Leo has had a big week of appointments! He had his check up in Denver and got a lot accomplished! First and foremost, he had a great cardiology check up! He also got a renal ultrasound, saw the pulmonologist, got a new GJ feeding tube, and had his eyes checked. At the last minute he also met with a cardiac dietician because he had not gained any weight since August. It was time to switch to a pediatric formula.

A couple of days after trying Pediasure, Leo began vomiting an alarming amount (10-13 times a day for three days) even after switching back to the infant formula he was on. We were in close contact with the heart transplant team and got labs drawn to check his blood count, med levels and electrolytes. They were fairly certain it was the formula change causing this, but Leo seemed to feel worse and worse as time went on. His good echo just a few days prior was reassuring, but rejection can be sneaky so we took him back to Denver to be on the safe side. The plan was to admit him to the hospital if he was still vomiting due to the risk of electrolyte imbalance.

We headed to Denver with packed bags and knew it was a good sign when Leo began talking and laughing during the car ride, something he had done for three days! Thankfully the vomiting had stopped and his echo looked great, which ruled out rejection as the cause. With Leo feeling so much better, we got to go back home that day.

Leo is in the process of switching to an organic, plant-based toddler formula that was recommended by the cardiac dietician. So far he seems to be tolerating it well! Unfortunately we have not been able to get this formula covered by insurance and the cost adds up quickly. Any amount of donations to COTA on behalf of Leo are greatly appreciated. Remember that all donations are tax deductible and your company may match them!

Check out our latest Birthday Bash event to help us raise $2,400 for COTA by December 24th! Happy Holidays to everyone reading!