Lucille continues to do better and get stronger. She spends a lot more time awake each day, and seems to be more aware of her surroundings. Her feedings have increased everyday, and hopefully soon she'll be eating enough on her own in order to bring her home. She has refused her last few feedings, and we've had to feed her from a feeding tube through her nose. The nurse seems to think it is because her digestive system is still coming around, giving her a lot of gas which makes her uninterested in food. This is really the final step in getting her out of the NICU and bringing her home.
As far as long term, the neurologist has told us that Lucille will be at risk for certain things such as cerebral palsy, behavioral problems and developmental delays. Although it sounds scary, we were actually relieved to hear that at this point she is functioning like a typical newborn, and these issues are only a possiblity for the future, and not inevitable.
Lucille will see a physical therapist tomorrow, and when we are finally discharged we will be set up with an Infant Stimulation Program which includes physical therapy and developmental specialists. She will be seen every couple of months in order to monitor her development and watch out for any issues she may have.
The neurologist couldn't stress enough how lucky Lucille is to have two amazing big sisters to help her develop. I'm pretty sure Eleanor and Violet are up for the job, and they're ready to get started as soon as possible, as are Casey and I.
Thanks again to everyone for all of the support and prayers for Lucille and our family. We feel like we are finally on the upswing and everyday gets a little better and a lot easier. We feel so blessed to be supported by our amazing families, and our friends have been incredible.
I'll post new pictures soon!
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3 comments:
That is great news! It sounds like she's is quite the stubborn little booger! Hey, who knew those genes would come in handy! So much love and blessings to you, Casey, Eleanor, Violet and Lucille! You and Cas are an amazing parents and even more amzing people.
Love
Claire
If the big sisters are her role models we are all in trouble- she will be talking nonstop by the time she is 1- I am so happy for ya!! Love you all- Bethie
Katie, all the prayers and love that can be said and felt are.
What a fighter Lucille is and we are so happy to hear you're getting a new puppy!
My Katie, upon hearing that story, wants to know why she doesn't have one...she pees every day!
Much love, Valerie and gang.
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