Monday was the same story, with his fever hovering around 102. I wanted to wait out the fever 24 hours to give his body a chance to 'burn' the bug off. By evening it hit 103, so I caved and gave Motrin. Five hours later, once everyone was sleeping peacefully for the night, I checked his temp before heading to bed myself.
I was automatically sent into panic mode once the thermometer read 105.3. And then you're supposed to add a degree when taking it digitally! How is that possible? I temp of over 106! YOWZA!
Off to the ER we went. His temp read 104.7 and they immediately gave him a double dose of tylenol. The actual ER was completely booked, so we spent our time in the waiting room. While we were snuggled on a chair, I found myself surrounded by three other women. One was there for an injured arm, another for an injured finger and the third for a cold/cough.
Conversation between us flowed so easily, it seemed as though we'd known each other for some time. They asked about Parker and offered their sympathy about my worries, trying to reassure me. We were there for 3 hours, ample time for women to chat about life. We were all sharing stories, struggles and laughs. I know this sounds strange, but at times, it didn't seem like we were in an ER with strangers but rather at a coffee shop with friends.
By 1am, Parker's fever broke, so we decided to head home and call the doctor in the morning. As I bid goodbye to the women wishing them luck with their health, I was really looking forward to getting home to sleep. Instead, I found myself feeling kind of sad that I probably wouldn't ever see these women again. It was surprising to me, this connection that had just happened between complete strangers in a waiting room. And yet, the yogi in me, feels grateful to have met them and had such a great connection. Who knows, perhaps the Universe will unfold another event where we will meet and chat again.
Parker's fever didn't go anywhere, I'm afraid. Today is the first day he is fever free. Unfortunately he has a terrible cold. Hannah started this same sickness on Tuesday morning and is still battling the fever. This whole week has been filled with alternating Tylenol and Motrin every three hours. Even with that, their fevers hovered around 101.
The good news? We were allowed to skip Hannah's Enbrel injection, far too risky with a fever.
1 comment:
Hello! My name is Rachel English. I live in Dallas, Texas and I am 20 years old. I was diagnosed with RA in June of last year. I found the video of Hannah on your local news station through youtube and I just wanted to let you know how great I thought that was! I think it is so wonderfu that you were able to share her story and bring awareness to others! I read some of your blogs and I must admit, I am a little jealous of Hannahs strength!! I just started Humira, which is a self-injection like Enbrel, and I have had so much trouble with the shots! As much as I hate to see a young girl go through this disease I would like to let you know how it has lifted my spirits and given me strength. This disease takes a strong person with the will and determination to fight. From the looks of it, Hannah is well on her way! This is a terrible, terrible disease but it is a disease that we can fight! I can't imagine what you must go through watching your child suffer ... love, care, affection, support and understanding ... those are the most importnat things! Medicines can only do so much ... it is the power of love and the will to fight that keeps us walking. Keeping Hannah and your family in my prayers!
Rachel English
I would like to keep in touch and hear about Hannah's success with this disease! Below is my email address, I hope I hear from you!
Rachel_English@baylor.edu
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