Not exactly the way we envisioned it!

Jadon turned 3 today.  This was the first birthday of his that he had with mom and dad around.  It was the first birthday he had with a family and friends that are behind him and supporting him.  Unfortunately, it was likely not the first birthday he spent with multiple health caregivers surrounding him.

When we first adopted Jadon, we thought his heart issues had already been fixed with the Tetrology of Fallot surgery.  As it turns out, he had only received a temporary fix, buying him some time until he could get the complete surgery.  When we went into the hospital on Feb 11 for his complete Tet repair, we had absolutely no expectations that his birthday would be spent in the hospital.  Even during the summer, we and the kids were so looking forward to this day.  We were hoping that after Jadon's G-tube insertion and fundoplication on Wednesday, that he would be recovering well, taking his feeds, and be upstairs in his own room on the cardiac floor.  We were hoping that his birthday would be only days before he would be able to come home.

Unfortunately, due to the cardiac arrest on Wednesday evening, and the liver and kidney complications, Jadon is still intubated in the Cardiac Critical Care Unit.  This is where he celebrated his third birthday.  The nurses from both floors, the CCCU and the Cardiac floor were absolutely wonderful.  They helped Rykauna decorate Jadon's crib area, made and signed cards, brought gifts and a cake, and sang Happy Birthday to Jadon.  We could once again see the love that so much of the staff have for Jadon.

Jadon's liver enzyme numbers are looking much better.  His kidneys are working better and he is starting to get rid of the excess fluid (which is currently his biggest problem), he is on minimal ventilator settings and he is tolerating significant feeds through his newly inserted G-tube.  Once again, our little warrior is fighting through yet another setback!  We are so proud of him and we love him so much.

Happy Birthday Jadon!