Changes and more changes

A lot has been happening in Toby's room. They are monitoring him closely and making adjustments as they attempt to "challenge" him to make progress towards being free of the vent. And there has been some good progress. They have been able to lower the pressures about as low as they can go. They are working now at lowering the rate. (This is the minimum number of breaths the vent triggers; he is making up the difference above that to meet his needs.) A couple days ago he was on a rate of 50 and is now at 24- so significant progress there, also. He has started receiving doses of caffeine to help stimulate his breathing. I offered to simply eat more chocolate, but evidently that isn't enough. He also continues to receive other assorted drugs. And today he had another blood transfusion. He looked quite pink and healthy when I left. I didn't realise how pale he had become until I saw the contrast. It is exciting to see him making progress and to look forward. He weighed in at 3 lbs 3ounces today and is gaining nicely.

Caeli and Ivy were able to join me yesterday and stay for an overnight visit. They visited Toby last night, spent the whole morning with him today, and gave him a lot of love and attention. They are eager to take their little brother home.