Bella and I had our first day without Daddy, and let me tell you, she handled it better than I did. So much different without the big guy around. Well, the little superstar has made it almost 36 hours on the biphasic CPAP. At rounds today, Dr. Kaufman said even the first 24 hours is great. So hopefully there is no turning back at this point. The staff was considering moving her to regular CPAP today but decided against that transition. Some of her oxygen requirements just weren't where they need to be to make the switch. Bella does really well on her tummy, as usual, but has a rougher time on her back with oxygen percentages. Her feeds have gone up to 5mL every two hours now and should be up to 6mL per feed by the morning. Thank goodness she likes my milk!!! On top of that she is at 1320 grams which is 2lb. 15oz. Dr. K also said that once Bella reaches 150mL in a day of milk they will be able to take out the PICC and ART lines; these are the lines they use to take blood for labs and give fluids. At this point these lines are the most common means for infection, still holding about a 30% chance. Yet once these lines are removed, Bella's risk for infection is almost zero. As for the other means of her nutrition, the plan is for her to be completely off the IV fluids by the middle of this week. As you will notice in the pictures below, I got to hold the big girl again tonight. It is amazing how much she has grown; each time I put her in my arms she feels so different size wise. Even though the CPAP machine is noisy, I could still hear Bella cooing and grunting. That was awesome to hear sounds come out of her tiny body.
As I was walking through the halls of the hospital today, I realized how grateful I am. Even though I already miss Chris and I am somewhat alone, I could take each step knowing that I am privileged to have this opportunity to spend with our baby girl. There are so many preemie moms out there that don't get this chance to share in the development of their babies. I am so fortunate and blessed to be here.
Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
4 comments:
She is filling out! She looks great. Keep up the good work and keep the faith!
Much love and prayers,
Mere, Parker, Paul & Andi
Bella is so lucky to have such a wonderful mama! It's great to see that she's almost doubled in size. You guys continue to be in my thoughts every day!
love,
Clara
Looks like her personality is starting to shine! Rhys always did better on his tummy - so much so that when they first put him on cannula he was stritcly ordered to be on his tummy to help with his O2 saturation since his requirement was always on the higher end. And way to go baby Bella! Any time off the vent is so great for your little lungs!!
Great job, Bella! Olivia always did better on her tummy as well. I couldn't imagine going through all of this away from home and now away from your husband. Many prayers for you always.
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