Update - 9/17

Last night, Dr Mazzola came in and took a sample of spinal fluid from the shunt site in Cam's head, which was originally scheduled for this morning. Generally, it is within the first 24 hours that something will grow but 72 hours before they can officially say it is clear of infection. As of 7:30am today, nothing had grown on the culture that was sent down. The white count was still elevated but some of the other markers were "within normal range." If this ends up growing something, the shunt will definitely need to be taken out.



We aren't sure exactly what to hope for at this point in regards to the cultures. If they grow bacteria, at least we have an answer. However, we would hate for Campbell to have to go through any more surgeries.

Campbell didn't sleep very well last night. What little sleep she did get wasn't very restful. However, this morning she woke up with NO FEVER. She has not had any Tylenol since 3:15 yesterday afternoon and the fever is back to trending down. We'll grasp onto this good news and hope it is indicative of more good news to come.

As a side note, we met with the "EMS Angels Motorcycle Club" (www.emsangelsmc.com) on Monday night. Mark, Greg's brother, works with one of their members and when he was filling her in on Campbell's situation, she jumped on the chance to do something for her. They will be hosting a motorcycle ride on October 4th. Even if you do not ride, there will be food, a DJ, door prizes, etc (check in for riders is 9:00 - 11:15 and non-riders start at 12:00). The proceeds of the ride and party afterwards will benefit Cam. It is a rain or shine event and more information can be found on their website. The event is being held at the Mood Lounge in Union, NJ (1998 Morris Ave). We are hoping that Campbell is feeling well enough to make an appearance at the event. If not, one or more of the rest of us will be there. We are amazed at the preparation that they have put into this event and are awed by their generosity for a stranger.

We'll keep everyone posted as they come back with "culture updates" throughout the course of the day.

With Love,

Greg, Robin, Caitlin, Caroline & Campbell