The NEW IN NORMAL

Next week we will be adjusting once again into our normal routine as Todd is returning back to work after spring break. This has meant that I have gradually returned to do Kourtney's dressing changes so at least I know what is going on and can help out with them. As much as our routine is returning to normal again, Kourtney's care is the new normal and we are praying that Todd and I can organize ourselves well enough each week that her care is shared between the two of us.

The new normal for Kourtney is more "new" then normal. Although the storm is over the aftermath remains and the grieving for Kourtney continues. The dressing changes remain a two person job and have been streamlined a bit more so it is about 1 1/2 hour procedure. The MRSA remains active on her skin, but is controlled with the honey dressings (we have honey dressings now that will last us till next year). The joint contractures have increased significantly especially on her wrists to the point that her right wrist is in a cast to see if the joint can be corrected. She will wear the cast for a month which will be changed on a weekly basis to monitor the progress. Walking remains a laborious task for her due to sore knees and chronic anemia issues. Kourtney's sleep is disturbed due to pain despite adjusting her pain meds. It seems like for every good day Kourtney has there are 5 bad days.

Although Kourtney's overall health is generally poor, our family remains strong. Todd and I both feel a sense of unity in our relationship as a couple and also in meeting Kourtney's needs. Shaelyn has blossomed through the past couple of months and has returned to our happy independent 8 year old. Kourtney still struggles through her baths and really has a difficult time when she sees her skin in such rough shape. She grieves the loss of a normal life, and generally feels unwell. We allow her to vent her frustrations and generally that is what she needs to help her in her grieving process.

Yesterday we went to Children's to take off Kourtney's cast. The results were so amazing Dr Courtemanche was teary. Kourtney's wrist is straightening out beautifully with the cast. The cast was changed yesterday and she will wear the cast for the next couple of weeks. Dr. Courtemanche was very concerned for Kourtney. He really feels the MRSA is wearing her little body down. We have now put her on antibiotics again to give her tired body relief from the pain and the infection. We continue to covet your prayers for her and pray that the MRSA will disappear soon (the DNA of the MRSA has changed and now has become a bit more treatable with different antibiotics, which is great news.)

Todd has completed a lot of projects, including new carpet on the stairs and in our basement. Our little diamond in the rough of a house is transforming into the diamond that Todd and I dreamed it could be. There are still many reno's to do but we are way ahead of schedule. Todd loves doing reno's. He is definitely the happiest when he has his stud finder, nail gun and a tube of dap in his hands. He will trade these items in for his rake, pruning shears and topsoil as our yard will need attention as the signs of spring are quickly emerging. This weekend he will be leading the worship at our church for all 3 services. This is a huge responsibility for Todd and one that he does not take lightly. I am soooo proud of him!

I am feeling so much stronger and healthy emotionally. The biggest area that has improved is a decrease in anxiety. No longer am I faced with sleepless nights, heart palpitations, and dizziness. I am able to handle life so much better. I love my job and feel a sense of satisfaction when I finish each shift. I am always amazed at new life and love "babysitting" for the new mom's and dad's at night just so they can get some sleep. (I always tell them to take advantage of the most expensive babysitter they will ever have).

Our new normal . . . yes it's not without challenges, but we are embracing it and know that there will be great and mighty things that will continue to spring forth this year.