Submitted by Mike on Fri, 08/31/2007 – 9:31am.

Hello Everyone-
It has been so nice to read all of your messages!!
I was released from the hospital last night. I am VERY swollen and tired but glad to be “free”! I have four incisions in my stomach. I am able to move around slowly although I’m hunched over and look 13 months pregnant!!! My arms are black and blue from the hourly blood draws and Iv’s. After surgery my blood levels did not return to normal and I had several long and painfull nights. As for now I am staying in a hotel that is about 4 blocks from the hospital. This is so I am close if things change with Brandon. Enough about me I know you all want to hear about Brandon.

Brandon was moved out of ICU around 4pm last night. He has been placed on a transplant floor. He is in a private room to try and prevent some common germs. He is still in an extreme amount of pain. He has not been able to eat or drink since Sunday, and was held yesterday for the first time. He is being kept flat on his back and has a central IV line in his neck. They are keeping him on strong pain medication and he’s in and out of sleep. He has made it clear to the nursing staff that he wishes to be called “King Baby Nolan” not Brandon and so far they are all playing along! He keeps asking for his shoes- because he wants to leave!

Transplant patients are watched very closley as things change hour by hour. Brandon has been no exception. He has needed two blood transfusions so far and we have been watching his blood pressure/heart rate very close. I have only been to see him twice as I find myself in too much pain to stand over his crib. I hope to visit today! My parents, Mikes mom and Mike have been rotating shifts. Someone has to be with Brandon and myself 24 hrs. a day. They are all {as you can imagine} exhausted. We would not be able to do it without there help! For those of you who have tried calling any of us, our phones are not allowed on Brandons floor as they interfere with the equipment. That is why it may take us a little while to get back to you. I will try to update you all again soon.

Please keep us in your prayers!
love,Julie