Well it's been about two and a half weeks and we're all doing very well. As for mom, for being bed ridden for 13 weeks and giving birth to twins, I feel wonderful. It is so great to be able to get up and about without being yelled at, and it's been refreshing to just get in the car and drive whenever I feel like it. I'm back to cooking and cleaning again, and I'm trying to walk a little most days of the week to build my stamina back.James and Lauren are continuing to make good progress in the NICU. James had a minor set back last week with a gastrointestinal scare but the doctors never could find what was the matter with him. He was taken off of milk for a few days while they administered antibiotics and put him back on an IV with fluids and nutrients. He's now off of that IV and back on milk, and will actually start nipple feeding from a bottle tomorrow. He had an apnea episode today while John was holding him, but that's the first one he's had in over a week.
Lauren has had several more episodes with apnea but has been doing better than James in other ways. She has put on more weight. She is now 3 lb 7.5 oz, compared to her birth weight of 2 lb 13 oz. James' birth weight was 4 lb and he's now up to 4 lb 6 oz. Lauren also started nipple feeding last Sunday and today I actually got to breastfeed her. After about 30 minutes of working with her, she only sucked for about 3 of them. Lauren hasn't quite figured out what to do with her tongue yet, which makes sucking more difficult. The lactation consultant told me not to get discouraged because the sucking reflex is the last to develop in newborns, therefore preemies have an especially hard time breathing, sucking and swallowing all at the same time. But mom is still supplying them plenty of milk through pumping. So much that I've surprised all the nurses, doctors and lactation consultant!
Lauren & James
When I asked the babies' neonatologist how long she thinks it might be before they'll get to come home, she said that if everything continues to go well and we don't have anymore set backs that one or both of them may be ready in four weeks. Let's pray we get them then!
I updated the Picasa album "NICU Life" with more fun photos too!
3 comments:
So great to hear all of you are doing so wonderful! I especially love the first picture of Lauren and James taken together on the blog, they are such angels. So special that you are finally getting to breastfeed Lauren too! We are all saying our prayers they get to come home with you guys very soon. Keep us updated on you! Can't wait to see you in November.
Thanks for the update! Love all the pictures -- keep 'em coming! Congrats on your milk supply -- you are impressive! :)
They are precious. I know that you are so anxious to get them home and we are praying everyday that happens soon. What wonderful news about the milk, I hope it is that easy for me and our twins. I cannot wait to see them home with you. Remember that we are thinking of you guys daily. Take care and keep the pictures coming. Love to see them growing!!!
love!
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