Feb 22nd

Not a great one. This time, Colton isn’t doing so well.

When the boys were born, both had a small hole in their hearts, something common in preemies that usually closes on its own. It’s called a PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus).

Colton’s has not. His is actually larger. Our entire team of doctors are working together to come up with a plan. We’ve been told this is common in preemies and often responds well to medication, which is reassuring. But it can also impact his gut and other organs, so it’s something we have to take seriously.

It doesn’t seem urgent at this moment, but as we’ve learned, things can change quickly. We’re waiting on a clear plan and will update when we know more.

And because apparently this roller coaster needed another drop, Colton’s blood results came back. He also has a blood infection.

We suspected something wasn’t right based on how he was acting. They started antibiotics this morning and will be adding more. It will take a few days to fully treat, but we’re praying that by tomorrow we’ll start to see more of “our” Colton again.

Because of this, we are going to say no visitors this week while he works through his course of antibiotics. His little body has enough to fight right now.

Declan continues to be up and down. His color is good. His belly is looking better. But he is still fighting. The surgeon keeps saying he needs to fight for another 2–3 weeks before they can safely go back in. So that’s the goal right now, just keep fighting.

These boys can’t seem to catch a break.

But they are fighters. And we are not giving up on them.

Please keep praying for:

• Colton’s PDA to respond to medication & His blood infection to clear quickly

• Declan’s strength to keep building & for his gut to have some healthy pieces left to grow.

We feel the prayers. Keep them coming, please. 🤍