A couple of folks asked me to provide an update after we had an opportunity to speak with the specialist our daughters see (regarding severe asthma). I know of at least one other poster that I believe is in a similar situation with their kid so with that said, here is what their specialist had to say:
1. They are in the 20% that are at a higher risk. (ie, most likely to end up in ICU)
2. Their age does work in their favor kids are less likely to die.
3. Absolutely do not stop control meds.
4. There are no preventative measures that can be taken other than practicing good hygiene and keeping their distance from people in general. Basically, the same thing you've been hearing & reading everywhere.
5. Permanent lung damage is a real concern
6. The entire hospital has been informed of the procedure for this (obviously its TCH)
This information matches what I've been thinking all along -- we need to be vigilant and take some measures to protect the kids. I don't think my viewpoint is panic or hysteria; it's pragmatic. I think this can be managed if taken seriously and realistically. I have just about zero worry of this being fatal to my girls, but I also don't want serious illness for them. Just because they may not be sent to their dirt nap doesn't mean it wouldn't have serious consequences. For that reason, I'll decide about self-quarantine late next week (end of Spring Break), regardless of whether school districts shut down. If you think this is hysteria, that's clearly your prerogative. I have 2 girls to protect. I'll do what I think is necessary to increase their chances of not getting seriously ill. If the school districts decide to shut down, perhaps this helps in understanding why. It would be nice for people to understand my perspective, but that's not necessary. What I do think is necessary is better communication is needed to clearly define what the dangers are and the part everyone plays in managing the safety of the 20%ers. This has nothing to do with confidence that all of this caution is necessary it's because we're very much not sure it's not (double negative?). The newness and lack of medical confidence has families like mine on red alert. That's why I am posting some personal stuff which I rarely do. If that helps people understand another perspective, great. If not, I did my best. This is the life and stress of a parent of kids with severe asthma and it barely tips the scale compared to what others go through -- comparatively, we have it good.
On a lighter note: The forum fuzz gave me my 1st 24-hr ban. I guess I'm legit now. I should probably not drink liquid Russian rage (Vodka) while posting. Lesson learned. To the dude I teed off on sorry dude; not my finest moment.
Anyways, flame away
