Jana Wed 7/9

Notice: Jana's new room is # 3307

It's been a few days since I've seen Jana, so I apologize for not having recent updates. Of course anyone that wants to leave news, your thoughts, or an update, you are always welcome to leave a comment on this blog after the latest entry.
I went up tonight and got lots of Jana time! I really noticed a significant change in her speech. She was more fluent and she spoke faster than she has since being in the hospital. On previous visits, sometimes she would take pauses to think of answers or come up with words, but tonight our conversations seemed almost effortless and were quick paced. There were still some moments that were a little foggy for her, but noticeably fewer! She still doesn't have much of an appetite, and her head hurts to varying degrees, but that is to be expected for a while.

Now to catch you up on the last few days... They got the CAT scan results back from Saturday, and it did show improvement. Yesterday, the doctor replaced her catheter to reduce risk of infection, and gave her some preventative antibiotics. In preparation for this, they had to clamp it closed (meaning the blood couldn't drain for about a day) so they when they did the surgery they could get a clearer picture of what was going on. The bad thing is, since it couldn't drain, the blood wasn't escaping and that built up pressure was extremely painful for Jana. Needless to say, her headaches were much worse the last couple of days because of this. After they got the new catheter put in, it resumed draining and she got some relief again. They did another CAT scan today, but the results were unchanged from the last one (though maybe that has to do with them changing out the catheter and it not being able to drain the whole time). The doctor said they are going to wait another 48 hours, and then clamp the catheter closed, and at that time they will evaluate her to see if her body will compensate for the drain and circulate the fluids naturally. If not, they are planning to insert a shunt (which I believe is permanent). That surgery would happen early next week. Please Please Please pray that her body will be healed enough by that time, so that she won't require that surgery and need the shunt!
Her parents wanted me to thank everyone again for the love an support they have received thus far- from visits, calls, food, and especially prayers! Even the doctor made a comment about how many visitors Jana has been having, saying what a loved girl she must be! Her room is decorated with cards and crosses, and homemade pictures from kids, and she is never short on company it seems, which she really appreciates. Jana and her family are extremely grateful for the love everyone has shown in so many ways!