7/8: Enterobacter Cloacae

That's the name of the "gram negative" bacteria that caused Leo's infection. He's getting 2 antibiotics appropriate to treating this specific infection and will continue these for about 10 days. There's even a small chance he may be able to go home as soon as Monday if all the blood tests starting last night remain negative. Thankfully they no longer draw blood from his hand and can just use the venus port. Today, in addition to family, Leo had visits from:

• Dr. Joy de Master, a pediatric resident
• An infectious diseases resident
• Dr. Oram, the infectious diseases attending
• Dr. Mittleman, an ophthalmologist who said Leo's eyes are just fine
• Dr. Kroin, Leo's pediatrician
• Anna Marx, a "speech therapist," who showed and got us a can of something called, "ThickIt," which makes liquids thicker. Since Leo's been coughing a lot, especially while drinking, there's the fear of stuff getting into his lungs and causing pneumonia. So they haven't been giving Leo normal juice or milk, but thickened versions, which look gloppy and goopy. Anyway, they look and taste revolting, since Leo refuses to even take a sip... Smart boy.
• Countless nurses and their aides

So he got no rest whatsoever, but seems happier and more active. His speech has definitely improved as has his mood -- he got a few good punches into my jaw and gut, which means he's clearly feeling better.

Last night's blood cultures, drawn from his hand and port, returned negative. This is great news. That culture needs to remain negative, as do the ones taken today and tomorrow, and he should be home Monday.