3 Weeks Old

I'm late posting this, but the babies were 3 weeks old yesterday! They are both doing pretty well, but, of course, still having their ups and downs. Both are pretty stable. Cade usually requires more oxygen, but I just called tonight, and he was actually lower than Camdyn on his oxygen at 42%. I think that's the first time he has been lower than her. She was at 55%. The nurses turned Camdyn on to her side, and she only likes being on her belly, so that's why her oxygen has gone up. They have to turn the babies different ways so they don't get bed sores, but she just doesn't like being any other way. When I called, they had flipped her back onto her tummy. The last few days she has been between 24-35% oxygen. Cade has been anywhere from 50-75%, but today he was mostly in the low 50s. So, I feel like we are making progress, albeit slow progress. I am thankful that we have not had any major setbacks.

Both babies are tolerating their feeds along with the fortifier well. The doctors have added iron as well today. Hopefully, this will help their blood counts so they won't need as many blood transfusions. They are also both receiving a medicine that helps their respiratory system develop. They will receive a second fortifier pack added to their milk soon to add even more calories. The doctors wanted to see how they would do with the first pack, and so far, so good.

The doctor yesterday told us that Camdyn would soon be ready to try to be off the oscillating ventilator and go either to a conventional ventilator or CPAP. This is a big step in the right direction. she would possibly go back onto one of the ventilators for a while if the CPAP isn't working for her. The doctors have told us that sometimes they just get too tired and have to go back on the ventilators for a while. Cade will not be ready until he gets off the antibiotic and stays more consistent and lower with his oxygen needs, but I believe he is getting there - slowly, but surely.

Although it seems like just yesterday that I went into unexpected labor, each day feels like an eternity. Time is moving fast and slow at the same time which I know seems paradoxical. I suppose paradoxes are the norm in this situation. What should have been one of the happiest days of my life was also the most traumatic days of my life.

But - we are here and this is what we have to deal with. We are thankful that the babies are doing as well as they are, and we will contine to pray for their health and growth.