Jackson was re-admitted to the hospital last Sunday because he has not been eating or drinking. All in all, he's eaten about as much as one meal in the past week. His gastrointestinal system is also, how shall we say, 'rapidly moving,' which is quite a counterintuitive combination. Here in the hospital he is receiving something called "total parenteral nutrition" through his IV. It consists of two bags of liquid. The large bag holds a somewhat transparent yellow liquid that is contains 699.96 calories of vitamins, minerals, proteins, etc. It seems like a souped up energy drink going straight to his blood. The small bag holds a thicker white substance labelled "Fat Emulsion." (The "fat emulsion" looks basically like the stuff that drips off of a George Foreman Lean Mean Fat Reducing Grilling Machine). It may seem novel to basically inject fat into the blood stream, but let me tell you, as the parent of a 26-pound three year-old who refuses to eat, it sounds great.
He is also very neutropenic. The short version is that he has virtually no immune system right now. Thus, we're back in the isolation room for the forseeable future trying to avoid infection.
Hopefully, as his blood counts increase so will his appetite--we really really want to avoid a feeding tube. With Jackson's demonstrated record of 'extreme uncooperativity' to uncomfortable medical interventions, installing one of those will certainly result in quite a battle. And I also don't feel like losing a fight to a 26 pound opponent.
Jack, it must be horrible for food not to taste good. We really hope your taste buds get back to normal soon. Those fats and vitamins will plump you up and make you feel better.
Hang in there guys! You’re all doing an awesome job. Thinking of you all the time....
Hi Jack, We’ve got to get you some high-octane fuel for that little engine of yours so you can keep on winning all your races! We know it’s hard to eat right now, but someday that yucky taste will go away, and Brendan will share with you all the fun snacks that he’s discovered!
Daddy probably told you that we’re getting ready to move now from Cleveland to Sacramento, so all the Jobes will be together again! As soon as you get nice and healthy, we’ll have you over to our new house for lots and lots of cousin time! We love you guys!
hey big guy....we’re sorry about not finding something good to eat...we hope that changes soon! Stay strong...and always remember we right here with you, and we love you and your family very much! xoxo
Hey Jackson-We know that hospital “food” is not great-but you need to eat it all up to get strong! Halloween is around the corner and you know what that means--Candy!!!
You are in our prayers....Debra, Paul and Isabella
This most be so incredibly frustrating for you all. Jackson, stay strong and try to avoid that feeding tube—that’s no fun for anyone! We think of you every single day.
Ernie, Jenn, Ethan and Jake
Hi Jackson, im thinking about you and I hope those taste buds come back—that way fries and ketchup will tasty yummy again.
xo xo xo
Chris and I wish you all the love and support in the world Jackson. Your family and friends love you so very much. We all want to help you stay strong and keep that beautiful smile.
Hey Jack...well we all know firsthand how hospital food tastes and we can’t blame ya for not wanting to eat that...Maybe between all of us grown-ups, we can come up with something new for you to try....hopefully you’ll be feeling better soon. Halloween is around the corner and Aunt Jamie saw a “Mater” costume that you might like....she’ll mention it to Grandma Pam for ya. You guys hang in there and take care....we love all of you!!
Hello Jackson,
I am not happy to hear you are in the hospital, but hopefully with all of the vitamins and fats in will get you back into fighting shape!! Because Jack, we are in this fight for good and we are out to win!!!! You keep following doctors orders (and of course your mommy & daddy’s) and I am sure your energy will come back soon.
Let’s see the Jack Attack back and let’s start kicking some cancer booty!! Keep on praying, fighting and especially EATING!!!!
We think about you daily, pray for you constantly and wish your Mommy & Daddy lots of strength.
Keep hanging tough, Jack-Man!! Get those counts up and start sucking down pastrami sandwiches and mashed potatoes like your dad does at Bud’s. And don’t forget about the 5th and most important food group: bacon. We’re all thinking about you and wishing all of you the best. Miss you guys very much.
Hey all, Just found out you were back in the hospital. I will be able to help you all out after the 27th...please do not hesitate to call...K
Hang in there young Jack. Once you’re feeling better you can mack some french fries and a milkshake. Thoughts and prayers to the Jobes as always.
Keep up the good fight! We’re thinking about you all the time!
Keep on truckin’ little Jack - in no time you’ll have the appetite back and you’ll be looking to score some Micky D’s. In the meantime I will have a quater pounder in your honor (and some chicken nuggets.) Sydney loves your cute pictures and looks forward to some good news! Hang in there buddy.
Hey Keri
Nice talking to you today. Happy to hear that Jack has regained the 2 lbs he had lost. Hopefully he will be ready to hit the drive-thru for some yummy fries, chicken nuggets, pizza etc on Monday when he is able to go home. Miss you guys in SAC!
Hi Jack… You are an awesome guy! We think of you, Wyatt, and your special mom & dad every day! Blessings to you all.....