Stages

"Every worthwhile accomplishment, big or little, has its stages of drudgery and triumph; a beginning, a struggle and a victory." ~Ghandi

As much as we want to fast forward to the victory, both of our babies coming home, we have to continue to endure each stage along our journey. Some days are easier than others, but they are all a step toward our final goal. Today completes 45 days in the NICU; therefore, we are 45 steps closer to our victory.

Drake is definitely feeling much better! He was even fighting with his doctor this morning when she came in for his morning exam. He is moving up on his feeds and will be back on full feeds in another day. We even got to have kangaroo time today! He is the best snuggle buddy, and it was wonderful to be able to hold him again! The antibiotics that he is on for the pneumonia seem to be working well. So far the blood cultures are not showing signs of an infection and neither is his urine culture. These are both good signs! The infectious disease doctor wants to do a spinal tap on him this week. This is not something that we wanted to hear, but we also do not want to run the risk of him having an infection in his spinal fluid and have him get sick again.

Kennedy's daily morning blood test showed wonderful results and they were able to come down even lower on her respiratory rate and pressure. This is a very good thing, but it means that she has to do much more of the breathing on her own. This was an adjustment for our little girl. Twice today she fell into a really deep sleep and apnea set in. Very scary for this mommy, especially when she did this while I was holding her. The nurses said she just got too comfy. Apparently, these types of episodes are to be expected while she adjusts to her new settings. It still does not make it any easier as a parent. She is doing good now and so far those were the only two scares with her today. Tomorrow is a new day filled with new hope as we continue in this stage of our journey.

Pictures:
1) Kennedy with eyes wide open
2) Mommy holding Kennedy
3) Drake with eyes wide open
4) Drake sleeping