More Gifts of Love and Support

From Kristine and Donna
From Leslien (a former nurse practitioner in the NICU)
From Kaitlin (Auntie Dee's daughter)

Little Precious

Pa's wedding ring.

Perfect little feet.

Wrist bands available. Proceeds to support Parent-Supporting-Parent group. Also available through Auntie!

Day 6 of Life - UPDATE

There are a couple of issues affecting Sha right now. First of all, he has developed another pulmonary hemorrhage. His oxygen requirements have been increased to 40% oxygen. As we know from earlier this week, with the pulmonary hemorrhage, concern of a brain bleed (IVH) increases. This is Ma's main focus right now. A head ultrasound has been scheduled for Monday to investigate Sha's brain. This also means that the rest of the weekend is going to be very stressful, especially for Ma and Pa.

The second issue affecting Sha is that he has developed a large patent ductus arteriousus (or PDA). As a fetus, Sha didn't need his blood to flow through his lungs, as he was inside his mom and oxygen is provided through the placenta. In his heart, there was an opening, called a ductus arteriosus, which allowed his blood to bypass his lungs. All babies have this while in the womb. Usually, the ductus will close on its own after birth. However, Sha's hasn't closed and this is called a patent ductus arteriosus. The docs will likely now give him a drug, called Indomethacin, which usually helps to close the PDA. Sometimes the drug isn't successful and surgery would be required.

At this time, all we can do is wait, pray and think positive, supporting thoughts. Thank you all for your continued love and support. I will update you as soon as I know more.

Day 6 of Life - June 24th

There's not too much to report about little Sha this morning. He had a pretty quiet night. His oxygen requirements are up a little...but the docs aren't really concerned and say that it's pretty normal. So far, his tummy is taking Ma's breastmilk with no problems. Although some of you may want more info about the little one, please remember that in Sha's case, no news is good news!

Some premature babies cannot handle actual food and can develop something called Necrotizing Enterocolitis (or NEC). Basically, their little systems cannot handle the digestion of the food and it causes inflammation of the bowel, which can eventually lead to the death of some of the bowel tissue. In these cases, surgery is often needed to remove the dead tissue. However, this only affects 1-5% of NICU admissions and so far, is not affecting our little Sha. This is one of the things that the docs are hoping to avoid and are watching very closesly for at this time.

IM came to see Ma again today. They want to try a different drug to get control of her blood pressure. (Even on the "elephant-size" dose, it is still high.) However, they need to find another drug that will not affect her breast milk. So, IM is searching for such a drug and hopefully, will be able to find something more effective that will not impair her pumping. IM said that they would see her tomorrow, which of course means that she won't be able to break out of "prison" today.

When Ma was approximately 15, she had a seizure at the summer camp she was working at. At that time, they said that it was due to heat stroke, but in retrospect, Ma is beginning to wonder if it was actually due to her blood pressure. Of course, there's absolutely no way to prove this...but it is interesting to consider!

Day 5 of Life - UPDATE #2

Alright...Ma had her consult with Internal Medicine (IM)...with a "funny guy". He told her that high blood pressure is called the silent killer for a reason...cuz it takes so long to kill you! Apparently, he is more relaxed about the situation than everyone else! So, the result of the consult...Ma's dose of Labatelol has been upped from the "horse-sized" dosage to the "elephant-size" dosage. IM guy also said that he wouldn't be surprised if Ma could eventually come off the meds at some point...but would likely end up back on them in 5-10 years. Helpful. Labatelol is apparently not the strongest blood pressure med out there...but it is the only one that will not affect Ma's breastmilk. No discharge date for Ma yet...

Every doc that speaks to Ma about her blood pressure recommends the same thing...no more pregnancies. Ma is considering one of two options: 1) Let Pa carry the next one (Dr. H says its possible, but I don't know how Pa feels about this one) or 2) Adopt a little girl from China! Both are good options (and not a serious consideration at this point). Either way, though, Sha will likely be the only Ma-Pa child. Making him even more special...as if that was possible!

So, after work, Ma and I went to visit the little monkey and it was the most amazing thing. His little head fits in the palm of my hand. Sha's nurse told Ma that gently cupping his head helps calm him. So precious. He is absolutely perfect. He looks so fragile...much more so than a full term baby...but the little guy is strong and frisky! When Dr. R was putting in the long line today, he discovered that Sha's feet are incredibly ticklish! He kept jerking his little legs away and curling up his toes. Still being difficult...gosh, I love this kid!!!

Pa's going to go home for awhile tomorrow. Ma has a pizza party scheduled with Auntie Dee, a nurse practitioner in the NICU. (A nurse practitioner is a specialized nurse...with lots of education!) So, Pa gets to escape for a bit...I know Ma wishes she could go, too!

Pa says that he's going to be taking more pictures tonight. I have requested a few items myself...you absolutely have to see his tiny little soother! So, hopefully, tomorrow I will have more pictures.

I also want to warn you all that my morning updates on weekends will not occur as early as those through the week. For those of you who don't know me...I enjoy my sleep and it hasn't been that abundant this past week...so I have some catch-up to do. So, just a warning that unless something serious occurs, an update will not be available until later on in the day. But I promise you that if anything unpleasant happens, I will be updating faster than you can type the really long web address!

Day 5 of Life - UPDATE

Ma is currently waiting on a consult from internal medicine. They are finally going to look at other causes of her incredibly high blood pressure. I was hoping that she would have had the consult before I had to go home...but it's not looking like that is going to happen. Hopefully, I will be able to post something later...so stay tuned! Bed rest continues.

Our little Sha is simply amazing! The little guy has received 1 cc of breast milk!!! Yippee! It was given to him through an NG tube (a tube inserted through his nose and into his tummy). They will give him 1 cc every 6 hours to make sure that his tummy can handle it. They will then increase the dose, assuming there are no problems, to 1 cc every 4 hours and barring no complications, will increase to 1 cc every 2 hours. He's on his way. Every little bit of momma's milk that he can get is a huge help at this point. So far, he seems to be tolerating it well.

Also, they just inserted a long line, which is an IV line that is inserted into the vein in his foot. They feed the line all the way through the vein to around his belly button, through his tiny little body. A chest and abdominal X-ray will be done to verify that the line is properly placed. This line will actually replace his umbilical line, as it can only be used for up to 1 week. This long line will be used to provide Sha with nutrition and if needed in the future, medications. This also prevents the docs from having to poke him repeatedly for IVs.

Pa still hasn't found an internet connection. Poor guy!!!

Day 5 of Life - June 23rd

When a baby is delivered preterm, we count each day as if they are still in the womb. These days are added to their gestational age at birth. Sha is now 26+4 weeks gestational age! Every day is an important milestone passed!

No real news about Little Shabooblah...which is the best possible news! When he was born, the doctors started him on antibiotics (Ampicillin and Gentamicin). This is standard procedure for babies in the NICU. Any little infection can be a serious problem for these fragile infants, so as a precaution, all babies are started on antibiotics upon admission. A blood culture is also started on admission, which is basically a test for the growth of bacteria in a patient's blood sample. If the blood culture does not grow any bacteria within a 48-hour time frame, the antibiotics are usually discontinued.

On a blood test yesterday, Sha's white blood cell count was a little low. This could be a result of an infection, however the doctors agree that it is likely due to the blood transfusion and the repeated samples. So, the docs have stopped Sha's antibiotics...another good sign. So far, Sha just keeps passing test after test!

If Sha is passing tests, then I guess you could say that Ma is failing them! She called me this morning, with my daily update, to say, "They have me on enough blood pressure medication for a horse!". Her nurse today is much less strict and has given back her walking and shower priviledges. The nurse even gave her permission to come upstairs (to our office) to use a computer to apply for a birth certificate for Sha. She also completed some of the government paperwork and is in good spirits.

Pumping continues to improve... All of her milk is currently being frozen, as Sha's little tummy cannot handle anything that heavy yet, and will be used when he's ready. This is Ma's loving contribution to her son's health and development and she is so proud and happy that it is going well.

Pa is apparently driving around the city trying to find a wireless internet connection. He bought a new computer game last night (in an attempt to entertain himself for just awhile longer), but he has to register it online before he can play. (Stupid computer game people!!!) The hospital has wireless connections, but they are incripted and password protected...hopefully, Pa will find one soon!

I have passed along all of your loving comments. The new family is grateful for all of your support. Please keep up the good work!

Day 4 of Life - UPDATE

Sha continues to cause problems for his nurses...the little bugger keeps moving around! He got to see and touch Grandma Cush, Grandma McF, Grandpa McF, Uncle Kabooblah and Aunt Nabooblah today. Tomorrow is Auntie's (that's me) turn (hee hee). More family bonding...more touches of love. The little one continues to improve and is still a little superstar. I'm positive that the love and support from all of you is helping. Thanks so much!

Uncle Kabooblah has asked me to say that he thinks that Sha is the cutest nephew he could have asked for. (Although he's supposed to be studying for his exam tomorrow!!!!)

Yesterday, Ma and I went to the NICU to see Sha together for the first time. God, he is beautiful...the most beautiful baby in the whole wide world (although, I might be a bit biased). We just stood and stared at him (crying of course), marvelling at the fact that Ma is now a mommy...and her little boy is here! Life is a beautiful and sometimes messy miracle...but a miracle just the same. And staring into that incubator, I was in awe. (Okay, enough...or I'll be sobbing again!!!)

Ma is also causing problems for her nurses, but not in the good way that her son is. No more walking, we're told. I'm not sure how much more they can take away from her. It hasn't worked so far! Blood pressure went even higher this morning...unbelievable. Her doctors and nurses don't understand how she can have absolutely NO symptoms!!! They gave her another dose of the other medication and her diastolic pressure (the bottom...and the most important one) dropped from 110 to 76 in 10 minutes!!! They doubled checked it to make sure it was right. They were confused as to why she wasn't lying passed out on the floor! That's our Ma though...too damn stubborn to even feel like fainting if she doesn't want to!

I want to reassure you all...although Ma's blood pressure is out of control...emotionally and physically (other than the blood pressure), she is much more herself. She is in good spirits and is pretty much back to her sarcastic, enjoyable self!

Baby Shabooblah Escapes His Prison

First stop, Baby Sha gets his photos done at Walmart.

Next off to London, England, to conduct the London Symphony.

At last, Sha escapes the doctors and nurses, and flies off into the sunset.

Pictures are courtesy of Pa. I think that Pa has finally reached the peak of boredom!

Gifts of Love and Support - June 22nd

From Kev (Dr. C) ... since Ma lost her showering priviledges for awhile

Hat from Lynn W (in DFC), Hippo from Kristie, Aaron, Lynn and Lorne

From Natasha
From Natasha

From Bakul (Dr. D)
From Great Aunt Carolann, Great Uncle Stu, Chris, Melissa, Kennidie, Stacey and Collin
From Kristie, Aaron, Lynn and Lorne
From Victor (Dr. H), Kim, Sandra and Del

From Great Grandma and Great Grandpa Cushman

From the Department of Paediatrics

Day 4 of Life - June 22nd

Ma's blood pressure spiked again last night, higher than it has ever been, and the staff gave her a double dose of Labetalol. Unfortunately, the meds did nothing to improve her blood pressure, so they gave her a dose of a stronger blood pressure medicine (the name of which she can't remember). They can only give her this medication once, so it isn't a long-term solution, but it did bring her blood pressure down to "almost normal". As a result, they actually let her out of her room! Apparently, she went down to the NICU, visited Sha and then read this blog for the first time. Ma is now back on bed rest and in solitary confinement. Staff is now saying that she will be in the hospital for the weekend, at least.

Sha is doing well. Apparently, he keeps trying to escape his bedding...guess he thinks its time to go home! When Ma visited him late last night, he was trying to "bum scoot" out of his "prison". Ma had to get a nurse to put him back where he belongs! His nurse has also given him a soother, and although he doesn't suck on it regularly, it almost fell out once and he sucked it right back in! (A good sign, as it verifies that he has his suck reflex!) He is still ventilated, but is almost back down to the equivalent of room air.

The nurse that Sha has right now is absolutely awesome. When Ma went to take some breastmilk down to the NICU last night, the nurse told her that she was sick of Ma not being able to touch her son. She also said that Sha was probably sad, as he hasn't heard Ma's voice in 3 days. (I told her she should go swear near him and then he'll really feel like he's still in her womb!!!)

Anyway, Ma called Pa to come down the the NICU and the nurse took the hood and sides down of the incubator and said, "Look after your son!" So, Ma and Pa each got to touch Sha, really for the first time, and they each put a hand on his head. Sha also grabbed each of the fingers and held on for dear life. (Another good sign, as he obviously has his grasp reflex!). This was by far the greatest moment for the new family. The first real bonding moment.

Day 3 of Life - UPDATE

Little Sha has received a blood transfusion. This isn't something to be concerned about. Since he is so little, there isn't much blood in his little body and they have to draw blood often to conduct tests to check his progress.

His blood pressure was actually dropping (the exact opposite problem his mommy's having) and this was a concern because sudden changes in blood pressure can cause the blood vessels (especially in his brain) to rupture...which is something we want to avoid. So, they have given him a transfusion to get his blood pressure back up. They will also continue to watch his brain for any signs of bleeding (this is known as intraventricular hemorrhage or IVH). The chances of him contracting a disease from the transfusion is remote (around 1:25,000,000), so the benefits far outweigh the risks.

The doctors have doubled Ma's dosage of Labatelol. Pressures are dropping, but Ma is still in isolation and on bed rest (because they are still high...especially considering the amount of drugs they are giving her!). No phone, no light, no visitors, no reading, nothing. She's getting bored! Hopefully, she'll be better tomorrow.

Pa is trying to stay occupied...but is locked in a dark room with his wife, not allowed to talk!

Pictures

Pa's pics of the beautiful boy!

Day 3 of Life - June 21st

Last night, Sha received 2 more doses of a drug called Surfactant. Surfactant is injected directly into his little lungs and is a soapy substance that prevents his lungs from collapsing. After receiving this medicine, his oxygen level requirements have decreased yet again and he has almost reached 25% oxygen (room air is 21%). He is still on the HFV, but is doing really well. Otherwise, there isn't much to tell about Sha...he's stable and doing well.

Ma, on the other hand, has been a huge pain in the butt. She was put on isolation again last night, as her blood pressure went through the roof. They have her on blood pressure medication, called Labatelol, and are increasing her dosage today. Even on the medication, her blood pressure is out of control. Most mothers would be able to go home today, after a C-section, but Ma will remain in hospital. Although, she doesn't mind too much, as Sha is here and Pa has moved in.

Pa is finally catching up on some much needed rest. I don't think that he has slept since Friday. The cot is about 2 inches too short for him, but he's close to his wife and son and is now able to sleep. He went to bed around 10:00 last night and still sleeps on...12 hours later.

So far, today is a "slow news day", which is really good news!

Day 2 of Life - UPDATE

GOOD NEWS...Sha's head ultrasound unofficial results have come in and so far, his brain looks good! Also, his ventilation requirements are decreasing, so although he is still on the HFV, his respiratory efforts are improving!

Ma gets to have a shower and then she's planning a nap. Pumping continues and is becoming more successful.

Pa will go home to get his things to move into the hospital!

Continue your positive, loving and supportive thoughts...and hopefully, things will continue to improve for both of them.

Day 2 of Life - June 20th

Ma is coming down off the drugs. They removed her catheter this morning and is up and moving around more. Last night, they had her stand up and she took 5 hits of morphine, but she stood up! Of course, then she had to have a nap! Ma still isn't up to visitors yet, but is very much getting back to herself. Although, she is very glad, since she has her own room now.

She got to go see Sha for the first time since his birth, but was only allowed to see him for a few seconds (he's still not allowed visitors). Since she works in the hospital, some of the staff took a few pictures of him and Ma has them hanging beside her bed in her room.

She has started pumping for milk and although not totally successful yet, is making progress. The breast milk will be very healthy for Sha, so she feels like she is helping him.

The nurses have found a cot for Pa, so he's going to come and stay at the hospital with Ma for a few days. They'll both be close to Sha and will be able to support eachother.

Sha has had a set-back. Last night, they had to put him on a high-frequency ventilator (HFV) to maintain his oxygen levels in his blood. This is a stronger ventilator than the one he was on before. They suspect that he has a pulmonary hemorrhage, which means that his lungs are bleeding. This is common in preterm babies, as their systems are not yet mature enough to be outside of mom's body. Their little blood vessels are very weak and can rupture easily from the stress of being outside of the womb.

Along with pulmonary hemorrhage, often comes a brain bleed. They are going to do a head ultrasound this afternoon to check for a hemorrhage, but they won't be surprised if there is one.

Day 1 of Life - June 19th

Ma is on some serious drugs. They put her on Morphine, for pain control, but it turns out that she is allergic, so they have her on Benadryl, to control the hives! Leave it to Ma...she never likes to do anything the easy way. So, Ma is as high as a kite. She's been sleeping on and off all day.

Near the end of the day, the nursing staff gets her to sit up for the first time, which causes her blood pressure to spike. Visiting priviledges now revoked.

Sha has been venilated on the equivalent of room air, which is awesome. They had to sedate the little guy today, because he's moving around so much that he's removing his own probes. One of the doctors looking after him said that she went into the NICU and he started waving at her. I think he's as stubborn as his mother!

Right about the same time that Ma started having pressure issues, Sha did as well and he also lost his visiting priviledges.

The waiting game begins.

It's a Boy! - June 18th

This blog has been created to help keep the friends and family members of Shabooblah informed on his progress. It will also serve to chronicle the difficult journey ahead. The name Shabooblah is fictional, in order to protect his identity. Shabooblah's mother will be referred to as Ma-booblah. Their names will be shortened to Sha and Ma, respectively. Daddy, known as Pa-booblah, will be referred to as Pa.

Here's the information that most of you already have...

Ma had really high blood pressure and when she went to her doctor, she also discovered that she had protein in her urine. This condition is known as preeclampsia, which is not good for either Ma or Sha. After many tests on both Ma and Sha, they made the decision to induce labour for the health and safety of both.

Sha was quite happy where he was, which was not surprising, considering he was approximately 14 weeks (3.5 months) premature. The doctors ended up having to do a C-section and had to knock Ma out completely, as she is feisty and was causing problems for them! (Not a surprise for those of you who know her well!)

On Sunday, June 18th, at approximately 9:15 pm, Shabooblah was born at 25+6 weeks gestational age, weighing 710 g (about 1 1/2 lbs). He was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for further management. He was ventilated, but breathing the equivalent to room air and was doing very well. However, he has a long road ahead of him, as he isn't supposed to be here until September 25th. It will be a roller coaster ride; one minute he'll be doing really well and then he'll crash...but we'll have to stay strong and positive for Ma and Pa.

Ma was hopped up on all kinds of drugs, so she was really groggy, but was recovering. Pa was the proud daddy, running around with his camera around his neck!

Everyone went to have some much needed rest.