I put it off for as long as I could. As long as I felt it was safe, to be more accurate. I was hoping Ryan would produce a strong cough to clear his respiratory system. It didn’t happen.
So, earlier today I had to deep suction. A quick refresher on deep suction is a catheter is inserted into his nose, turns the nasal cavity, goes down the back of his throat to where the trachea splits to the lungs. Then suction is administered as it is withdrawn. Normally, this takes multiple times. Today it took three in each nostril.
Prior to doing this, I gave Ryan a nebulizer treatment with some solutions that open the airway and loosen secretion. I also spent a good deal of time giving chest therapy percussions (i.e., cupping my hands and beating on his chest).
Anyhow, the prep work seemed to have paid off. Ryan coughed and gagged a sizable amount of mucus out. He really hates this. I considered video recording it, but really, it’s hard to watch. For me doing it, I just need to put my emotions aside and do it. I don’t allow myself to think, else I get teary-eyed.
Ken, though Ryan cannot express his greatfullness to you, know that he knows what you’re doing. Ryan is greatful for every work you’ve done for him from day one. You are such a wonderful father to your son, and your wife is a lovely mother to your son as well. I’m so sorry again, your family has gone through so much. Stay strong Ryan family. Many thoughts and prayers are continually with you.
I am a respiratory therapist and have done this many times. Although it’s unpleasant and uncomfortable, I’ve had many patients tell me that they felt so much better after they were suctioned. If he could, I’m sure Ryan would tell you how much better you made him feel.
I pray that your tears of sacrifice today will be those of rejoicing very soon.
What a beautiful expression of hope! Well said, Ms. Blase.
I’m so sorry for what you all have to go through on a day to day basis. My heart goes out to you. I have so much admiration for your strength and determination. Stay strong my friend. As always, still here.
My prayers continue.
Ken, you’re doing what needs to be done and that’s awesome. Send you good thoughts & prayers today and always.
Dear Ken ,Wish you didn’t have to go through the deep suctioning,but thank God Ryan brought it up…You guys ARE really amazing and because of your great treatments for Ryan , I know he will keep improving. My thoughts and prayers and hopes for better days to come .Keep the faith. Gail
Im sure it upsets you but you need to understand that your only doing is whats best for Ryan and Everything you do is Great!
I get teary eyed just thinking about it! Ken, I will pass this info to you, don’t know if it is possible to get it for Ryan, but I would think so. Our nephew has Cystic Fibrosis. In order to clear the congestion out of the lungs, a Vest Airway Clearance System, by Hill-Rom, is used twice a day. I hope this is helpful. Still here with hope, love and prayers.
Ken, I don’t know what else to say except that I think you’re an awesome human being. I really do………prayers, love, encouragement, positive thoughts being sent your way