It is fairly likely the white areas they saw in his chest cavity on the XRay was blood. The surgeon wants to see if they can try to localize specific areas that could be cauterized. It could be more generalized oozing. I honestly do not know which is worse. Perhaps since they are in there now it would be better if it is localized and could fix it. It is very important as they have to stop the bleeding to be able to really get the blood thinners going for the ecmo machine to do its job.
Thanks everyone for your comments. I have been reading them this morning and it is wonderful to hear from so many people, people who we see often, those we have not seen in a while and some not for a long while, hose who have traveled the PH or transplant journey and also people from our extended community who we have not necessarily met. It may sound corny but it is an incredible and real source of comfort. I will be reading them to Iain – from the very start.
Seema and John,
Sending my prayers for your brave young man. Words seem so inadequate, but know that I am thinking of you all.
Pallavi
We may be far geographically, but there are so many of us that are truly with you in spirit. Hopefully knowing all the love and support that’s out here for you and Iain can continue to buoy the strength you’ve always shown.
Dear Hess Family, you and Iain have been in our thoughts and prayers all day and night since we heard about Iain’s transplant. Praying for Iain, doctors, nurses, healing, and for you all as you wait. Sending big love and hugs to you all. All our love to you, The Coes
Stay strong Iain, we need you back in Boulder very soon.
To the entire Hess Family,
I just learned of Ian’s health and surgery. Our whole family is sending positive and happy thoughts your way. We are praying for all of you. You guys are such a strong family, we just know you will all be back in Boulder soon. All our love, Severson Family
Continued prayer for all! He is strong and conquered so much. Blessings to everyone! Bev Earley (PH Rocky Mountain SG)
Iain, you have so many people surrounding you with positive energy near and far. We are all champing at the bit to see you up and about again.
Seema and John, we are all loving on you from afar. I’m sure at times you must feel you’re in a lonely place despite all the many wonderful people around you. Just know you are not alone, we are all with you in spirit. Finally thank you for letting us borrow Simon for a while. What a great kid. He even laughs at Stephen’s jokes.
I just want you to know we’re thinking about you constantly. We’re checking first thing in the morning, last thing at night, and all day in between. It’s remarkable how loved you all are. I see names on the comments from so many different parts of my life – people I had no idea even knew you. If love were enough, Iain would be running a marathon by next week.
Iain, Seema and John –
Praying your amazing doctors nail this bleed so your body can get to work adapting to those new lungs. It’s been a long few days and Marina Lucas and I have had you in our thoughts constantly. Fingers crossed for today. Much love from Burbank
Seema, I’m sitting quietly beside you and holding your hand in spirit.