Sunday, October 7, 2012

October 7th, 2012

 Blake is still doing wonderful. The only big goals we need to focus on is him gaining some weight. He is still stuck around 2lbs 10oz. They have been adding 24 calories into my breast milk so that should help. Poor guy just had a lot to overcome these last few weeks and that kind of put a halt to his weight gain.

Here is the game plan that the doctor mentioned to me yesterday. Obviously he needs to gain weight, and at 35-36 weeks they can start trying to get Blake to nipple feed instead of a feeding tube. Also, they are looking at having the surgery to connect his bowel and place it back in his belly around 36 weeks or so. He'll be put back on the ventilator during his surgery and he should be able to wean off it pretty quickly after its done. The only stipulations that they have in order for Blake to come home is that he can breathe on his own (or sometimes they can go home on oxygen but I don't see him having that problem), that he can regulate his own temperature and that he can nipple feed whether it be from a bottle or from the breast. So as long as he can do those things he should be able to come home shortly after his surgery.

 I am so thankful that Blake has finally turned the corner and is continuing to progress. I pray everyday not only for Blake, but for all the babies and families that have to deal with being in the NICU. One of the saddest things about being in the NICU is getting to know who is around you. Whether or not you talk to every parent, you are aware of them. You learn which family is in which room and sometimes you even share each others stories and find out their baby's situation. Its always nice to have someone to talk who understands and is in a similar situation but its never fun to walk by a room where a family once was and its now empty. I've seen it happen a handful of times already and each time it happens I leave the NICU with a lump in my throat. We were so close to having to go through that and yet I still can't even imagine it. My heart will forever be with the NICU babies and their families, and I will always continue to pray for them. Blake has been so fortunate to have so many people who love him and pray for him and I want to return the favor by keeping them close in mind and in prayer.

I can NOT wait for Blake to finally come home. I am counting down the days! Being able to kangaroo him every day has made it a little easier and I am so glad he is finally at the point where he can be held often. Holding him is so therapeutic for me! And I am happy to report that Patrick held him for the first time the other night! He has been so nervous about holding him but the nurse finally convince him to do and I'm so glad. I think its so important for the three of us to be able to bond through holding him. But hopefully Mr. Blake doesn't face any more delays and can come home before Christmas!

Looking like more and more like big brother!
Wearing the hat mama made me
He loves laying on his belly
"No more pictures please!"

Snuggling with mama

Daddy's first time holding Blake

Big beautiful eyes!

Loving the pacifier

Daddy helping with bath time

Love


2 comments:

  1. I am amazed how much he continues to change and become more and more alert! He is our family's miracle, and I cherish him so much, and like you, pray every day for him and for other babies facing the same type of roller coaster. But our little guy is doing great, and I am SO excited to get him back home for the holidays! Love you all so much! Kisses for Blake from Aunt Lissa!

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  2. I love reading your updates and seeing this pictures. My heart goes out to you and your family! you are an amazing mama! Cant wait to one day meet this little miracle!

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