Friday, May 7, 2010

Of Seven Days, Kangaroos, Poops, Pics and PICCs

Wow.

A week old. It is really hard to believe seven days have gone by since being woken up in the early morning by doctors talking about c-sections. It's been a crazy few weeks but we have two beautiful children fighting their way forward each and every day.

We are now moving into a critical time. Penny seems to be doing best, but this isn't uncommon as little girls are often at an advantage when born this early. Isaak is still experiencing quite a few bradycardia events but is keeping his O2 sats up. Both babies are pooping regularly; this is a huge step and means they are tolerating their food. The docs  hope to go up to 4ml per feeding on Sunday if all continues well. For reference, 13ml would be a full feed so they are getting there slowly but surely. Their best chance is for the doctors and nurses to follow the protocols gradually and carefully.

Isaak received a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter, or PICC, today. His umbilical venous catheter had shifted and they needed a way to continue feeding and medicating him. They prefer not to use regular IVs as they don't last long in the tiny little veins. The PICC can stay in place for months and offers higher volume flow and a lower risk of infection. The placement was not picture perfect, but will be OK for now. Penny will probably receive one of her own in the next couple of days as her UVC will need to come out soon. If feeds continue to increase, they may only need it for a week or two. Let's hope that's the case!

Grandma Karla was able to hold Penny yesterday while they did a bed change and Bekka was able to perform a little Kangaroo Care with her today. Dad hasn't gotten to hold either of them yet but hopefully that comes soon. It's pretty tough not having had that chance. If Isaak is doing well tomorrow, I'm hoping to hold him during his bed change.

More pics are up of all this so pop over to the gallery and check them out.

3 comments:

  1. How precious, it was good to get a better look at Penny and Oh how wonderful to see her on Mommy's chest - Bekka you're looking good too; what a special Mother's Day for you, to have these two tiny ones surving through such an amzing journey and incrediable odds. Thoughts and prayers and our Love for the four of you continue from Mom &Pop Milloway P.S. Glade to see Grandma Karla was able to be there with you.

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  2. Thanks for posting all of the pics! You guys are in my prayers and so often in my thoughts. Happy early Mothers Day!

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  3. Oh what a beautiful sight to see first thing in the morning! Bekka you do look great and I'm so glad your Mama has been able to be there with you over the past week. What a joy it is to see little Penny without her "head gear". She's is a beautiful little girl! Also, seeing Isaak's little personality coming through is a blessing. I might also add that he's a mighty handsome young man. Neil and Bekka, thank you for the wonderful gift you've given each of us this Mother's Day. Also, thank you for the wonderful birthday gift you've given me!! You all continue to be in our prayers. We're sending lots of Nana and Papaw kisses.
    "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:7

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