Q

I'd like to introduce you to Quinton Joseph (also "Q") ... he's my nephew. Arrived on December 27th at 8.45pm at a whopping 2pounds 10ounces, a full 12 weeks early.

Ups and downs. That's the best way to describe what's been going on with Q since he was born. Below are the updates as best as I know. We have been overwhelmed by your support and your prayers. Thanks doesn't seem like enough, but since I'm writing this, possibly from very far from where you are, thanks is what I have. Truly, thank you.
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January 3rd-4th - the first rough night... infection, brain bleed, pale and not moving like he has been.

January 4th, Noon (mountain) - holding steady and some small improvements! Keep praying that the doctors find out what's wrong. Thanks!

January 4th, 7pm - still stable! he has some color back and is not getting any worse. The doctors are still searching for what's causing infection. More tomorrow... keep praying... and thank you so much for your support so far!

January 5th - Q is still stable. He has a brain bleed. It's moderate, but pray it doesn't get any worse. His heart rate is fluctuating too so pray that also stabilizes. The doctors are still searching for the cause of the infection. Your continued prayers are so appreciated!

January 6th - Mom, Dad and Gram got to hold Q today as he continues to improve. He had a blood transfusion today. He still has a brain bleed, but it hasn't worsened. Words can't say enough how much your prayers and support have meant to my family.

January 10th - Check it out!

 He's still just a tiny boy, but much improved. They did some blood work and tests today on the brain bleed. Hopefully tomorrow they'll have an idea of what's going on with both his blood and in his heart. Q's heart rate is still fluctuating a great deal. He's been on antibiotics and this weekend they'll take him off of them.

We keep praying for his heart to stabilize, his brain bleed to stop, the infection to be gone and for him to keep growing.

Truly, we can't express how much your support and prayers have meant. I'm amazed at the number of people who have been down this road, people who have stepped out of the woodwork to support my sister and brother-in-law, and the incredible way that God has responded.





January 13th -

First skin to skin contact with mom!

This week, prayers are most appreciated for Q's brain. After a scan, doctors found a clot that is causing fluid to back up. The clot needs to go down so the fluid can drain or there are lots of other medical complications that will follow.

Q's heart rate also remains a mystery. It's higher than it should be and they're not sure why.

On the good news front - Q is off of the anti-biotics. He's breathing well and mom and dad have been able to hold him.

And frankly, he's pretty cute. :)




 January 18th - Q's brain scan was today. Good news - no change. Bad news - no change. He still has the blood clot and some fluid. He'll have another scan in 2 weeks. For now, keep praying for his brain and heart. Truly, thank you. We're blown away and humbled by your continued prayers.

 January 20th - Q's head was showing too much growth yesterday. Today there will be another brain scan to see what's going on. It feels like another down, a little bit, but God is good and we trust He's still got this.

January 21st - Q's head is measuring more normally today. It's been nearly a month since this sweet boy came into our lives. That also means it's been nearly a month of high tension, roller coaster emotions, and sleepless nights for my sister and brother-in-law.

Today, would you offer up some prayers for them? For peace... strength... and that they can continue to trust the God that brought them this little boy... the same God who offered up His Son so we can have real life.

As always... thank you for your support, your comments, and your continued prayers. They mean so much to us!

January 25th - Hard to believe this sweet boy is almost a month old! He's been pretty stable with still some trouble breathing. They measure his head every day to make sure it's not growing abnormally, and so far so good. He's up to 3pounds and 8ounces!

Another brain scan on Monday to see how the blood clot is doing.

Q's Prayer (as interpreted by his dad):

Dear Lord, Thank you for this day. Thank you for my health. Thank you for my growth. I can't wait to see my parents tomorrow,but right now I'd really enjoy another tube of milk!

February 15th - Almost 2 months old! Q's not quite ready to go home yet, but getting ready! His brain scans have shown mild improvement. Right now we're praying for him to have enough energy to be able to eat and gain weight consistently. His red blood cell count is down which makes him tire quickly and even eating is a lot of work.

Thanks for your continued prayers and questions. It's meant a lot to my sister, brother in law and parents. Thanks for checking in on Q!