Emmett just got a new balloon from his cousins, Kole and Khloe, that has a big smily face on it. Plus at the BCCH Gift Shop they had a Sesame Street balloon that I simply couldn't pass up. Obviously, Emmett really enjoys this BUT the big news is that he is on the upswing and quickly becoming himself again. Emmett has a rhinovirus. Sounds like an ominous illness that you've never heard of before, but it's commonly referred to as a cold - which you have heard of and have likely had without thinking twice. Before it sounds like I'm passing it off lightly, a cold for a youngster with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Type 1 can have terrible consequences. Emmett will stay in the PICU at BC Children's Hospital for another day or two while they ensure that his lungs are cleared out. And it is because we often don't think twice about having a cold that Alisha and Josh are so protective of Emmett and keep him away from crowds and mandate that everyone who enters their home washes their hands and use hand sanitizer. No colds allowed.

While we were there yesterday (taking much needed fresh clothing and shower supplies), Emmett got chest physio and deep suctioning (that made me cringe but Emmett handled it like a pro) to assist his breathing. He was actually off of his BiPap machine for almost two hours. BiPap is Biphasic Positive Airway Pressure and this is a machine which provides a pressure controlled ventilation. It's more advanced than the CPap machine that you may have seen someone use for sleep apnea. On a normal day Emmett only uses his BiPap while he's sleeping at night or napping during the day. Since he got this cold, he has been on it much more. In fact, for 22 of yesterday's 24 hours. The medical staff is pleased with how Emmett is responding.

Upon arrival at the hospital he got an IV to get some extra fluids and drugs quickly. That's not needed right now but is still there 'just in case'. His little foot looks so cute!

Emmett, we love you and are praying for you. We look forward to having you home soon. Your 16 month birthday will be happening in just a few days! You need to spend it playing on your swing!

Alisha just sent an update that Emmett is doing even better today (Tuesday) and will be coming home on Wednesday! Way to go, Emmett.

Second Update: Emmett is coming home today - Tuesday!