Transitional Care

Eight Weeks, 56 Days, 33 Weeks Gestation

Still, 3lbs, 1oz

Off Nasal Cannula

Out of Intensive Care Nursery & In Transitional Care Nursery

Transitions is the perfect word to describe this week. I feel like we've been on a different kind of roller coaster, of late. Trying hind milk, supplements, medicines, fortifyers and respiratory support to boost her growth and development. Her weight has been up and down this week and I'm definitely pleased that she's off of the nasal cannula, but concerned that she's on a dose of Lasix every 8 hours. 

Here's a list memorable experiences for me this week:

• Cora and Matt starred in an educational video for NICU parents on Kangaroo Care - I can't wait to see it.
• Cora was moved overnight to the Transitional Care Nursery and out of Intensive Care Nursery - this is an awesome next step, and I can't wait to see her new pad.
• I am negotiating all the logistical challenges of pumping hind milk, and hoping that it makes a significant impact in order to keep her off formula.
• Cora's 33 week Eye Exam was "good." She is Stage 1, Zone 2 for ROP. We would prefer no ROP, but it is good that she has progressed to Zone 2, already. The mild incidence that she is currently showing requires no therapy/intervention. Checking again in 1 week.
• While I am interested in talking with the Eye Doctor, I would NOT like to witness the Eye Exam. I'm tough, but there's just some things that I don't think I need to see.
• I did witness a little vomit episode, because Cora's OG tube came up (almost out), somehow, and then a feed started, while I was there and it was not fun to watch. Kind of like the big Brady she had during our Kangaroo, yesterday, she's fine, but I'm scarred for life.
• I was successful in getting 80% of what I requested from HR in terms of my maternity leave. I wouldn't call it a victory, but at least I gave it every effort and I can close this chapter of the Babaian Preemie Book.
• Stella has been saying "Mommy, you go to the hospital every time." And, "Mommy, you pump every time." It breaks my heart, but we've had a really good week. Family Services gave us a book  The Invisible String and it resonated with Stella. We list all the people we love and remember that even when we're not together, we're connected by an invisible string and we can feel each other tug, when we need it. Donuts with sprinkles helped too.

 I'm glad to be riding this "battle with weight-gain roller coaster" versus the super-scary unknown status of the first few weeks of her life. I feel I will be adding Duke to my will, as I am so grateful for the care that's provided.

PS. I struggled with her 8-Week Picture. I wanted to get her eyes open, since she is much more alert these days, but she doesn't open them in the bright light, which doesn't work well with a camera and a flash is certainly out! I'm sorry this picture features her OG tube instead of her face without the nasal cannula, but maybe next week!?