Another Update

We have completed day three in the hospital and find ourselves in an improving situation. The quick summary is below

--Pain is under control and improving
--No new clots or new problematic symptoms
--Blood-thinning agents slowly beginning to take effect
--Some new answers as to "why" this happened
--New ETA for leaving the hospital is Monday.

Vanessa's pain is under better control and appears to be lessening somewhat. The goal is to transition her from intervenous delivery of medication to an oral form that she will be able to continue taking when she returns home.

It is great news that after 72 hours no new symptoms have arisen, especially because the blood-thinning agents are slowly but surely taking effect. The hemotologist (blood doctor) explained that, while we cannot know for certain that additional clots are not traveling toward her brain or heart, as each hour and each day passes without new issues it is a very good sign.

We have received some answers as to 'why' this could have happened. (Before reading further, please scroll to the bottom and check the box acknowledging your status as a HIPAA covered entity.) Blood tests reveal that Vanessa has a rare genetic permutation called Protein S Deficiency. We are told that it is exceedingly rare, manifesting in only 1:500,000 or 1:1,000,000 people. I knew Vanessa was special, but now I finally have clinical proof. Essentially, "normal people" bodies (sorry Vanessa) have multiple mechanisms that naturally prevent clotting. One of those mechanisms relies on a protein S. Vanessa's deficiency substantially raised the risk of clots, but gratefully, she made it through 4 pregnancies without a complication. The car ride from Provo to St. George may have been the cause or a contributor to this occurance.

We are literally feeling the power of prayers on Vanessa's behalf and witnesses to the charity of Christ as expressed through acts of service from our church family and friends. AND, we now have Vanessa's mom in town for the next 9 days!