March 05, 2009

Doing Well







These pictures are all of Ambrose today.

Sorry we haven't written anything for almost a week. The boys seemed to plateau and not do anything exciting for quite a few days. But, finally, there was a little action to write about! Overall, both boys are doing pretty well.

Charlie weighs 2 lbs 13 oz today. He is taking 23 mL of breast milk with 24 calorie fortifier every three hours. He is still battling apnea and likes to hold his breath for long periods of time, scaring all those around him. He had a pretty significant spell a few days ago when he stopped breathing for a full 35 seconds. They have raised the head of his bed because they think reflux may be aggravating his apnea. Ryan was able to hold him for a little while yesterday and lately he has showed interest in the pacifier (Charlie has, not Ryan).

Ambrose is 2 lbs 9 oz today. He is taking 20 mL breast milk with the 24 calorie fortifier every three hours. He is much happier on his new ventilator, which allows him to take some breaths on his own. It helps him breathe while not doing all the work for him. Every 6 hours they massage his little back with a hand-held vibrator to help loosen up and suction out the secretions that build up and collect in his airways.

Two days ago, Ambrose decided to make his day nurse work a little harder in the last two hours of her shift. Somehow, he managed to extubate himself. He either lifted his chin real high or pulled the breathing tube out with his hand. It caused quite a commotion in his little pod. Especially, since the only free bed available was about to be filled by a newly born (pink!) baby. The staff were running about getting things ready for the new one, then Ambrose decided to add to the excitement. He may have actually been jealous and wanted to shift some of the attention back on him! The nurses had to intubate him again and, after that, he rested peacefully the rest of the night. He did so well, in fact, that last night I was able to hold him for the first time. He opened his eyes for me and looked up at his mommy. He sure is a sweet little guy.

We try to visit the twins each afternoon and one of us, if not both, returns to see them in the evening. The day shift is a lot more hectic, with more doctors, surgeons, nurses, and parents running around. The evening is very different and allows us to spend more quality time with the boys. Sometimes during the afternoon visits we almost feel like we're in the way. We never feel that way in the evening. It's interesting.

Thanks again to all of you who are still praying for our family. And thank you to the brave ones who have kept John Paul and Josef for us, so we can go visit the little ones. You are all in our prayers. We have a great appreciation for your interest in the amazing journey of Charles and Ambrose. It's humbling to know so many people care about them and want to know their status each day. Don't forget...this Sunday the boys will be one month old! Whoa!

-Gina

4 comments:

  1. Thank you for the update, we were getting worried. The babies look wonderful. The are little gifts :-). You family is will continue to be in our prayers. Take Care,
    Cheri M.

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  2. Gina and Ryan,
    The photos are so sweet. We are glad when the progress reports have good news.
    And I am happy to know Gina maintains her sense of humor throughout all this. I laughed out loud at the comment about the pacifer(re: Charlie and Ryan).
    God bless, Nancie

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  3. Boys look so big! You are in my thoughts and prayers. Marina

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  4. i love seeing the pictures and hearing that they are doing so well!
    i will continue to pray for them each day.
    love Nicole Thompson

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