On Monday October 17th, because of a bacteria in her bloodstream, Ashtyn went into decompensated septic shock: which is the late phase of shock when the body's compensatory mechanisms (such as increased heart rate, vasoconstriction, increased respiratory rate) are unable to maintain adequate perfusion to the brain and vital organs. The doctors did not expect she would make it through the night. Not only is shock a medical emergency, she also was compromised from cancer and is neutropenic (absence of infection fighting cells). Ashtyn had nothing going in her favor and wasn't expected to live. Once the healthcare team got her stable in her instability, it was just a matter of waiting to see if she could pull out of it. I sat next to Ashtyn in quiet contemplation. My thoughts and feelings went to things I already knew. I knew that God lives. I knew that we come to this earth with a unique purpose. I knew Ashtyn would stay on earth until her purpose was over. I also felt her purpose wasn't over yet and if enough people prayed and showed God how much we wanted her here, she would heal and overcome. That night I slept fine and have been sure ever since. Miracle of the day: Ashtyn no longer needs her breathing tube. This girl's got things here worth living for.
