Nine Days Later

When we arrived at the hospital yesterday (Sunday), the nurse lowered the pain medication, which then lowered Jennie's heart rate to more normal levels. She expressed that the the pain meds can cause a form of sedation when they are too high. The family met with the Trauma PA last evening and were updated on Jennie's status. They expressed concern that Jennie had not been responding as they had hoped. Today Jennie had a minor positive improvement that seems hopeful. The nurse pinched Jennie in both her left and right armpits, which she responded to with arm movement. We have not seen any purposeful movement since the first night. There will be a neurological test administered  today called SSEP in which they place sensors from her wrist to her shoulder and spine and head. This test measures the response from her hands to her brain. We will get results tomorrow. Its not definitive but hopefully will give us some indication of her condition. Jennie's brother John and his wife Ashlie have joined our vigil and we will swap family members as needed. Richard's brother and sister-in-law will arrive as relief when Jennie's siblings need to return to their families. Keep sending your prayers and love, it's greatly needed and provides comfort to us all.