Update

Elena's condition has improved quite a bit. Her breathing is less labored and her heart rate is closer to normal. She still isn't eating or drinking much and requires oxygen to keep her blood saturation where it should be. She'll probably be in the hospital until Wednesday or so.

Elena spends most of her time clutching her giraffe, bunny, and blanket. These are all things that people have given her throughout her life. The nurses, respiratory therapists, and doctors all know better than to touch one of these precious items. Last night we tried to give Elena a bath, but eventually had to abort mission once she realized that her prized possessions weren't allowed in the bath tub with her. People were poking their heads out of their rooms up and down the pediatric unit to see what kind of torturous act was taking place. Babies were crying. On the bright side, I think she cleared some of the crap out of her lungs during the tirade.

We would like to thank everyone who has offered kind words and all sorts of help. Karen's sister, Lisa, has been helping out twice a day, before and after her shifts in the ER downstairs. Karen's mom watched Elena today so that Karen could go home and take a "real" shower. We've also enjoyed visits from her other grandparents. Elena is posing with the octopus that her grandma Jeanie made for her. Sorry about the picture quality, I took it with my phone.