel's Easter Picture
Samuel and his Buddies
From left to right: Old Reliable, Quacker Jack, Ivan, Frogerton, Mr. Philmore Better, Woolma, and Nanook
Sheila
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Sheila has now been part of our family for seven months. She's always good for a laugh and is very devoted to Samuel and our Family. Don't mess with Sheila's little guy, you'll regret it. This is taken on Samuel's first Birthday.
Debbie
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Debbie is one of our new nurses. She has been a great blessing in her positive outlook and proactive attitude. Her desire is to help Samuel however she can in whatever way he needs.
Julie
As you can see, Samuel loves Julie's voice. He listens to her with big open eyes and hangs on every word she says. Samuel loves to be sung to, but he especially loves to hear Julie.
