Speaking of Fat Tuesday, Nicholas has broken the 3 lb. barrier! He now weighs in at 3 lb., 2 oz. Another milestone that he has reached is having his isolette set to room temperature so that he can work on maintaining his own body temp. Along with this big step, is getting to wear real clothes. We have several premie outfits that looked very small on the hanger, but on him, they are still large. He is looking like quite the big boy in his clothes! Along with the “big boy” motif, you will notice a picture of him in Nike high top basketball shoes, which were a gift from his cousin Andrew. Even the nurses were anxious to see him in these shoes, so this picture taking event was widely attended and anticipated. His mom can’t wait to shoot some “hoops” with him.
We have had a few minor set-backs along with our accomplishments (part of the premie dance of “one step forward, two steps back”.) Nicholas is neutropenic (he has very low white blood cells) which makes him highly susceptible to infection. For this reason he is in contact isolation. He also has low red blood cells (anemia). To help spur his bone marrow to increase RBC production, they have started a new medication (Epogen) that he gets as an injection. He is quite the trooper with his shots, very little crying. They hurt his moms more than they hurt him. Nicholas continues on the CPAP, but we have been able to turn the pressure down from 4 to 3. Hopefully by the end of this week we will start some trials of him being on the nasal cannula for limited windows of time. We both really miss seeing his cute little face.
We have had a few minor set-backs along with our accomplishments (part of the premie dance of “one step forward, two steps back”.) Nicholas is neutropenic (he has very low white blood cells) which makes him highly susceptible to infection. For this reason he is in contact isolation. He also has low red blood cells (anemia). To help spur his bone marrow to increase RBC production, they have started a new medication (Epogen) that he gets as an injection. He is quite the trooper with his shots, very little crying. They hurt his moms more than they hurt him. Nicholas continues on the CPAP, but we have been able to turn the pressure down from 4 to 3. Hopefully by the end of this week we will start some trials of him being on the nasal cannula for limited windows of time. We both really miss seeing his cute little face.
We also want to send a BIG THANK YOU to all of you for your continued support, prayers, good thoughts, cute clothes and much appreciated "care packages" and home cooked meals.
Oh Nichplas, How adorable you look in your "clothes" and of course your new "tennis" shoes. I can"t wait to hold you and kiss you...I know you are having a small problem at the moment...but I can wait...All my LOVE, Papa and Grandma
ReplyDeleteHi, Nicholas, Denise and Denise
ReplyDeleteI guess I should have checked the blog before I left you a voicemail message on my way home. I was so hoping that you 3 were back home and I'm sure you wish the same. Nicholas is so adorable, how blessed you are. I hope to come see him in person soon as I think I've finally getting rid of whatever flu has kept me down. I think about you and pray for you all everyday. See you soon, can't wait!
Happy Mardi Gras Nicholas and Mommas. Glad to hear of the ongoing progress. As for the steps back, keep a stiff upper lip Moms as it is a long road. The anemia certainly isn't unusual between being a preemie and drawing the bloods.
ReplyDeleteOf course, our stock (Amgen) appreciates the Epogen use. Wish it weren't necessary but at least there is a product that helps the bone marrow produce those red cells. Also one, Neupogen, that helps marrow recovery but they may not have to go to that extent we hope.
Nicholas, you look great in your Nikes. Judy is sure you will end up with 14.5 shoes. The outfit is so cute and we're sure you will outgrow the early ones and need quite a few more. Hard to believe it's been just over 6 weeks. Time flies by but it probably seems to drag for the three of you.
Mommas, just wanted you to know that Florida is cold. High today was about 54. But, supposed to be in the 70's this weekend. We did get out in the sun by the pool Monday afternoon. Temp. was about 70 then. Rest of the week is supposed to be upper 50's and then mid to upper 60's by Friday.
Love you all,
Judy/Dave
He looks great in those shoes. I also love the pictures where we get to see his face. Thinking of all of you! Leela
ReplyDeletei bet he'll be a tall one , DENISE M. ;) :D at least 5' 10" DENISE R. ;) :D basketball will be his thing!!!
ReplyDelete