PTSD

We are very relieved to be out of the ICU. Jenson is still de-toxing from the experience. His blood pressure and heart rate have come down, and he is starting to take deeper breaths. But, every time someone comes near him his blue eyes start frantically darting from side to side as he says, "I scared! I scared!".

Doug says it is like a soldier returning from war suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He is right. Jenson probably feels like he was captured by enemies and tortured while held hostage. He is free now, but emotionally needs to work through the experience.

It is hard to believe PTSD can happen to a 3 year old, let alone our 3 year old but all the signs are there. The doctors are going to give him some medication to help him through this period of time. He has a play therapist coming on Tuesday to also help him recover.

When we first read the materials about the bone marrow unit, they highlighted that they have a full team of experts to help the patient through this experience including:

Doctors
Nurse Practioners
Nurses
Physical Therapists
Psychiatists and Play Therapists
Music Therapists
Social Workers
Child Life Worker

When reading through the materials months ago, I remember thinking it sounded a bit excessive and wondered what all these people would do. Once again, I am humbled as we need the help of the full team to make it through this experience.

Thankfully God has sent the help we need.

Kristin