The Longest Stretch

We are in the longest stretch of the NICU stay - learning to eat by mouth (PO feeding). Anyone that has had NICU time knows that this wait can be somewhat agonizing. All of the major health hurdles like PDAs, brain bleeds, intubation, etc. are all behind you and the only thing you're waiting for is that light bulb to turn on for feeding by bottle/breast. It can feel like an eternity. I have to keep reminding myself that a) we really are in the home stretch and b) they will get it down sooner than later.

To all who have asked if there is any word as to how much longer before they come home, I think we're still sitting at anywhere from 4-8 weeks, depending on how well they pick up on feeding. They could pick it up quickly and be home by their due date of February 18th or they could struggle to pick it up and be home some time in March. Right now, we're thinking closer to 6-7 weeks and if they come home before then, what a praise!

Bryce weighs 4 pounds 6 ounces. He has finally gotten the green light to try PO feeding and so far has done well. He can try up to two times a day, provided that he's alert and showing interest (rooting). He fed once on Monday, taking 7 mls by mouth (a full feed for him is 38 mls). On Tuesday, he took 5 mls. Last night, he took 11 mls for Paul. This was the first time either of us had fed him. What a blessing to have him do so well for us!!

Grant weighs 4 pounds 6 ounces as well, just about 20 grams behind his brother. He is up to 35 mls per feeding but is still getting full feeds by NG tube as he hasn't shown that he's ready to try bottle feeding. Please pray with us that he will continue to improve with his pacifier and show the signs of readiness soon so that we can start him on PO feeding as well. The signs of readiness are being alert, rooting, maintaining a relaxed state when being held. Right now, he gets the hiccups or shakes a bit when he's brought out to be weighed or held - a sign that he's not yet ready.

Overall, both boys are doing very well. Both have had to be transfused in the past week but that is still to be expected as such young preemies. They are doing so well at gaining weight and are looking so much more like normal newborns, albeit still tiny in comparison to full termers. Paul and I are so blessed to be able to see such progress and growth in them each week. I have been struggling a tiny bit emotionally as I think I've just been running a little low on good sleep. I'm very ready to be able to have them home with me where I can see them 24/7 instead of once a day. I look forward to being able to cuddle them in my arms without having to put them down just 30 minutes to an hour later. They will be home before we know it and I just need to remember to give God all the glory for their improvements and be patient that they will be home in time, healthy and beautiful, even if its on noisy apnea monitors. ;)