Try, Try Again...

If at first we don't succeed, try, try, again. As you might imagine, we Gilstrap's do not give up. Kennedy tried her best efforts with the CPAP, and we commend her for making it more than 24hours. Her little lungs just weren't quite ready. Don't worry because we will try again soon, and she will be ready.

Both Drake and Kennedy were able to get their PIC lines out of their little arms today. Kennedy has had good results on full feeds, meaning she is receiving her total nutrition from mommy's milk; therefore, she no longer needs additional nutrition through the IV. Drake was not quite ready to have his removed from a nutrition standpoint, but the swelling in his shoulder made the doctor feel removing the PIC would help his shoulder heal. They added a new IV so he can continue to receive the additional nutrition that he needs as well add the other medicines he needs. He has moved up to higher calories in his milk and will be on full feeds like sister in no time.

Today, Kennedy was jealous of Drake because he got to enjoy kangaroo time with mommy and she was not able to because of the CPAP to ventilator change. Truthfully, she was so exhausted from giving all her energy to breathing that once they switched her, she was out. Mommy and daddy were so proud of the effort she gave.

As if we didn't have enough to worry about, the doctors said we have transitioned into the preemie growth stage, but this brings with it the potential for more complications. He was telling us they are watching for Necrotizing Enterocolitis...whoa, what a scary name. Oh, only 5% of preemie babies get this...So the glass is always half full, the odds are in our favor.

Drake's knee is not getting smaller, nor is it changing from the purple/blue coloration it has. This worries the doctors since they do not know what is wrong with it. They are monitoring it closely and will order a sonogram on Monday.

As always, your continued prayers for their health are much needed and appreciated.

Pictures: mommy & Drake, mommy, daddy & Drake, Kennedy looking "Pretty in Pink"