Well, yesterday was Kaitlyn's 101st day in the NICU. She's a Centurian!
Of course she's pulled out her nasal feeding tube a few more times (it is supposed to last a month!). But yesterday I was able to take a few pictures while it was still out.
Her feeding is still the same - not great. Mom is getting very frustrated, as she wants her daughter to come home, and she can't come home until she starts taking all of her milk.
Kaitlyn was at least switched to "on demand" feeding, which means that she will be able to eat when she's hungry, but still has to take at least 120 cc's every shift (every 8 hours). So if she doesn't "nipple" any full feeds she will still have to be gavaged what she doesn't take. The thinking is that she will wake up hungry if she hasn't had a full feed and want to eat more. So far this hasn't seemed to have helped.
Of course she's pulled out her nasal feeding tube a few more times (it is supposed to last a month!). But yesterday I was able to take a few pictures while it was still out.
Her feeding is still the same - not great. Mom is getting very frustrated, as she wants her daughter to come home, and she can't come home until she starts taking all of her milk.
Kaitlyn was at least switched to "on demand" feeding, which means that she will be able to eat when she's hungry, but still has to take at least 120 cc's every shift (every 8 hours). So if she doesn't "nipple" any full feeds she will still have to be gavaged what she doesn't take. The thinking is that she will wake up hungry if she hasn't had a full feed and want to eat more. So far this hasn't seemed to have helped.
Look Ma, nothing in my nose!
A close up, look at those chubby cheeks, double chins and rolls on her arms.
Here are some "early" pictures for size comparison, this was taken on Halloween, 10-31-05.
My hand for comparison on Halloween
This was taken just a few days after Kaitlyn was born.
4 comments:
Thanks so much for the update Liz. It was SOOO nice to meet you the other night. I won't hold it against you if you don't remember who I am! (Tall, with curly hair). I'm so happy that Kaitlyn is off oxygen. Another big step. Don't worry about her not eating on her own yet. This is normal. My daughter was born at 36 weeks (5lbs 7 oz.) and she couldn't eat on her own either. Too sleepy and not enough strength. She was gavaged for a week and we still struggled with her when she came home. It's just a matter of time and because she's gained so much weight, it shouldn't be too much longer. :) Hope to see you at the social this month!
Suzanne Gogna
Liz,
You and Kaitlyn are doing great. I know it's frustrating to have your little gal there in the NICU for so long. But you have come sooo far and made sooo much progress. Take time to just enjoy her (I know you already do) and you will look fondly on your memories of NICU and looking back at the progress she made. Remember that your Angel Corinne is watching over you and is with you both, giving you strength. You will make it home with your little one, and life will begin again. Enjoy every minute!
God Bless,
Jodi from prom
Liz
Wow, Miss Kaitlyn is off oxygen, that is so great! I love those chubby cheeks and the looks she gives in your photos. Hopefully the little gal will start chowing down big-time.
I understand how much you want her home and to have a somewhat normal new mom experience. I hope all goes well with her development. Thank you for sharing your brutally honest joys and fears with us all of us.
Today was a big day for us. Kyle turned 6 months old (3-1/2 months adjusted). We made a social visit to the NICU and his perinatologist. We got to share our gratitude with the people who made his life and healthy survival possible.
Wishes of good health for Kaitlyn.
Laurie
Congratulations to Little Miss Centurian! And to mom and pop who have weathered the way! I loved catching up today on your site! I cried of course when i saw the sweet picture of Corinne and Kaitlyn! (tearing up just writing it now!) I can't believe you and Brian have been driving back and forth for 3 months..I only had for 3 weeks and was frustrated. You guys are such amazing parents. I am so happy to see all the family support you have around you too. It's so beautiful. Congratulations again on coming this far! She is such a sweet CUTIE pie!
All our love!
Lisa Haugen and Family
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