Day 19 of Life - July 7th

Out little Sha is fighting strong. He seems to be opening his eyes more and is still sleeping lots! He has a temperature, which could be a sign of another infection, so the docs are likely going to hold off on his Indomethacin treatment, until they figure out what the problem is. Tests are being done. Another infection is a concern, as each infection can be a danger. He continues on a fairly high flow rate (55) and his oxygen requirements are sitting at about 46%.

Sha is still incredibly fragile. Every day, every minute, every second for him is a fight. With the help of some wonderful nurses, doctors and staff, as well as the love and support of his parents, he is fighting for his life. IF we are likely, and I pray that we are, he will get to come home around the time he was due, September 25th. If there are major complications, then he will have to stay in-hospital longer. I always try to be positive about the little one, but I feel that its also important to be realistic. Even though he is doing really well right now, this does not mean that he is out of the woods. Having an infant in the NICU is like a rollercoaster ride...there are good days and unfortunately, there are bad ones. The worst part as family and friends of Ma and Pa is that we want to help in any way that we can...believe me I know. That's why this blog is so incredible! Everyday, Ma and Pa read your loving messages and know that you are there, even though they can't see you, supporting them...only a phone call away. Thank you so much, all of you, for your continued support.

His official head ultrasound results are in and he's looking good. There is a tiny little spot (like the size of a pin) that is questionable, but this is not the worst news we could have. If it is a bleed, it wouldn't even qualify as a grade I intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). A grade I is the smallest category of brain bleeds. They will do another follow-up head ultrasound next week, but are feeling pretty good at this point.

The little guy has also reached the 1 kg mark...his first weight milestone! At last weigh in, he was 1083 g (1.083 kg)! Before each feed, the nurse puts a little on his lips, so that he can get used to the taste of the milk. It's amazing how instinctual we are...he has even started making sucking motions with his mouth when the time for dinner nears!

Other than that, another pretty slow news day...yippee for that. Sha is now 28+4 weeks gestational age...and everyday closer to term is a good day, especially one without too many complications!