Marcus update #19

Hi.. I wanted to let you all know how Marcus's heart cath. went on Monday and also explain to you the best I can what they found.

So.. the test itself went well with no complications. I was able to stay with him until he was asleep. It took about 3 1/2 hours. Marcus then was in the recovery room for another 3 hours.

They found that Marcus's heart is doing well and is not causing his oxygen need. A lot of head scratching and a lot of tests went on. "Nope that's not it, hmm what could it be? Let's try this test." What they think is causing the oxygen need, and the recent increase in his need, is his lungs. There seems to be a problem with the exchange between his capillaries and his lung tissue. Basically what I understand is that his blood is not being properly oxygenated on it's trip to his lungs.

What's next? We have an appointment with the pulmonologist on October 26th at Phoenix Childrens Hospital to discuss this further. The cardiologist group is going to discuss Marcus's condition at their meeting this month, and we will be following up with his cardiologist soon too (no appointment scheduled yet).

I will continue to keep you informed about what is going on with Marcus. I'll try to add more pictures next time. Marcus is doing well, getting stronger, and growing - he is almost 16 lbs now. He is fighting off colds better each time - he had one a few weeks ago, and it was really not a big deal this time. No breathing treatments, no pneumonia, no hospital.

Thanks for your prayers. We appreciate them very much.