They have Bella all cuddled up today because, until now, the temperature in her incubator automatically adjusted itself based on Bella's body temp. (Ex: If Bella got too cold, the incubator automatically heated up to maintain a normal body temp for Bella). Now, the incubator is held at one temperature (around 87 degrees), and Bella's body has to work to regulate her own temp. Well, she's still working on that skill and sometimes gets a little too cold, so they've bundled her up. She's got a hat, shirt, pants, socks, and a little blanket on...as well as a teddy bear (from Ava!) sitting right on her back. :) This is just one of the 254 baby steps preemies have to take in order to start to function like a full term baby!
Patrick finally got to hold her today! He hasn't held her in a day or two for one reason or another. So, it was his turn today...he's quite the multi-tasker: Bella, coffee, the Droid. :)
Bella is still slowly improving. She gained a little more weight today- 50 grams! Before we left, they told us that they would be removing her IV this afternoon/evening. Yay!! That means that now she has to continue to gain weight with just the breast milk, which she is handling very well. She's almost up to a full, normal feeding (based on her weight) 8 times a day, so we'll just have to wait and see how she does.
As for me, I'd say I'm doing pretty well mentally. Usually when I see Bella, I just get smiley, but every now and then I get a little choked up. I really can't wait to have her home. It's a little strange that I had a baby, then came home...with no baby. Basically, it's like we just picked up where we left off on Thursday morning...with a little more stress. I was missing her last night... feeling pretty sad. But, I guess that's to be expected.
More to come tomorrow :)
5 comments:
She looks fantastic. Glad to see that feeding tube out, too! Good to hear you are doing well with adjusting to a NICU baby's schedule...she will be home soon!
Hey Nora! Thanks for the comment! Her feeding tube is actually still in...you just can't see it cause she's all bundled! :)
We hope to bring her home soon!
I'm so happy Bella is doing so well! She looks beautiful! What a precious angel. :) I can't wait until you guys get to take her home!
:)
Lauren
She is beautiful Meaghan and Patrick! I cannot believe how much hair she has! Can't wait until you get to bring her home. Can you spend as much time at the hospital as you want or do they limit your hours?
She is absolutely beautiful! You guys are so blessed to have her, I can't believe how strong she is! Congratulations! We'll keep you in our prayers!
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