Baby Kevin is now 5lbs 10oz. They are continuing to observe him for brady events. A discharge date has not been set but we know it will be soon. I got a little down today because it feels like tomorrow will never come. The tomorrow when Baby Kevin comes home. I prayed for the peace I found earlier this week because I know God knows best, but still it was a struggle early today.
On the drive home, I was able to celebrate. I looked back and realized how far we have come. Baby Kevin is doing so well with his feeds! He eagerly attacks the bottle and finishes around 2oz. He is alert and has successfully mastered the suck, swallow and breathe technique. :-) I remember when it took a lot to stimulate him to finish an ounce. I also remember when he did not have the ability to suck, swallow & breathe. I remember watching the monitors go off because he wore himself out. His heart rate would dip or escalate. He would have "puppy dog" breathing because he forgot to breathe and then had to breathe fast to catch up. I also remember when they had to limit his PO feed attempts. He was only allowed three bottles a day and the rest of the feeds were by a feeding tube. It was just so tiring for him. But today he is doing so well. The bottle (and breastfeeding) are no longer a challenge.
However, we may have been at the NICU a little too long. :-) The cashier (she is really sweet) gave my mom and I the employee discount today. Anita, the cashier, had a granddaughter in the NICU so she is very sympathic and understanding. It has been 7 weeks and 1 day, but that's ok. He'll be home soon! I walked past the family room again. It said "in use". Some other family is taking their little one home tomorrow. I prayed for the unknown family and thanked God for our turn. I can't wait til the family room door says "In Use" and it's for us!
He also wore his first newborn outfit tonight. The preemie onesies still fit but he is too tall now for the preemie sleepers. Here is a picture of him in his first newborn outfit.
On the drive home, I was able to celebrate. I looked back and realized how far we have come. Baby Kevin is doing so well with his feeds! He eagerly attacks the bottle and finishes around 2oz. He is alert and has successfully mastered the suck, swallow and breathe technique. :-) I remember when it took a lot to stimulate him to finish an ounce. I also remember when he did not have the ability to suck, swallow & breathe. I remember watching the monitors go off because he wore himself out. His heart rate would dip or escalate. He would have "puppy dog" breathing because he forgot to breathe and then had to breathe fast to catch up. I also remember when they had to limit his PO feed attempts. He was only allowed three bottles a day and the rest of the feeds were by a feeding tube. It was just so tiring for him. But today he is doing so well. The bottle (and breastfeeding) are no longer a challenge.
However, we may have been at the NICU a little too long. :-) The cashier (she is really sweet) gave my mom and I the employee discount today. Anita, the cashier, had a granddaughter in the NICU so she is very sympathic and understanding. It has been 7 weeks and 1 day, but that's ok. He'll be home soon! I walked past the family room again. It said "in use". Some other family is taking their little one home tomorrow. I prayed for the unknown family and thanked God for our turn. I can't wait til the family room door says "In Use" and it's for us!
He also wore his first newborn outfit tonight. The preemie onesies still fit but he is too tall now for the preemie sleepers. Here is a picture of him in his first newborn outfit.
Thank you for continuing to pray for our family.
Yay Alicia! I'm so glad you have a blog now and I can keep up with you and that precious little boy! You're in my prayers! :) I also have a blog, so make sure you check it out at www.mossmoments.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteLove you!
Praise the Lord. It's been a ministry at the hospital. I know I will cry when it is time to leave- started already this morning. Tears of joy and wonder. God has taken us through the fire and we "are fine" :-) Thanks for letting me serve you and Baby Kevin. It has been a tremendous pleasure and honor. He is the best baby!! Thank you Lord!!
ReplyDeleteLove you,
Mom (Grandma)
love the family shot! :)
ReplyDeleteThank God for giving you this blog! I am sure that it allows you to release a lot of stress by just being able to write about what you're going through and your feelings about it. Not only are you able to be encouraged by others, but, I'm sure that you are a great encouragement for others!
ReplyDeleteTears welled up inside me as I read this latest update in your story as I read about your thoughts and prayers for the family that was in the "Family Room." Of course, it was after I spoke to you, so I knew how soon your prayer would be answered, and I began to thank The Lord! He is so great! He is Faithful! He takes care of HIs own, and you are one of them! "Look up and be encouraged!" You have been in the valley long enough! Now you are at the top of the mountain! Give God the glory! I thank HIm for You, Kevin, and Baby Kevin!
Love,
Mama Grant
KG is growing so sweet, he is a total heart breaker. Remember that God is holding his hand while he takes these steps in his development.
ReplyDelete