THE HALLMON FAMILY BLOG

With Flying Colors

2010-05-17T07:32:00.003-05:00

We took Kohen to Children's on Wednesday to have the deflux procedure. He could not have anything other than clear items to eat or drink after midnight Tuesday night. He woke up Wednesday morning and didn't even ask for his milk. We were able to give him some pedialyte, jello and a popsicle for breakfast. He was a sticky mess but enjoyed the unusual treat.

We arrived early at the hospital and they called him back right away. They gave him crayons, coloring sheets, playdough and a Mr. Potato Head and put us in a room to watch cartoons.

The anestheiologist came in to ask us if he needed anything to calm him before he went back...but to her surprise, he was just sitting in the bed as happy as could be. He never once asked for anything to eat or drink.

At 12:45, our sweet friend, April, came and took him back to the OR. About an hour later Dr. Herndon told us that he did great and the procedure went as planned. He said he could still see where he had done the deflux procedure last July and it looked good.

About 2:15, they brought Kohen to us. As soon as he was in the room, he wanted his daddy to hold him and he wanted the IV out of his foot! He drank some fruit punch and was ready to go. He was such a sweet boy. He ran a little fever that night but was ready to go the next day.

We will return in one month for follow-up tests to see how his bladder and left kidney are functioning.

God is so good...we have been blessed to see His awesome healing power displayed in the life of Kohen. He has answered so many prayers large and small. He really does bear our burdens and load us with benefits.

Kohen's Test Report

2010-04-23T14:03:00.001-05:00

We praise God for His continued goodness in the life of Kohen.

Yesterday morning as I was praying before we left for the hospital, I kept telling God that I was anticipating Him. As I opened up my devotional for the day it was entitled, “Expecting God. Once again God made Himself so real to me.

Kohen did fabulous with the first test. He laid still and watched cartoons unlike ever before. As we began the second test, he was okay until the doctor touched him. (There were not cartoons in this room.) He turned red and cried big tears, I think out of fear of the big machines and computers. After a few minutes he calmed down and laid completely still for the entire test.
Our doctor told us the procedure he did last July worked for the right kidney and it continues to function normally. He then told us that the left kidney was still having some problems although it was greatly improved since the procedure last July.

He also told us Kohen has Grade 5 reflux into his kidneys, which is the most severe reflux. With this severity they usually do an invasive surgery for repair; the doctor does not normally even try the procedure from last July. And even when he uses it he only has about a 20% success rate. He said Kohen was a “special” case. And of course we know that is because He has the hand of God and the power of the Holy Spirit all over him because of our persistent prayer and the love God.

Dr. Herndon will do another deflux procedure on the left side on May. They will have to put him to sleep for this procedure.

We will keep you posted on the details as it gets closer to time. We continue to covet your prayers for his total healing! Our God is mighty to save and heal. We give Him all praise!

One other thought: I was praying before we went that God's presence would be over our family - that people would look at us and see that we were different. When Dr. Herndon's nurse called us yesterday afternoon to set up the May procedure, she told me that she had told the testing nurse that morning that we were one of two of her family families that Dr. Herndon saw. That just assured me that God had answered my prayers. Pray that we will be HIS light to everyone we come in contact with at the hospital.

Two Year Tests

2010-04-20T21:07:00.000-05:00

We are taking Kohen to Birmingham Thursday morning for our yearly tests on his bladder. He is doing GREAT - thanks to the Lord's mighty hand and ourstretched arm on his life! We are anticipating only good news.

We do ask that you pray for his bladder to be ready. He had some traces of bacteria this weekend that we are treating with new antibiotics.

Also, we ask prayer for him as he has to lie still for about 30 minutes for them to place the dye in his bladder and take all the computerized pictures. He's not really in the business of "sitting" still these days! So, pray we can keep him entertained. :)

Thanks so much for your continued prayers!!

Kohen's report from Children's

2010-01-23T09:05:00.001-06:00

We continue to stand amazed at God’s hand upon Kohen’s life. I assure you that we have a God in heaven who knows us by name and who is concerned about the details of our lives. Friday we took Kohen back to Children’s for our four month ultrasound and check up.

I have been praying specific Scriptures over Kohen that God would heal his left kidney. This kidney is the one that he has had the most problems with since birth. The doctor told us yesterday that the ultrasound showed the left kidney functioning normal with no dilation. God heard and God answered. To Him be all praise and glory and honor. For the first time since his birth – both of Kohen’s kidneys are functioning together in a normal range. Praise God!

We don’t always understand why life has the ups and downs that it does. But I assure you that God has taught me these last 20 months that if the sun is out – we praise Him and if the storm is blustering all around – we praise Him. It is all about us having a personal relationship with Him, trusting Him, believing Him, focusing on Him and pointing others to WHO HE IS – Creator and Redeemer!

Praise be to our God who daily bears our burdens – who daily loads us with benefits! (Psalm 68:19)

We take Kohen back in May for more tests, checking bladder growth and bacteria to help determine the type of antibiotics he needs. Please continue to believe with us for a total healing. We know that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than we ask (Ephesians 3) or think for His glory!

Merry CHRISTmas

2009-12-20T21:28:00.003-06:00

Christmas 2009

“Blessed be the Lord who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation!” ~ Psalm 38:19

This year has been a testimony of God’s grace to our family. Space is not enough to tell of the wondrous works the Father has performed in our lives.

Kohen received an outstanding report in September following his surgery in July. His right kidney is functioning normal and his left kidney has made remarkable improvements. We are praying for a total healing for him in the Lord’s timing. He is now 20 months old, weighing 24 pounds and is 27 inches tall. He is climbing on furniture, discovering the world and is wide-eyed at every turn. He enjoys music and animals. What an amazing gift God has given our family. Indeed Kohen was fearfully and wonderfully made!

Braxton is 4 ½ years old. He attends preschool two days a week, story time at the library, swimming lessons and mission friends at church. He keeps quite a social calendar! He still enjoys music and books. He is learning to read short three and four letter word books and has quite an imagination! Currently, he is preparing to be a shepherd in the preschool musical & play.

Tanya stays busy chasing after Kohen and taking Braxton to all his activities. In her “spare” time, she enjoys reading book, studying the Bible and keeping up with her friends on the computer. She continues to teach the young adult Sunday school class and direct Vacation Bible school. God blessed her in healing her knee after hardware removal surgery in October.

Sky stays busy at work and with church and community activities. He took Kohen to his first Auburn football game this year and took Braxton to several games. He also has taken an interest in turkey hunting and killed his first turkey this past spring.

We can only anticipate the benefits that God will bring us in the new year as we continue to discover his mercy and grace in new and exciting ways.

Hark! the herald angels sing, “Glory to the new born King!”

A "Normal" Right Kidney

2009-09-11T18:36:00.001-05:00

We are so incredibly thrilled and in awe of our amazing God - the Sovereign Lord and Healer. Today the surgeon told us that Kohen's right kidney was "normal" - a word we have never heard the first 16 months of his life! Praise God!! The left kidney is amazingly better - not yet "normal" but so much better. He showed us the ultrasound from May and then the one from today - HUGE difference!

We just want everyone to know the God we serve is alive and real. He hears our prayers and answers them.

Follow up

2009-09-10T12:12:00.000-05:00

We are taking Kohen back to Birmingham tomorrow for a check up after this last surgery (six weeks ago). Pray with us that God is using this procedure to heal the reflux into his kidneys. We are blessed because this is a new procedure they have only been doing for three years and could replace the next major surgery if it works.

Surgery Results

2009-07-29T15:55:00.000-05:00

We are so thankful that God has brought us through another surgery. Our sweet baby did great and Dr. Herndon was pleased with the procedure. He also had many positive comments about his exploration of the bladder. We should know in four to six weeks how this is working out. Other than being a little off balance from the anathesia, he is eating and drinking well and playing as usual.

"Praise be to the Lord, to our God and Savior, who daily bears our burdens." ~ Psalm 68:19

Procedure this Wednesday July 29

2009-07-26T15:40:00.002-05:00

Please pray for Kohen this Wednesday. Dr. Herndon is going to put him back to sleep and do a procedure that will help with his kidney reflux. He had a bad infection two weeks ago. Dr. Herndon feels like this will buy us some time until he is big enough (probably age 2) to have a more detailed surgery to correct this problem.

New SpringWidget

2009-06-10T16:04:00.001-05:00

Get this widget!

New Pictures

2009-05-29T14:30:00.001-05:00

Many of you have wanted Sky to update the pictures. Just click on the webpage to the left and you can see Kohen's one year photos!

Urodynamic Testing Results

2009-05-28T18:45:00.005-05:00

This morning I (Tanya) woke up very early. The very first words my eyes hit on the page of my devotional were Psalm 107:20, "He sent forth his word and healed them." Last night at church we had prayer for Kohen. The Scripture prayed over him was awesome and as my eyes fell afresh on this Scripture, I was filled with peace and assurance for the day.

We arrived a little early and they took us back for the ultrasound and brought us back down for the next test. Dr. Herndon was timely and started right away.

Kohen was able to take his bottle for lunch during the test and by the last sip, Dr. Herndon was finished - about 30 minutes sooner than expected. Kohen experienced no bleeding or pain. Dr. Herndon did not have to use needles - as was described in the paperwork they sent us ahead of time. Kohen laid still the entire time...I was amazed -- these were all direct answers to prayer.

Dr. Herndon said that Kohen's bladder had grown ten times the size it was at first and that was a great sign.

He still has the reflux into the kidneys so he is planning a surgery sometime in the next year to correct this problem. He said the longer we can wait the better, giving his bladder more time to grow preventing subsequent surgeries. However, the number of urinary tract infections he has will dictate how long we wait to do the surgery.

Overall, Dr. Herndon was very positive about Kohen' progress and Kohen was very calm and very cordial during the test. Today's visit was so much better than we had imagined it might be! Thanks be to God who answered all our requests exceedingly abundantly beyond what we asked or thought (Ephesians 3).

"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for his goodness, And for the wonderful works to the children of men!" Psalm 107:1,9

Happy 1st Birthday Kohen

2009-05-06T12:51:00.003-05:00

Kohen turns a year old on Saturday. We can't believe it! He is so big...cruising everywhere and taking a few independent steps. He has 6 teeth and loves food! We had his party this past Saturday and he loved the cake...trying to put all 4 fingers and both hands in his mouth at once! :)

I recently found in my Bible the notes I took from a sermon that our pastor preached the Sunday before Kohen was born. It was entitled “the Miraculous Deliverance” from II Kings 4:1-7.

These were his three points:
1. Miracles come in our lives in the time of greatest need.
(Psalm 33:21). We must trust God and He must be the priority in our lives.

2. Miracles occur to build our faith.
(John 20:30) We must empty ourselves of “self” so that we can be filled with the oil (i.e. the Holy Spirit).

3. Miracles occur to show God’s glory. (John 11:40-44)

As I read through these notes, I thought they described perfectly what happened in the days following Kohen's birth. We were in great need. Our faith was built. Kohen is a testimony to God’s glory. Wow! How profound these words are one year from when we first heard them.

10 Months Old

2009-03-14T07:12:00.005-05:00

Kohen is ten months old - we can't believe he is so big! Yesterday the nurse told us he is just shy of 21 pounds. So when we left the doctor, we went to ToysRUs and purchased him a new and larger car seat.

He continues to "speed" crawl and is crusing around the coffee table - not yet ready to let go and take off. His hips and pelvis seem to be adjusting to his movements fine as we can tell. He is into everything. He likes buttons...the computer, television, remote controls and the phone. He is determined to cling to the heater (which we don't use, thank goodness) and to find the toilet should his brother leave the bathroom door open. :)

He continues to smile and laugh and say mama and now dada. Two words to describe Kohen - energetic and happy!

We saw Dr. Herndon yesterday. The ultrasound showed that he still has reflux into his kidneys - not what we wanted to hear. But we have new instructions for treatment and will return in May for urodynamics testing. Basically this means Dr. Herndon will fill his bladder up and watch it for a couple of hours, how is filling and emptying and how much it has grown. He said that when Kohen's bladder grows large enought, he can go in and work on the reflux. Our prayer is for a total healing of his ureters over the next two months - something that would blow Dr. Herndon away and he would know God is on the move.

We praise God that Kohen has not had another infection since the first of February. We are trying to build his immune sysytem, not only with the antibiotics but also with lots of good foods (those all natural antioxidants God gave us), especially rich color berries. Please continue to pray for a strengthened immune system.

Thank you for your prayers and e-mails. We just take things one day at a time and from ultrasound to ultrasound.

A note on Braxton: He is doing great! He loves playing with Kohen - they are so sweet together. He is as busy as every but is a really good helper! He spends the weekend with his Nannie and Granddaddy when we take Kohen to the doctor and always has a ball!

Nine Months Old

2009-02-12T08:07:00.002-06:00

Kohen turned nine months old this week. His infection is clearning and he is back to his old self.

He is pulling up and trying to figure out how to hold on and cruise. We are amazed and mom is a bit overprotective because of his pelvis...but dad says he is a tough Hallmon boy!

His is saying mamamama and know that this gets mama's attention, especially when he wants something. He is still our Mr. Happy, smiling all the time, except when he is fighting the infections.

Braxton loves Kohen so much. The play together on the floor and hug each other. They are both precious gifts from God.

We continue to see God at work through Kohen's little body. We will see Dr. Herndon for our follow-up ultrasound on March 13.

Infection Update

2009-02-05T13:45:00.001-06:00

Dr. Herndon decided to try a rarely prescribed antibiotic and see him back for an ultasound rather than hospitalize.

His color and appetite are improving. Thank you so much for your prayers!!

Prayer Request Today

2009-02-04T10:20:00.000-06:00

Please pray for Kohen.

He has been running fever off and on for 9 days. The pediatrician ran some blood tests and urine tests. The preliminary results show that he has a "dangerous" germ in his bladder - that is how Dr. Farmer (pediatrician) stated it. This is the second time in 5 weeks we have seen this particular bacteria.

Dr. Farmer is waiting for some more lab reports to come in and consult with Dr. Herndon (specialist). He forewarned me that because this is a dangerous bacteria reoccuring that they may have to hospitilize Kohen in Birmingham and give him stronger antibiotics.

Please ask God to give the doctors the wisdom to know what is best for Kohen and please ask God to begin total healing in his body even now and that God's hand can be seen all over Kohen.

We have already received 4 antibiotic injections in the last two days that appears to have helped Kohen's eating, sleeping and alertness. But Dr. Farmer said that this particular bacteria is resistant to the injections.

Dr. Farmer said he would call me late Wed. afternoon to instruct us what to do next.

Christmas Update

2009-01-17T11:52:00.003-06:00

Sorry it has been so long since an update.

We traveled off and on for two weeks at Christmas, returned home to a week of revival at church and lots of rain which means Sky has been working 12 hour days for the last two weeks.

We had an absolutely blessed Christmas with our family and two precious boys!

Kohen ran fever for the two weeks we traveled. He had two viruses and another urinary tract infection. However, this time it was a different bacteria and not the protius. After a trip to the pediatrician while we were in Dothan and new antibiotics, his urine culture from last week came back clean. Praise the Lord!

When you are sick so much, you learn to truly appreciate the days you are well!

Kohen is trying to pull up and wants to stand if you hold his fingers. He is forever on the move and wants to play with Braxton all the time...fortunately, Braxton usually wants to play with him too!

We return to see Dr. Farmer on February 11 for our 9 month check up.

Great Report - December 19

2008-12-19T22:19:00.002-06:00

Kohen received a great report today! Dr. Herndon said the last surgery did exactly what it should have. The pressure in the bladder is down tremendously. His kidneys and ureters look awesome. He has a little urine in the left kidney...this is the same kidney that had reflux at birth. But it is not anything to be worried about.

It appears that he had a small infection from the culture last week. We treated it with new antibiotics as a precautionary measure. But his fever is gone and the mouth sores have healed. He is eating like a horse again!! He is 18 pounds and 2 ounces!

We don't have to return for a check up for THREE MONTHS!! That is the longest we have gone since birth without seeing our surgeon. But he feels confident in Kohen's progess.

We continue to see miracles daily in Kohen's life. We praise God for His manifestation to us through Kohen.

We wish all of you a merry Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Savior...and experience the miraculous of God as flesh dwelling among us in the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger!

December Update

2008-12-15T07:20:00.002-06:00

Kohen was doing great until last week when he started running another fever. However this time he had contracted a virus that attacked his mouth with blisters. The drs still ran a urine culture to try and rule out a urinary infection. His white blood cell count was slightly elevated.

He didn't want to eat for us for a couple of days. But he is back going strong now. Additionally, he decided Saturday that he was tired of playing on the blanket and started crawling from room to room. It was as if it happened overnight.

We return to see Dr. Herndon on the 19th for another ultrasound to see if the bladder pressure is down since our last surgery. Please pray with us that it is down and that these cultures reveal no infection!

Great Report

2008-11-24T14:41:00.003-06:00

Kohen went through the procedure with flying colors. The surgeon found exactly what he expected, removing the skin blockage from inside the urethra. He has inserted a tube to help with dilation, removing the pressure off the bladder. We will have this removed Wednesday morning.

Dr. Herndon is going to have us do some precautionary things at home for a while to make sure the bladder pressure remains normal. He said everything else in the urinary tract looks great from the previous surgery. Dr. Herndon is very optomistic about Kohen's prognosis.

We praise God for His hand at work in Kohen's life! What a wonderful gift for this Thanksgiving season!

Kohen Procedure Rescheduled

2008-11-23T15:27:00.000-06:00

Kohen's procedure has been rescheduled for Monday, November 24 at 7:15 a.m. We will blog something when the surgeon tells us how things went.

Infection Update

2008-11-16T16:17:00.002-06:00

We saw the doctor at Children's South this morning. Kohen's fever is still elevated and he has another urinary tract infection. Therefore, Dr. Herndon changed his antibiotics and postponed the surgery. We will find out Monday morning what our new surgery date is.

Kohen Fever

2008-11-16T07:29:00.002-06:00

Kohen started running fever Sat. So we have had 102 for 24 hours. Dr. Herndon told me last night that we need to run a urine culture to see if there is infection. If he has fever or has an infection, Dr. Herndon said we will like change antibiotics and do the exploratory surgery on Wednesday. We are headed to children's south this morning for an appointment and culture. We will let you know as we know.

Kohen Procedure on Monday

2008-11-14T19:33:00.003-06:00

We went for our monthly check up and ultrasound today and received some unexpected news. Kohen has high pressure in his bladder cauing urine to reflux into his kidneys. Dr. Herndon will put Kohen to sleep this Monday (Nov. 17) at 7:15 A.M. to conduct exploratory surgery to see what is causing this pressure. He thinks it may be related to a blockage in his urethra. This procedure should be outpatient.

Please pray that he can so something to relieve the pressure in his bladder.

We saw Dr. Farmer (pediatrician) on Tuesday and he said that Kohen looks great and is well other than his bladder issues. He weighs 17 pounds and is 27 inches long. He smiles ALL the time...we call him "Mr. Happy."

Other news on the homefront:

Braxton had an allergic reaction to antibiotics last week that were used to treat a dermatological problem he was having on his abdomen. We saw the dermatologist today and he burned off the spots...about 12 that Braxton had...they are blistering up tonight and he is crying because he says they burn and itch. Hopefully in the next couple of days this will improve.

Tanya finally saw the chiropractor and found out that she has been walking around (and hauling around boys) with a slightly dislocated right shoulder. He put it back in place and it has popped out again. He says if she can't keep it in, he will have to put her arm in a sling for 6 weeks to allow the muscles to heal...not good...mommies aren't allowed to be sick.

Sky is good...says he goes to work everyday so the rest of his family can go to the doctor :)

Culture Report

2008-11-01T21:08:00.002-05:00

We are pleased to report Kohen's culture came back clear. We have finished the high power antibiotics and are back on the regular once a day antibiotics.

Kohen is doing great! He is rolling across the room and wants to push up on his legs...which we aren't sure is an okay thing just yet. He smiles ALL the time, except when he is sleepy. :)

We return for another ultra sound & check up on Nov. 14.

Braxton is having some dermatological problems on his abdomen and has been taking antibiotics as well. We have an appointment for him on Nov. 14 too.

Pray for Tanya. She has pulled something in her lower back working with Kohen and is in quite a bit of pain. She sees the chiropractor on Nov. 7 which will hopefully help things!

We praise God for his continued faithfulness to us!!

Some day when Sky has time, we will try to have him post some of our latest pictures of the boys!

Infection Update

2008-10-22T18:45:00.003-05:00

We are learning more about the kind of infection Kohen has. It is called proteus mirabilis. As we have researched this bacterium, we are realizing the potential complications associated with it.

Please pray with us that God will heal his body of this infection and put up a wall of defense in his body to protect him from reoccurence and the possible complications that can develop.

Please pray that the antibiotics will do their job.

We return to the doctor on Tuesday (28th) for further lab work. We will let you know more then.

We know that God designed Kohen's body and that he is fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of his Creator. Therefore, we know God is in control.

Infection

2008-10-20T16:45:00.002-05:00

Dr. Herndon called and Kohen has a urine infection...guess that is what was causing the high fever. They are changing his medicine for the next 10 days.

His fever is down significantly...only low grade last night.

Two Months Post Surgery

2008-10-18T01:44:00.004-05:00

Kohen received a good report at his check up. The renal ultrasound revealed the kidneys and bladder emptying properly. The doctor is pleased with our wet diapers and seems to think the small hole at the base of the incision is healing. We praise God for His power at work in Kohen's little body.

Kohen's fever is still up and down. The doctor is running urine cultures and will let us hear on Tuesday from those. For now he has changed his antibiotic.

Unless something changes, we will return in one month for another ultrasound and three month check up.

As for the knot on his head, Dr. Herndon looked at it but was not concerned. It has decreased significantly in size and redness!

Thanks for all the prayers lifted on our behalf!

Fever Update

2008-10-16T16:39:00.002-05:00

Kohen's fever spiked during the night at 104. The pediatrician wanted to see him this morning. They consulted with Dr. Joseph at Children's. They ran blood work, urine culture & chest x-rays. Right now his white blood cell count is slightly elevated, but they think that is not unusual for bladder exstrophy patients or for viral infections, which they think may be his case.

Later today, he developed a red knot-like goose egg on the side of his head. The pediatrician said we could come back in today or let Dr. Herndon look at it tomorrow. Sky decided to just wait. He thinks it may be where he was laying funny in the car seat?

His fever is still spiking up to 104-ish but we are treating with tylenol.

Will let you hear when we have our ultrasound and check up on Friday.

Fever Request

2008-10-15T18:37:00.003-05:00

Just a quick note. Kohen has a fever of 103.3. He isn't responding this evening to tylenol so we are giving him ibuprofin. Please pray for him. We see Dr. Herndon this Friday for our renal ultrasound.

Hitting the Road

2008-10-09T13:38:00.003-05:00

Kohen is making his first long distance trip since surgery to see Grandmother and Echo this weekend. Granny Woodham is very excited about this visit as well.

For those of you who were praying about his bowels, Praise God that today he had his first bowel movement without help from mom since we arrived home from the hospital. The pediatrician put him on prescription meds on Tuesday to help in this area.

Additionally, he has started eating prunes, which he loves and is obviously good for him!

Otherwise, Kohen is happy and interactive! We anticipate a good trip and will see Dr. Herndon on the 17th. We'll let you know how our check-up goes!

Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!

This Week

2008-10-05T15:37:00.004-05:00

Kohen is doing great! He handled his immunization just fine. We were surprised that he weighed in at 15 lbs and 8 oz at his appointment last week. He is growing so big, smiling all the time. Maybe when Sky has a free minute he can post some new pictures!

This is the week our surgeon is off to Hawaii to compete in the Ironman competition. When he returns, Kohen has his 4 week appt (10/17). Then they will do a renal ultrasound and see how things are going. From all indications the bladder is working great because we have many wet diapers each day!

Please continue to pray for the tiny hole below his incision, as well as his abdominal spot to heal and that we will get a good report for these on the 17th!

Because of the Lord's compassion, we are not consumed. Great is His faithfulness!
Lamentations 3: 22

Things Continue to Improve

2008-09-27T19:27:00.004-05:00

We want to thank everyone for your prayers. Kohen is eating and sleeping much better. We are starting to introduce solids.

His yeast infection is much improved. He starts a new antibiotic tomorrow...so we will see how this affects him. He also has to recieve an immunization that our doctors recommend on Monday. Please pray for his little body to have no side effects of this immunization.

He constantly rolls to his stomach when placed on his back. This morning he rolled to his back from his stomach. He is in constant motion even in his swing or bouncy seat.

We praise God for the miracles we see daily in his life!

Rollin'

2008-09-23T16:50:00.002-05:00

Before his surgery, we watched our sweet boy struggle unsuccessfully to roll to his side. He could never get on his side because his pelvis was so wide. The last three nights when we have put him in his bed, he has easily rolled to his side to sleep.

This afternoon while he was playing on his activity mat, he rolled all the way over on his tummy! It is a precious sight to us because we know the surgery has already made a difference in his life! God has healed him so that he can roll...we praise God for this small task that is so huge to us!!

We ask for continued prayers for:
1. Kohen's pelvis as he starts to roll and bear weight on the pelvis
2. Kohen to return to an "at home" sleeping routine and off of the weird "hospital" schedule!

Long Term Prayer Requests

2008-09-20T17:05:00.002-05:00

First, let us ask if there are still people reading the blog. Our time is somewhat limited and we want to keep people informed the best way possible. Please let us know if the blog is helpful.

** The yeast infection has returned. This is probably something we will battle as long as we are on the antibiotics.

** Kohen has a small opening at the base of his incision. The doctor said about 80% of his patients have this type of opening. It should close on its own. If it does not, he said we would possibly have another surgery in January/February to correct this problem.

** Dr. Herndon said in 100% of his patients, the pelvis shifts open again once the child begins to bear weight on the legs. Each case varies in the degree of opening. Please pray that Kohen’s shifting will be minimal. They told us that if the shift is significant or painful, they can do a reparative surgery later in life.

** Finally, Dr. Herndon said he would monitor the growth of the organs of his urinary tract and perform surgeries according to the growth & function or lack thereof. We pray that everything will function as God created and he will not have to have additional surgeries.

Check Up with Dr. Herndon

2008-09-20T17:00:00.002-05:00

We had our one week check up with Dr. Herndon. Words he used to describe Kohen’s progress were “excellent, awesome and perfect!”

Dr. Herndon removed the bladder tube and with it came the drain tube. He said that wasn’t a problem since it was draining so little.

He will see Kohen again in four weeks. Instead of running tests now they will wait until we return in October.

"Who is so great a God as our God? You are the God who does wonders;
You have declared Your strength among the peoples,
You have with Your arm redeemed Your people."
Psalm 77:13-14

Check Up with Dr. Farmer

2008-09-20T15:54:00.001-05:00

We had our four month check up with Dr. Farmer. He said Kohen looks and sounds great! He was only able to do a limited exam of the lower part of his body due to restrictions on his hips and the tubes.

He weighed in at 15 pounds 1 ounce and is 26 ½ inches long (this is the 92 percentile)! We aren’t sure where the length is coming from, but he is a healthy boy!

He is having difficulty adjusting to sleeping schedules now that we are home. Please pray for this need as it involves the entire family. Seems like we are more exhausted at home than at the hospital.

Braxton arrived home Tuesday afternoon, very excited to see Kohen. We are all together at last!

Home Sweet Home

2008-09-15T20:07:00.003-05:00

We made it home about 2:00 p.m. today. Yea!

Dr. Herndon was pleased with Kohen's progress over the weekend. He said the cultures showed a skin bacteria which isn't a big deal. He is on antibiotics twice a day.

Kohen still has two tubes that will eventually come out as he continues to heal.

We will return on Friday of this week for our first check up.

As of now, the doctors think that he may face future surgeries as his little body grows unless the Lord intervenes. However, none of them should be as extensive as the one we just completed.

We will continue to blog Kohen's journey and let you know of the great and mighty things the Lord is doing in our family.

We also wanted to add a link about our surgeon, Dr. Herndon. He is a wonderful man who is competing in an Ironman competition next month in Hawaii, raising money for Children's Hospital. He is so committed to helping children, like Kohen, that we wanted to share about his efforts. www.active.com/donate/tonyherndon

Thanks again for all your prayers and support in this journey. God has been so good to us--that is such an understatement. Please join us in giving Him all the praise and glory for Kohen's "amazing" and "excellent" (to use our doctors words) recovery.

We love you all!

Still Waiting on Cultures

2008-09-14T10:15:00.003-05:00

The doctor said this morning that the culture reports are still pending.

They are testing the cultures (from the abdominal spot) with different antibiotics to see to which one the bacteria responds.

The on-call doctor said Kohen looks great and from all indications will be ready to go home whenever the lab finishes the cultures. However, we have no idea when that will be.
We've been told that sometimes things are slower on the weekend. And so, we are just hanging out. We are not getting our hopes up about going home any day until they come in and announce we are going...

They took Kohen's IV out at midnight last night because it wasn't working properly. So, he is taking antibiotics by mouth again.

We also gave Kohen a good sponge bath last night...the best one since he came out of traction. His back looks really good and his little legs improve daily with blood flow.

Kohen continues to enjoy his wagon rides around the hospital...looks like he wants to be on the go just like his daddy and big brother!

Saturday Report

2008-09-13T11:07:00.002-05:00

Well, it appears we will spend another night here.

The cultures from the abdominal spot taken in the OR Thursday are not back yet. Dr. Herndon wants to have these results so he will know what type of antibiotics we need at home.

Kohen is doing fabulous! Last night we were able to put him in his car seat, place the car seat in a wagon and take him for a ride around the hospital. He seemed in awe of the people and lights.

He is making wet diapers and the drs seem pleased with these results.

The drain tube is still draining minimal and staying flush with his skin.

Everyday is a better day and we hope that home is in our horizon.

Friday Afternoon

2008-09-12T17:53:00.002-05:00

Drs. Joseph & Clark came by early this morning and said Kohen looked good. Dr. Joseph said we would cap the bladder tube today so Kohen can start making wet diapers on his own. Pray that his urinary system works as God created it to.

They are also keeping a close eye on his drain tube. It drained quite a bit yesterday but not much today. The abdominal spot is remains flush with the skin and looks good.

Kohen's legs are great in color. We are able to manage his pain with regular Tylenol during the day and ibuprofen at night.

His eating well, resting well and smiling big.

We continue to give God the glory for taking care of our sweet boy!

Water Update

2008-09-12T09:52:00.002-05:00

The nurse told us they cut the water to the hospital off to see where the leak was from the road crew's drilling.

So by the time we went to bed at 10:30 p.m. they had cut the water to the hospital back on!

What a blessing to brush our teeth, potty, clean bottles and wash our hands after changing diapers!

Let's all thank God for clean water today...a blessing we realized we took for granted!

We Need Water

2008-09-11T21:36:00.001-05:00

Guess what?? Its 9:30 pm on Thursday night.

The road crew is drilling outside the hospital and hit a water line...so we are out of water...not real good for sanitation...

and so our prayer request is for clean water!!

You don't realize how much you need water until you don't have it!

Of course, Kohen is oblivious to the fact... :)

Out of Traction/Returning from the OR

2008-09-11T14:24:00.001-05:00

Kohen came out of traction about 8:00 a.m. The dr. said his legs look “amazing!” And Kohen looks great! It is evident God’s hand has been all over Kohen’s little body. I’ll try to get Sky to post a picture of Kohen with Dr. Herndon if we can.

They took him down to the OR about 11:30. They gave him gas to sleep. Dr. Herndon put in the drain tube which only took about 20 minutes. It is fairly complicated to explain what all he told us. So, I will just keep it simple. Unless the pocket completely drains, we will have to go home with this tube and drainage viles.

Dr. Herndon said that as the pocket continues to drain the skin will heal. Kohen is receiving antibiotics through an IV. Dr. Herndon wants to monitor him until at least Saturday.

We just returned from recovery. Kohen is resting. The nurses in recovery said he was a little fussy but took some pedialyte and felt better.

Thank you for your prayers. God hears and answers! We thank Him for continuing to watch over our precious baby boy.

2008-09-11T14:24:00.000-05:00

2008-09-10T15:59:00.002-05:00

Doctor Herndon said the pocket looked a little smaller today.

He said he would be in around 7:00 am on Thursday to take him out of traction.

He said the pocket probably would not drain on its own in the room...I think he doesn't want me to be disappointed...so he has a slot set up in the OR.

But WE know our God is big enough...so would you please ask God to defy the laws of gravity and medicine for us!!

Also from what we understand, coming out of traction (as excited as we are) may be painful for Kohen...we'd appreciate prayer as well for that...

We will try to blog tomorrow as soon as we know something...I don't think his OR spot is until 11:00 a.m. since he can have pedialyte until 2 hrs before he goes in and the dr said I could give him some at 9:00 a.m.

Culture Results & Plan of Action

2008-09-08T12:58:00.003-05:00

Dr. Herndon said the culture from the abdomen spot revealed urine is filling the cavity, which is what he expected.

He also said the urine culture from the bladder tube showed some bacteria growing, which is to be expected when a tube has been in for this long. For precautionary measures, he is resuming the antibiotics three times a day. He said we may have to fight a yeast infection if it returns. Please pray against infection.

The spot on Kohen’s abdomen is still of concern. Dr. Herndon said that we would plan to take Kohen out of traction on Thursday. He said he could take him down to the OR and put him to sleep for about 10 minutes and insert a small tube to drain the pocket on his abdomen. However, he wants to try two things in the room first and avoid the OR if possible.

Dr. Herndon is going to prep him for the OR regardless. So, Kohen cannot have anything to eat after midnight Wed. Pray for this as well. For his first surgery, at least I could hold him. This time he will still be in traction part of the time he cannot eat.

Please pray that this area will drain without putting Kohen back to sleep.

Other than this area, Kohen looks wonderful. The doctor said that his legs are doing great with minimal breakdown as we are into the third week!

For those of you who received a call about praying for the air conditioning, it is up and working again! Thank you for your prayers!

What an Awesome God!

2008-09-05T16:19:00.002-05:00

Have we told you lately what an awesome God we serve?

“Since ancient time no one has heard no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides You, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him. – Isaiah 64:4

Dr. Clark came in this afternoon to gather the culture. When I asked him if he was going to deaden the site before sticking Kohen with the needle, he said he had spoken with Dr. Herndon and he was not going to use a needle. He said that Dr. Herndon felt like Dr. Clark could just apply pressure, absorb it and squeeze it into the culture! So – no needle!! Praise God!

While he was in, Dr. Clark also removed the right kidney tube…that was a pleasant surprise! He also rewrapped his legs in traction and said the skin breakdown is still minimal.

Kohen also had a good bowel movement today. We are still working to help him in this area…so we’d appreciate the continued prayers in this department.

As I type this, Braxton is standing beside me singing Victory in Jesus..what a wonderful reminder from a three year old of the day we have had today!

Thank you for your prayers!

Urgent Prayer Need this Morning

2008-09-05T07:17:00.002-05:00

The abdomenal pocket that drained yesterday filled again last night when he was having a crying/screaming spell. He is constipated and we are trying everythinig we can to get him to go. But he is straining and crying and we watched the pocket fill up.

Dr. Joseph (senior partner) with Dr. Herndon wants to draw fluid out of the pocket and send it for a culture. He instructed the resident Dr. Clark on how to do that this morning.

I am not excited about them sticking a needle in there b/c of what Dr. Herndon told me 2 weeks ago. But I trust Dr. Joseph. I am also not excited about the resident doing it since he was not in surgery with Dr. Herndon. But Dr. Herndon is at the other hospital today. So, if the other doctors trust the resident, then I must. You know I'd just rather have my surgeon do it.

Please pray for the constipation and for this tiny drawing of the culture. It will be sometime this morning.

Two Milestones

2008-09-04T14:27:00.000-05:00

“He will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast on You because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3

Today has been a great day! This morning the resident came in early to remove the left kidney tube. Kohen did great! He cried just a little during and after the removal. But we were able to soothe him and get him back to sleep. Dr. Clark said that Kohen is the happiest baby he has ever seen!

After lunch Dr. Herndon came in to do his routine exam. While he was examining the spot on Kohen’s abdomen, it began to ooze…before we knew it puss was draining everywhere. The doctor was so excited because this means they won’t have to extract it with a needle! Granted, Kohen was not excited to have someone pressing on his abdomen. But after it was over, he was fine!

When we rewrapped his legs this morning, there was one spot of concern where they placed some duederm. But overall the skin breakdown on his legs is still minimal. We thank our awesome God for this!

Please continue to pray for the skin irritation on his legs and back. Things are doing well but as long as he is in traction we just have to keep a watch for bedsores.

Oh how we are blessed with the sweet peace of Christ in our room!

Losing a Tube

2008-09-03T16:43:00.000-05:00

Today was another great day for Kohen – we probably sound like a broken record but he is doing really fantastic!

He is sleeping better. They have reduced his antibiotic to once a day. So they no longer have to come in at night to give him medicine unless we call. Last night he slept in 3- 4 hour intervals.

The urologists were in today and said they are ready to remove the tube draining the left kidney. Yea!! Please pray for them as they do this probably early Thursday morning. This is one of four tubes he has draining the urine. This means things are working the way they should in his urinary system. Praise God!!!

The rash on his back is looking so good. This is something we will probably continue to treat as long as he is flat on his back. But the powder and prayers combination is working wonders.

We just praise God that every day we can see his hand at work in Kohen’s life! God just continues to amaze us more and more at how awesome He is!

Well Into Week 2

2008-09-02T18:51:00.000-05:00

Another great day for Kohen!

Both sets of doctors (orthopedic & urology) were in today and said he looks great!

Kohen is so animated…it is great! He is such a happy baby. He continues to rest better at night.

His back rash is amazingly better. We started a powder nystatin last night before bedtime and within 2 hours you could already see improvement. We treat this twice a day.

Please continue to pray for the spot on his abdomen. It is still of concern but they still do not want to take measures to drain it yet.

Pray for Sky’s dad. He is now sick with what Sky had this weekend. Sky is back at work. Braxton is with Tanya’s parents this week. If everyone stays well, we hope to have Sky and Braxton visit this weekend!

Kohen Resting Better

2008-09-01T09:07:00.002-05:00

We had a good day yesterday and Kohen rested well again last night. What a blessing!

The doctors said his legs are starting to show some early signs of breakdown but nothing that merits medication at this time. Please continue to pray against this.

They also are changing the medication for the rash on his back and between the creases of his legs. They think it might be yeast infection. Please pray against this as well.

We are still seeing weekend on-call doctors since it is a holiday. We will be glad to see his surgeons tomorrow and get their assessment of the things that have developed over the weekend.

The place on his abdomen is bruising and maturing which is a good thing. It is no longer bright red! Please pray for this as well.

Sky and Braxton are feeling better everyday. We hope they will come for a visit on Wednesday.

“And the Lord said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ ” - II Corinthians 12:9

Half Way Home

2008-08-31T13:07:00.001-05:00

Today is day 11 of what anticipate a 22 day stay! Yea!!

Last night was one of the best nights yet. Kohen rested better between feedings…and mom rested better!

The doctors this morning were pleased with his continued progress.

Kohen is “talking” more and interacting with more smiles. He has such a sweet disposition to have his legs hanging from the air :) .

The biggest prayer concern is still the red irritation on his back. The nurse worked with his tubing last night and the drainage is no longer pooling! Now we are just trying to use cream to help with the irritation.

Braxton continues to feel better and Sky said this morning that he feels a little stronger.

Thank you for your continued prayer support for our family.

Quick Update

2008-08-30T09:53:00.002-05:00

Last night was a little better. The nurses check Kohen every 2 hours for circulation and the nerves in his legs. We asked the dr. if there was any way to work around him sleeping but with these issues that is not possible. We ask you pray we can rest when he does and maybe he will not wake up every time they check him.

We saw Dr. Kitchens this morning (another partner who assisted in surgery). This is the first time he has seen Kohen since surgery. He said Kohen looked great! He commented on how amazing his legs look - that usually by now there is skin breakdown but that Kohen looked great! The spot on his abdomen continues to improve. ---All answers to prayer!! How great is our God!

Today's Prayer concern:
Kohen has some red irritation on his back. This is because he is laying flat and there is some drainage that pools there. We are trying to keep him on dry pads. But we must watch this because this could also develop into bed sores.

Sky is better, just weak. Braxton is almost back to full speed. Sky's parents are with them this weekend.

Answered Prayer

2008-08-29T19:38:00.003-05:00

Today was a good day. We had a wonderful nurse named Erin who was such a blessing. The resident came in this evening. He let mommy adjust the traction from start to finish and she feels much more confident!

The doctor said again today Kohen looks great! His abdomen continues to improve and the skin on his legs remain the same. His bowels are working good. He is eating great!

Mommy was able to take a good nap this afternoon. Our pastor even stopped in and brought us Mexican for dinner! What a great change from the usual meals of salads and sandwiches!

Sky was pretty sick and weak most of the day. His dad continues to care for him and Braxton! For this mommy feels blessed that someone is looking after her boys at home!

Thank you for your prayers. The Lord continues to make Himself manifest in our presence. We worship Him for His love and care for our family! Thank all of you for being part of His ministry to us!

Traction update

2008-08-29T11:53:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to let you know that the charge nurse came in and apologized for last night's craziness. She is also going to give me traction lessons today so I feel comfortable over the weekend. She told me I could page her anytime I needed her over the weekend and she would walk me through anything I didn't understand. This is such an answer to prayer. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord. Psalm 121

Prayer Needs

2008-08-29T09:57:00.001-05:00

Last night was by far the most difficult night. Kohen was slipping out of traction and there was a lot of confusion between the nurses and doctors about who was qualified to change his traction. This created a lot of anxiety for mommy. The resident told the nurses that mom would have to do it if she wanted it done because there was no doctor at the hospital who could to it…and so after about and hour and a half and two separate tries, we finally got it adjusted correctly. Mind you I had only assisted once in changing his traction.

We fell into bed a little before 1:00 to get up a little after 2:00. Exhaustion is definitely setting in. Even during the day it is hard to nap because someone is constantly coming and going or the intercom is going on and off or Kohen needs my attention.

Prayer requests:
A nighttime nurse for us who (1) is knowledge (2) is compassionate & (3) will work with us to get some rest. - This is huge!!
Sky – he was nauseous and sick through the night so he will not be able to visit us this weekend.
Rest/Sleep – this is getting more crucial as each day passes…after last night it is really needed.

Praises
Braxton’s temperature is back to normal.
The doctors said Kohen continues to look good!

Morning Update

2008-08-28T12:52:00.001-05:00

Praise God from whom all blessing flow!

Praise Reports:
1. We have made it to the one week mark!
2. The doctors think that the spot on his abdomen is continuing to improve!
3. His bowels are moving!
4. The spot of breakdown on his leg is not any worse than yesterday!
5. Mommy helped the doctor wrap the legs for the first time this morning!

Prayer Requests:
1. Rest/Sleep for Mommy – At the hospital someone is constantly coming in for something day & night…it is starting to take it’s toll
2. Braxton’s fever – It was up to over 102 last night. Sky’s dad is staying with him today.

Today's Report

2008-08-27T18:43:00.001-05:00

The last 24 hours were a little challenging as Kohen cries & we can’t always target the reason. If Mommy could just hold him, I think everyone would feel better J.

The doctor is watching the red spot on his abdomen. He said he could draw the fluid off , but that is not what he wants to do unless absolutely necessary because of the risks involved. From when he saw it this morning until he saw it this afternoon, Dr. Herndon said it looked better…an answer to prayer!

Another answered prayer, the bowels are really working today. Kohen kept mommy busy with five dirty diapers! Praise the Lord!

They are weaning him off the stronger pain medicines to regular Tylenol.

One new prayer request: Kohen is having some skin breakdown because of the wrappings on his legs. The doctor said this is inevitable. Please pray for God’s hand to be upon his legs and that the breakdown would be minimal.

Overall, the dr. said Kohen is doing great!

Sky and Braxton are adjusting. Braxton enjoys school while daddy works. Sky just called to say that several children at school are sick and Braxton has a fever. Please pray for Sky as he makes decisions about Braxton’s care since he cannot attend school with a fever…and this was our 3 – week plan.

Tuesday August 26 Update

2008-08-26T22:20:00.002-05:00

Today was another great day for Kohen! There is no doubt you all prayed him a restful night. He did so well...sleeping in 2-4 hour intervals. The nurses worked with us to do vitals when he was awake eating so they didn't have to wake him at different times.

The orthopedic drs and urologists were all in today and said he looks great! They determined that the red spot on his abdomen is a pocket of fluid from the reconstruction. It should drain with time. They will continue to watch it. Please continue to pray for this.

They took the IV out of his little head today...yea!!! Mommy washed his hair and now he can turn his head side to side!

He is moving more and more...trying to scoot sideways in the bed and moving his legs. They had to re-wrap his traction at lunch today because he was trying to wiggle out of it!

He is eating his fist...which is helping with the teething...and he is laughing at us when we entertain him. It is so cute!

He also had a good bowel movement today...never thought we'd be so excited! He still needs continued prayer for this area. You can tell he hurts.

God continues to make His presence real in our lives every time we turn around. Words cannot describe the awe we feel. May His name continued to be glorified in our circumstances.

Monday August 25

2008-08-25T17:27:00.003-05:00

Kohen is much more animated today and smiling often. The doctors re-wrapped his legs and cleaned his tubing sites. They say that everything looks good. He also had his first sponge bath since surgery and was happy about this!

Last night was a difficult night with little rest. He cried alot seemingly agitated and we were unable to target why. He is running a low grade temp. We think that he may be cutting bottom teeth. You can see them through the gum and he is trying to eat the nipple of his bottle.

Pray requests:

Kohen has a red spot on his lower abdomen. The drs. aren't certain what it is and will watch it. Since he is already on antibiotics, they do not seem overly concerned at this time.

Kohen is still having problems with his bowels.

Rest and peace for Kohen tonight.

Safety for Sky as he travels home.

Thanks to all of you for your calls, e-mails, gifts and especially your prayers. Even though we are unable to reply to each one, they are such an encouragement and keep us going! God is so gracious and we give Him praise for His presence with us!

Sunday

2008-08-24T20:32:00.002-05:00

What an exciting day! Kohen gave us his first smile since surgery! We were also moved to the hallway for a tornado warning.

Kohen is more like himself. Most of his swelling has gone down. He is moving his arms and toes more. He is still battling with his bowels (prayer request). But other than that he is eating and resting well. His pain is very controlled with Tylenol with Codine every 5 hours or so. The doctors said today, "He looks great!"

Braxton came up to visit him yesterday and today. He is still with grandparents. Sky is going home tomorrow (Monday). Please continue to remember our family as we make this transition.

Kohen - Saturday

2008-08-24T20:10:00.001-05:00

Saturday, August 23 : 11:00 AM

Yesterday was a long day and night. Kohen had a couple of different reactions to come of the pain medications. The jerking especially disrupted his rest. They removed the epidural. He seems to be adjusting to the new medication, resting better and eating better.

The doctor adjusted his traction and dressed the incision sites/tubing this morning. He said Kohen looked great. The fluid is draining well from his little body and his swelling is going down.

They are going to give his something to assist his bowels. Please pray that this will work. The doctor said with all he has going on in his abdominal region, Kohen does not need to strain.

Please pray for strength for us. The days and nights seem to run together and the doctors tell us these three week are going to be long and exhausting.

Kohen update Friday 8/22/2008 1:00 p.m.

2008-08-22T12:47:00.002-05:00

Tanya and I arrived at the PICU this morning at around 8:30 a.m. when visiting hours began to find that Dr. Joseph and Dr. Cox (one of the residents) had been in to check Kohen and change his bandages. The report to the nurse that everything looked great and that they were well pleased with how the surgery had turned out. Dr. Herndon, Kohen's lead doctor, will be on call this weekend and will see him tomorrow.

Dr. Joseph ordered him a room and by 9:30 a.m. we were being moved to a private room! The nures and doctors in the PICU told us this was "unheard of" to be moved to a room this quick (approximatly 13 hours after surgery) for patients that had undergone this surgery. PRAISE THE LORD FOR HIS MIGHT WORKS!!! Kohen had already began taking small amounts of pedialyte and formula this morning when we got to the PICU.

Please continue to pray for:
1.) Healing of Kohen's Pelvis and abdoman region.
2.) Tany and Sky as they learn to changes his bandages.
3.) Kohen's kidneys and bladder to function properly.
4.) Kohen's pain.
5.)Kohen has been crying alot for long periouds because of several factors so please pray for peace for his little body.
6.) Continue to pray for Braxton as he is away from mom and dad.

We will keep you update as often as we can. Thank you all for your prayers and support. It means so much to us at this time.

Sky, Tanya, Braxton & Kohen

Kohen in Recovery

2008-08-21T20:12:00.000-05:00

8:00 PM

Dr. Herndon just came in and told us that the surgery was very successful. His pelvic bones went back together perfectly. His bladder is big, which is wonderful for long term recovery. We will be able to go back and see him in a little while. He will spend the night in Pediatric ICU and move into a room tomorrow.

Please continue to pray for him as he comes off the anethesia and for pain control. We were told that the pelvic repair can be quite painful. Please pray specifically for this need.

We love all of you and thank you for your prayers! Please praise God with us for His amazing love and faithfulness and that He will continue to show His glory all through Kohen's life!

Kohen Surgery Update 6:00 p.m.

2008-08-21T17:55:00.000-05:00

Kohen is doing well. He is still in surgery. We have been told that it will be a while longer before things are finished. Please pray for us it has been a long day and we are growing weary, but things are going well.

Sky and Tanya

Kohen Surgery Update 3:45 p.m.

2008-08-21T15:39:00.000-05:00

Dr. Gilbert came out and talked to us. He feels the orthopedic part of surgery was successful. They were able to give him an epidural to help control pelvic pain. We receive hourly updates that he is doing beautifully. They also gave him a small blood transfusion about an hour ago simply because he had been in surgery so long. Tanya was able to donate blood, so he is receiving mommy's blood. We anticipate him coming out of surgery around 7 p.m. if all goes as planned.

Surgery Update 11:45

2008-08-21T11:44:00.000-05:00

Kohen is in surgery and is doing well. They just finished the orthopedic part of the surgery, and the urology team is about to begin. This part should last another 6 hours or so. We will post an update as soon as we know anything more. Please continue to pray for Kohen and our family

Sky& Tanya

Kohen's Surgery Schedule

2008-08-19T17:48:00.000-05:00

Kohenʼs surgery is Thursday, August 21. We check him in at 7:00 a.m.

Please pray for our safety traveling and Braxton as he will be with Skyʼs parents.

The surgery will take approximately 8 -10 hours.

Please pray for all the medical personnel who will attend to him and for his safety under the anesthesia and other medicines.

We will be in the hospital at least 3 weeks.
Daniel Kohen Hallmon
c/o Childrenʼs Hospital
PO Box 2252
Birmingham, AL 35246

God continues to amaze us. Kohen has been battling fever off and on for the last 2 weeks. Sunday night, we had our pastor and close friends from our church come and anoint him with oil and pray over him. His fever dropped one degree within the hour without any medicine and was normal by morning. How great is our God!

Sky has updated our webpage. http://skyhallmon.googlepages.com/

THE HALLMON FAMILY BLOG

With Flying Colors

Kohen's Test Report

Two Year Tests

Kohen's report from Children's

Merry CHRISTmas

A "Normal" Right Kidney

Follow up

Surgery Results

Procedure this Wednesday July 29

New SpringWidget

New Pictures

Urodynamic Testing Results

Happy 1st Birthday Kohen

10 Months Old

Nine Months Old

Infection Update

Prayer Request Today

Christmas Update

Great Report - December 19

December Update

Great Report

Kohen Procedure Rescheduled

Infection Update

Kohen Fever

Kohen Procedure on Monday

Culture Report

Infection Update

Infection

Two Months Post Surgery

Fever Update

Fever Request

Hitting the Road

This Week

Things Continue to Improve

Rollin'

Long Term Prayer Requests

Check Up with Dr. Herndon

Check Up with Dr. Farmer

Home Sweet Home

Still Waiting on Cultures

Saturday Report

Friday Afternoon

Water Update

We Need Water

Out of Traction/Returning from the OR

More Answered Prayers

Culture Results & Plan of Action

What an Awesome God!

Urgent Prayer Need this Morning

Two Milestones

Losing a Tube

Well Into Week 2

Kohen Resting Better

Half Way Home

Quick Update

Answered Prayer

Traction update

Prayer Needs

Morning Update

Today's Report

Tuesday August 26 Update

Monday August 25

Sunday

Kohen - Saturday

Kohen update Friday 8/22/2008 1:00 p.m.

Kohen in Recovery

Kohen Surgery Update 6:00 p.m.

Kohen Surgery Update 3:45 p.m.

Surgery Update 11:45

Kohen's Surgery Schedule