She's here!!!... **update #9** with more pics!

[spannaz]

UPDATE #9: in comments. Final update because we're home!!

UPDATE #8: update in comment #172 with pictures!

UPDATE#7: update in comment #147 (couldn't post any more pics here).

UPDATE #6:

So far so good. No news is good news. We're just trying to get her to gain some weight. She's down to 2lb 13oz from 2lb 15oz and they're beginning her on supplements in my BM to raise the caloric content. She's tolerated two feeds on that so hopefully she'll start gaining weight a bit more quickly. I'm managing to just keep up to her intake with my pumping and hopefully she doesn't surpass me. Although if she does at least there's still the donor milk.

Other than that, she has her cranial ultrasound on Wednesday but the doc said it was just for screening purposes. He said she hadn't been exhibiting any symptoms that would be a cause for concern.

Here she is with Daddy on Father's Day, as well as a nice close up (my fave pic of her now).

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/18/2unyva3u.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/18/e6e2a2a4.jpg

Thanks again ladies for all your P&PT!! They've helped immensely seeing so much love for my little girl!!

UPDATE #5:

We got some great news yesterday. The doctors are so pleased with her progress that they have moved her from the high level NICU hospital to a hospital closer to home. Normally this hospital doesn't deliver babies before 32 weeks, so she is the youngest baby in there at the moment at 30w3d. But all the nurses are very impressed with how well she's doing. She is breathing completely unassisted at the moment and keeping her O2 sats at a great level. The only issue she's had so far are a couple elevated bilirubin levels and so she's been under the light a couple times now. We're praying she continues to do as well as she has been. Here she is minus the breathing tubes enjoying some kangaroo care time.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/14/anu8ahuh.jpg

UPDATE #4:

Thanks everyone. We are so incredibly in love and enamoured by her. She got her cpap mask off today as she's been breathing room air since birth. Now she just has nasal canulas which means we can see more of her beautiful face and full head of hair.

American_mama: I was going to speak to my OB about delayed clamping at my next visit, but it turns out it's now the standard here. I was so thrilled the doc brought it up in the delivery suite as a possibility if she came out and could handle the delayed minute without any medical attention (which she did no problem).

As far as I understand they like to keep preemies in the NICU until they are considered full term, which means she will likely be there for the next 6-7 weeks. Now it's all about establishing a routine of pumping and visiting her. So far, I've managed to spend the better part of two days with her at the hospital, and I already can't wait to see her tomorrow.

Here she is without her mask and sprawled out :).

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/12/ehunu8u9.jpg

UPDATE #3: She's here!!!

A few hours after my second update the cramps began to really come on strong. They felt much more like the ones I felt that brought me into L&D earlier in the week. So they hooked me up to the monitor and as I'd thought they were coming more regularly and getting stronger. And her heart rate was decelerating with each contraction. They told me this is because my fluid level was low-normal so each squeeze of the uterus was causing her to push against her umbilical cord. After 3 decelerations they rushed me up to a delivery suite where it was determined that I was 8cm already. And from that moment on everything went very quickly. I arrived in the delivery suite at 3pm, started pushing at 4:15, and she was born at 4:39. I opted for no meds which I definitely regretted for just the moment she crowned. But otherwise it was ok. She tried her hardest to breathe and cry on her own, and she did so well for those first moments that they even managed to delay clamping so she'd get the max benefit from her cord blood.

So, here she is. Madeline Elizabeth born on June 8, 2013 @ 4:39pm, weighing 2lb 15oz, at a gestation of 29w5d.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/09/uba4a2yh.jpg


UPDATE #2:

The meds wore off yesterday afternoon and all went well through the night. Started getting some cramps this morning but they're not as bad as they were on Tuesday/ Wednesday. Guess it's just a wait-and-see game now. I'm to let them know if they get more regular and more intense. Fingers crossed this just stays put. OB said if things continue with just mild cramping, I may go home tomorrow or Monday, but will be closely monitored on their Ante-Natal home program.

Thanks again ladies for all the wonderful success stories. They help more than I can say.

UPDATE:

All went well through the night. I slept with no signs of contractions. Had some this morning but they were super mild. Little girl has been very active, in particular when they try to monitor her or when I went for the ultrasound. Ultrasound shows her weighing just under 3lbs, and apparently that's good for my gestation. Fluid levels showed low-normal but all my ultrasounds have shown that. They did an exam to check if I was leaking any fluid, and that came back negative so no rupture. If I had been leaking, I would have been placed on antibiotics. OB doesn't seem concerned about fluid level. Got my second steroid shot this morning yay! So as long as I make it to tomorrow morning at least, then they can do their job. I'll be taken off the meds to slow labour tomorrow so we'll see what happens then. They haven't checked my dilation since yesterday as they don't want to keep going in there in case it aggravates anything. Tomorrow and the next day will be the critical days to see if she wants out.

Thank you sooooo much for all the prayers and thoughts. It means the world to me knowing so many are sending good vibes to my baby girl. And all the reassuring stories are great. You ladies are amazing on this forum!!

I'll keep updating as I can.

----------------------

So I started cramping yesterday morning but had been constipated all weekend so thought that must be what was causing it. And after last night of more intense, more regular cramps I was sent to L&D this morning. When I got here I was 3-4cm already. They transferred me by EMS to the hospital in Calgary that takes babies before 32 weeks. As soon as I got here they checked again and said I was 8cm. Things moved quick at that point. Got to the delivery suite could see all the gear ready for delivery, and I guess the suppository they gave me to slow labor finally kicked in. The OB re-checked me and said I was closer to 5-6cm (as opposed to what the nurse practitioner said), and that they were moving me to another unit since labor was slowing not accelerating. Now the contractions come like every 1-2hours :).

Neonatologist has decided to put me on the same med, orally, for 48 hours to allow for a second dose of steroids to help baby's lungs. After that they can't give me more of the drug as long term use can cause issues with baby's kidneys.

So for now we're on a 48 hour hope and wait that she can get the help she needs before coming into this world. Doc thinks i'll likely deliver after going off the meds because I'm already 5-6 cm with my membranes bulging. I guess we're also hoping that my membranes don't rupture before the 48 hrs so as not to put me in labor.

Prayers and thoughts are welcome. Thanks ladies!! I'm 29+2.


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[kaharris83]

Sending you PTs!!

[ShanaMama]

Sending PT your way! Keep us updated.

[BDKmom]

Lots of prayers for you and your little one. Hang in there just a little longer sweet baby!

[Liziz]

Lots of P&PT for you and your little girl.

[sariana]

With my first I went into labor at about the same point--29 1/2 weeks. He stayed in there for a couple more weeks and arrived at just shy of 32 weeks. P & PT that your LO stays put a bit longer so she can get stronger.

My DS is almost 9 and is completely healthy.

:hug:

[megs4413]

prayers!

[ECUPirateMom]

sending my prayers!!!

Sent from my SGH-T989

[jbbhb]

P & pt!

[Tondi G]

P & PT that your little one stays put a bit longer! Keep us posted!

[Beth24]

Sending PT your way. Hope things go as best they can!

[elektra]

Good luck! Positive thoughts!

[MontrealMum]

Sending lots of P&PT!

[citymama]

Sending major P&PT your way. I hope your baby girl is able to hold her horses! And that your membranes stay intact, labor sloooooows the heck down until she is good and ready to be born. Rest, rest, rest! BIG hugs.

[Multimama]

I'm glad you're in a place where they can help you and your baby girl! More PT coming your way.

[WatchingThemGrow]

Sounds like you have a great medical team in place! Hope you're able to rest well there! P&PT for you and your baby girl!

[Philly Mom]

Sending you lots of positive thoughts!

[Snow mom]

Sending you and your baby girl lots of PT.

[georgiegirl]

Hope she stays put a little longer. If not, preemies to very well at that age. It's crazy because I'm only a few days ahead of you (30 weeks today), and I'm so no ready to have a baby yet. Good luck!

[sarahsthreads]

Lots and lots of P&PTs! Stay in and cook a bit longer little girl!

My good friend's 29 weeker is a beautiful, smart, thriving 7 year old, so as scary as this might seem, don't despair. :hug:

Sarah

[oneontheway]

Sending prayers for you and your baby girl!!!

[scrooks]

Sending prayers and thoughts your way! Hope your little girl decides to stay in a bit longer!

[missym]

Sending lots of P&PT for you and your baby girl! :grouphug:

[wendibird22]

Lots of P&PT coming your way!

[123LuckyMom]

Prayers for health and peace for you and your little one!!!

[bostonsmama]

Adding my prayers that you miraculously have to stay on bedrest for another 4-6 weeks and get to deliver closer to term. My friend's water broke at 28 weeks (hole, more likely), and she stayed on bedrest in hospital until 32 and 33 weeks with her 2nd and 3rd pregnancies. Both of her kiddos stayed a while in the NICU a while, but they're both bright, energetic, talkative kids. God is good.

[mom3boys]

Sending you lots of P&PTs!! Hope she stays in a little longer, and glad you made it to a hospital that sound like it has the right facilities in place!!

[TwoBees]

Praying and sending PTs. I hope she says snuggled in there a bit longer (and that you can get the steroid shots in!). Statistically, girls fare better than boys at earlier gestations. Stay, baby, stay!

[AnnieW625]

Hope things are going well for you, keeping you and your little one in my prayers.

[mommylamb]

My fingers are crossed for you!!

[Still-in-Shock]

P&PT coming your way. One of my neighbors when I was growing up had all 3 of her children at 6 months - earlier than you. All three are very healthy adults. Sometimes God decides 9 months is too long!

[edurnemk]

P&PT and hoping she stays in there a bit longer!

[SnuggleBuggles]

I hope all the best for you and your family. Sending you some "stay in there" vibes.

[Indianamom2]

My best friend's daughter was a 27 weeker...and now is an incredibly healthy and happy almost 9 year old. Best wishes to you and your little girl....hope she stays put a bit longer!

[KpbS]

Praying for you and you little one!

[chottumommy]

Sending you and the baby lots of P&PT. Hope she stays put a little longer.

[jennilynn]

:grouphug: Praying all is well...

[Nemesia]

I'm praying for you and your sweet baby.

[Nemesia]

So happy to read such a positive update! :)

You're doing a great job, mama! Hang in there!

I will continue to pray.

[sariana]

Thanks for the update. The doctors told me my baby was around 3 pounds. When he arrived 2 weeks later, he weighed 4 lbs 9 oz! Big for 32 weeks.

Getting that 2nd steroid shot is a big deal. Stay in there, little girl, and grow some more! I have heard what a PP mentioned--early girls tend to do better than boys. And my early boy is doing just fine. Except for those 1st couple of weeks, he has been very healthy.

You are doing everything you can for your baby. When she does show up, you will be ready. P & PT still coming.

[TxCat]

Just saw this now - lots of P&PT for you and your little one!

[teresah00]

Praying

[WatchingThemGrow]

Great update! Sounds like things are going as well as they could possibly go!!! still praying!

[georgiegirl]

Glad the meds are helping.

Three weeks ago, one of my friends delivered twins at 30 weeks and they are both doing amazingly well. The little girl even nursed successfully for the first time two days ago. The funny thing is that the girl never needed a vent and only oxygen for a day, but she was only 2.2, whereas the boy was 2.10 but on the vent for 2 days then oxygen for a week or two (can't remember the details.). Girl preemies do so well.

[american_mama]

I hope Little Miss Impatient stays inside a little longer. PPT for the next few days and weeks.

[ShanaMama]

I'm glad to see your update. The steroid shots make a huge difference.
My sweet little 4 yo neighbor who was playing in my yard today was born between 25-26 weeks. Those first few months were challenging but now he's as cute as can be & you wouldn't know he was a preemie. He's teaching my boy all about trucks & dirt. :)

[rin]

That's so wonderful to hear! Keeping my fingers crossed that she decides to stay in where it's warm and cozy.

FWIW, the outcomes for babies born after 29 weeks are excellent. My cousins (twins) were born at 30 weeks, and they're now 12 years old and have no lingering effects from prematurity. The chances of escaping long-term effects at this gestation are very good.

[doberbrat]

thinking of you. Stay put baby girl!

[ArizonaGirl]

P and PT's.

I work in peds and the NICU world and I think you all are going to be just fine, girls tend to do very well early.

BBB mojo coming your way.

[Liziz]

Great update! Glad to hear baby girl stayed put long enough to get her second dose of steroids....and here's hoping she decides she wants to stay put even awhile longer! Keeping the P&PT coming your way.

[AngB]

My brother (now 25) was a 2 lb, 29 weeker back in the 80's before they routinely did steroid shots for lung development. No one would ever have any idea he was early, he had very, very mild asthma growing up but that's the only health problem he has ever had.

Sending P&PT that she can stay in there awhile longer!

[megs4413]

great news on the update! continued prayers for you and your baby girl!

I didn't want to post this earlier in case things didn't slow down, but I went into PTL twice (once with each kid) and they got it stopped and the kids stayed in to term. so it's possible!!! i also have two cousins who were 27 weekers back in the 90s and they are both very healthy and recent college grads. :)

[123LuckyMom]

Thanks for the great, positive update! I'm continuing to keep you both in my prayers.

[Rarick0]

Great update! Sending lots of P&PT for you and your baby girl!

[Piglet]

Waving 'hi' as a fellow Calgarian and wishing you loads of Stay Put Vibes!

[Melbel]

Sending more prayers and positive thoughts for you and your sweet girl.

[Beth24]

Just read your update! Baby stay in as long as you can! Hang in their mama, you're doing great.

[citymama]

Awesome update! Hang in there little one and keep growing! And hang in there, mama!

[Twoboos]

Good news on the update! P&PT coming!

[kdeunc]

Good update. Hope she hangs out a little longer.

[Simon]

That is great news! My first two were preemies and I had significant PTL with Ds3, they thought he was coming at 31 weeks, but after the steroid shots and a lot more relaxing on my part, we made it to 39 weeks (dialated 3-4 cm that whole time). I sure hope she stays put for another few weeks (although months would be even better!).

[MamaMolly]

Every moment she is inside is one to celebrate. You are doing a fantastic job, mama! Get some rest, relax as much as you can. P&PT coming to y'all!!

[spannaz]

Update in original post. Our little girl is here!! :)


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[plusbellelavie]

Wow incredible update!

She is gorgeous! Welcome Madeline! Congratulations!

[KpbS]

Congratulations! Lots of prayers that the next weeks go well and quickly. :hug:

[Rarick0]

Congratulations! She is beautiful!

[KrisM]

Somehow I've missed this!

Congratulations! She's beautiful!

[123LuckyMom]

Congratulations!!!! Welcome to the world, little Madeline Elizabeth!

[sarahsthreads]

Beautiful name for a beautiful girl!

Many P&PT that her stay in the NICU is short and sweet!

Sarah :)

[urquie]

Beautiful name for a beautiful girl!

Many P&PT that her stay in the NICU is short and sweet!

Sarah :)

:yeahthat: yes, that exactly! Congrats and hugs! :hug:

[georgiegirl]

Congrats! I hope she continues to do well.

[Tondi G]

Wow!

She is beautiful! Welcome to the world Madeline! Congratulations Mama!

I hope her stay in the NICU is short and uneventful!

[DietCokeLover]

Congratulations! She is darling and I love her name!

[edurnemk]

Congratulations! She's beautiful.

[ZeeBaby]

Congrats! Hoping she goes home soon.

[sunshine873]

Ww, I was gone all weekend and logged on to read this. She is beautiful! Congratulations, she's a good size...should do well, but I will pray for her and you. My DD made her arrival at 26 weeks, so If you have any questions, I've been through it and can sympathize. I know the NICU can be a roller coaster ride. But the bottom line is, she is here, she is beautiful and it sou DS like she's doing well. Please keep us posted

[Philly Mom]

Congrats! She is beautiful! Hoping for a you all to be home together soon.

[missym]

Congratulations, she's beautiful! I hope she continues to do well and is home soon.

Welcome, sweet Madeline! :waving4:

[MontrealMum]

Congratulations, she's beautiful! :bighand:

[AnnieW625]

Congratulations!

[SnuggleBuggles]

Congratulations to you and your family. I wish you all the best.

[Indianamom2]

She's beautiful!!! Congratulations!

Hope her stay in the NICU is short and uneventful and that she is home with you as soon as possible.

[amandabea]

What a little beauty! I was teary eyed reading your updates. Glad to hear she is doing well. Many hugs to you.

[flashy09]

Congratulations!

[citymama]

Welcome, Madeline! Congrats mommy on the non-meds birth, and beautiful bundle. Sending all good wishes to baby M for strong and healthy lungs and everything else - grow, baby, grow! :heartbeat:

[Still-in-Shock]

A beautiful baby and a beautiful name! Hoping her disposition is the same

[Liziz]

Congratulations! Sounds like she's a strong little girl...I hope her NICU stay is short and wish all the best you you. Her name is beautiful.

[TwoBees]

Oh mama, congrats! She's beautiful and looks really healthy (and less scrawny than my DD did in her first photos). I hope her stay isn't too long. Have you started pumping yet so that she can have BM as soon as they start NG feeds? :hug:

[kdeunc]

Congratulations. She is beautiful. Hope she thrives in NICU and has a short stay.

[Nemesia]

Congratulations!! She is beautiful and I love her name!

[gcc2k]

Congratulations! I hope the next weeks in the NICU go well. I adore her name. DS2 wold have had the same name if he had been a girl.

[MamaMolly]

Congrats! What a beautiful little darling you have there!

[bostonsmama]

Congrats! She is beautiful even with all that tubing. Praying for her complete recovery and ability to breathe on her own and go home as soon as possible! Hugs.

[american_mama]

congratulations! That is a beautiful, classic name and she looks great in her photo. Was it your request to delay cord clamping or the doctors idea? I have heard mothers/internet/some midwives talk about the benefit of delayed cord clamping, but I had never heard of that being promoted by ob's.

[lmh2402]

congratulations - she's beautiful!

[mom3boys]

Congratulations!! Logged in just to see this update. I think she looks great, very healthy. Hoping her stay in the NICU is short and uneventful. And Gemini is a great sign!! (according to me and DS2 :))

[Ceepa]

Congratulations. She's beautiful!

[ShanaMama]

Congratulations! She is beautiful. I hope her NICU stay is short & in exciting & she does really well.

[boogiemomz]

Congratulations!!! She is a beauty, and I love, LOVE her name! Hope the NICU stay goes smoothly and quickly and you are home with this sweet little bundle as soon as possible!!

[elbenn]

Congratulations! She's a beautiful baby!

[TxCat]

Congratulations! Beautiful name for a beautiful baby! Hoping for lots of good feeding and growing in the coming days in the NICU. I'm sure she and mama will do great!

[todzwife]

She is so tiny and sweet! Congrats!

[spannaz]

Another update in original post :). Thanks everyone for your well wishes!!


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[123LuckyMom]

Oh, she's really beautiful-- and progressing so well! What a strong and capable little girl!!!

[kdeunc]

She is beautiful and looks so healthy!! Glad you are both doing so well.

[sweet_pea]

Congratulations! So glad to hear she's doing well so far. I hope the remainder of her NICU stay goes smoothly. Best wishes to both of you! Oh, and I think her name is beautiful!

[sarahsthreads]

Oh my goodness, look at all that hair! And the toes! She is so, so beautiful.

I hope those 6-7 weeks just fly right by and before you know it you're home together and enjoying non-stop baby snuggling. :)

Sarah :)

[TwoBees]

She sounds like she is doing great. Keep up the good work! :)

[ShanaMama]

I just have to say again how beautiful she is.

[Tondi G]

Awww so happy to hear she is doing well! She reminds me of my DS1 ... that dark head of hair! GROW BABY GROW!

[sunshine873]

Great update! :applause: I remember the day CPAP came off DD.So exciting to really be able to see her face!

[mommylamb]

OMG, she is so beautiful!!!!

[spannaz]

Another update :).


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[Indianamom2]

Awww...she is beautiful!! So glad to hear that she's doing so very well. She's a fighter. Thanks for all the updates (and pictures!) Take good care of yourself too, mama!

[Snow mom]

Congratulations, she is so incredibly precious. I'm glad to hear she's doing well. Keep it up baby girl!

[Tenasparkl]

Congratulations! How great that she's doing so well. What a sweetie!

[sariana]

I'm late with my congratulations but so happy to read your positive updates!

We were told DS (32 weeks) likely would go home close to his original due date. He stayed in the NICU for 18 days--so nowhere close to 2 months! He also had to do the bililights, but it worked well and he was fine after that. Once he was able to master suck-swallow-breathe, they sent him home.

Your daughter is beautiful, and it sounds as though she is a strong one, too.

[essnce629]

Wow, she looks great and seems older than a 30 weeker! Wonderful update and she's doing awesome!

[TwoBees]

:cheerleader1: for update #5

We were also told DD would stay in the NICU until close to her due date. She came home a month beforehand (approx. 36 weeks' gestation). :)

[boltfam]

She is beautiful! Glad to hear she is doing well!

[Nemesia]

She is beautiful... what gorgeous hair!! So happy to hear she is doing so well!!

[queenmama]

PT&T! She's a beauty!

Lara

[ArizonaGirl]

What a complete cutie and gotta love the hair :love-retry:

[Still-in-Shock]

So glad that she is closer to home for you. What wonderful progress!

[MamaMolly]

Awwwwwww look at those long toes!!!! I want to SMOOCHIE them!!!! :heartbeat: She is precious, precious, precious, mama!!!!

[Melaine]

Somehow I missed all this! what a wild ride....congratulations and she is so sweet! So wonderful that she is doing so beautifully...hang in there Mama!

[TwinFoxes]

Somehow I missed all this! what a wild ride....congratulations and she is so sweet! So wonderful that she is doing so beautifully...hang in there Mama!

:yeahthat: where have I been! I sent you a PM. Congratulations on your new little one. My 29 weekers are now 5 year olds! Stay strong. :hug:

[bostonsmama]

What a sweet little peanut and great update!! She has so much hair on her head!!

[emily_gracesmama]

Aww she's beautiful and what a little fighter, so glad she's doing so well!

[123LuckyMom]

Great update! Thanks for sharing!

[lizzywednesday]

Thanks for all the updates!

She's lovely and is looking better with each post.

Lots of hugs to you & your family.

[Fairy]

Late to this thread, but very glad to hear how well she's doing! Sending much P&PT!

[elephantmeg]

congrats on moving out and on your beautiful DD! WTG girlie!

[spannaz]

Update #6 in original post :) With more pics :)


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[rin]

Oh spannaz, she's absolutely beautiful!!! What a lovely picture of her and your DH. It's making me tear up right now. . .

Lots of P & PT coming at you, and hoping that she sails through the next few weeks.

[Still-in-Shock]

Oh spannaz, she's absolutely beautiful!!! What a lovely picture of her and your DH. It's making me tear up right now. . .

Lots of P & PT coming at you, and hoping that she sails through the next few weeks.

:yeahthat::hug:

[megs4413]

grow, baby girl, grow! I hope she puts on some weight for you!

She is just precious and she sure looks like her Daddy in those pics! so sweet! How are you doing? pumping is so hard...good for you for doing it, though! Thinking of you guys! thanks for keeping us updated!

[sarahsthreads]

Oh spannaz, she's absolutely beautiful!!! What a lovely picture of her and your DH. It's making me tear up right now. . .

Lots of P & PT coming at you, and hoping that she sails through the next few weeks.

Yes this - that Father's Day picture is so, so sweet!

Sarah :)

[TwinFoxes]

She's absolutely adorable. That's so wonderful she doesn't need a nasal cannula to breathe. She'll be home before you know it!

[sariana]

She's absolutely gorgeous! Is she feeding by gavage? My DS hated that tube and kept pulling it out! Losing some weight is normal, but it is so hard when you just want her to grow and grow. She looks great, though, strong and with good color. Thank you for the updates and pics.

[todzwife]

What a tiny little pumpkin! I am so glad she's doing so well!

[gatorsmom]

Just wanted to post to say I've been praying for your darling daughter and following your story. Thank you for the updates and photos. She is beautiful!

[mom3boys]

Thanks for your updates! She is looking great--definitely resembles your DH!

[spannaz]

She's absolutely gorgeous! Is she feeding by gavage? My DS hated that tube and kept pulling it out! Losing some weight is normal, but it is so hard when you just want her to grow and grow. She looks great, though, strong and with good color. Thank you for the updates and pics.

Yeah, she's feeding by gavage but when they took out her nasal canula they placed the tube through her nose. When it was in her mouth, she kept pulling it out as well, lol. Like 5 times in a row one afternoon.



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[essnce629]

Wow, what a precious Father's Day pic! Hope she starts gaining weight quickly with the added supplement.

[mctlaw]

Congratulations on your beautiful daughter!!

[Liziz]

Thanks for your updates and beautiful pictures -- I've been praying for you guys! It's great to hear she continues to do well, and I hope those supplements help her grow, grow, grow!

[spannaz]

Update #7:

I had to start updating in the comments because I couldn't fit any more pictures into the original post ☺.

Madeline has been doing great in the NICU. No setbacks at all. She'll be 33 weeks tomorrow. She now weighs 3lb 14oz, so almost a pound heavier than birth. She hasn't quite started crying yet. But I'm ok with that because I can hear all the babies around me :p.

She was also moved out of her incubator last week and into a cot! That was quite the surprise when we came in one morning. We've tried breastfeeding (with a nipple shield) three times now, and she has her suck-swallow-breathe down quite well. The nurse even asked if we were sure of our dates because she seemed more advanced :).

I have had a bit of a setback myself this week though. I developed a yeast infection in my breasts and my supply drastically decreased (and it wasn't that high to begin with). If I get 0.5-1oz each pump (30 min each breast) I'm lucky. I started the Domperidone last week but haven't seen much change yet. Of course I'm still on the meds for the yeast so maybe that's why. Fingers crossed my supply comes in before they decide she's no longer eligible for the donor milk she's been getting.

Here are some more recent pics of our bug:

3209
3210
3211
3212



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[georgiegirl]

She is so sweet. Glad to hear she is doing well. Sorry to hear about the yeast. One great natural method for clearing up thrush (yeast on the breast) is grapefruit seed extract. Here's a link http://drjaygordon.com/breastfeeding/thrush.html

[Nemesia]

She is precious! What gorgeous eyes!! Sorry to hear about your supply/infection. Hopefully your supply will improve soon!

[MamaMolly]

She really is all kinds of cute! I hope your supply issues are better ASAP.

[spannaz]

Thanks ladies!! We really are pretty enamoured by her. And so proud she's such a strong fighter.


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[citymama]

So wonderful to hear about Madeline's progress and see the little cutie's photos. I'm sorry about your yeast infection - sending healing wishes your way. Please keep us posted!

[essnce629]

Ahhh, can't believe she's already gained a whole pound! That's awesome!

I hope you get over the thrush soon. I had it too after having DS2 and second the grapefruit seed extract recommendation. That's all we used and it cleared it right up.

[elektra]

She looks great! So big and healthy!

[sarahsthreads]

I was just thinking about you all over the weekend, what a great update! It sounds like she's doing awesome, and she's so beautiful!

Sarah :)

[TwinFoxes]

Wow, I'm really impressed she's in an open cot already! I feel like the girls didn't move into one until much later, but I'm not quite sure. I remember being so scared when they moved out of their incubator.

Have you tried More Milk Plus? It helped me so much with supply. And of course I'm assuming you have a hospital grade pump (my iron lung as DH called it because it was so huge and noisy).

She's so adorable. Elektra is right, great color. Grow baby, grow!

[spannaz]

Wow, I'm really impressed she's in an open cot already! I feel like the girls didn't move into one until much later, but I'm not quite sure. I remember being so scared when they moved out of their incubator.

Have you tried More Milk Plus? It helped me so much with supply. And of course I'm assuming you have a hospital grade pump (my iron lung as DH called it because it was so huge and noisy).

She's so adorable. Elektra is right, great color. Grow baby, grow!

I've heard of it from my friend in California and am going to see if I can get my hands on it here in Canada. I was planning to pick up some fenugreek capsules from one of our health food stores so will see if they carry More Milk Plus. Thanks for the reminder!!


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[TwoBees]

What a great update!! :cheerleader1:

[123LuckyMom]

She's adorable!!! Thanks for sharing!

Do get the More Milk Plus. If you can't find it, use the Fenugreek. You might also want to combine the Fenugreek with Blessed Thistle and Alfalfa. You'll get your supply back up in no time!

[anamika]

Only seeing this thread now. Oh my gosh what a cutie! And what a fighter - I am so happy to see all the updates.

[bostonsmama]

What a sweetie pie! She's looking more and more like a term baby every day! I love that zebra blanket. Praying the Dom does the trick with the milk. Do you think they'd let you pump while holding her or while in the nursery? I guess that's be weird to be around others...but it might help. I had the hardest time pumping, even though I had banner supply while DD actually nursed (and nursed over 2 years). I don't think poor pumping is a sign of low supply. It's just really hard to exclusively pump. :(

[KDsMommy]

Oh she is just soooo cute! So glad she's doing so well!

[Tondi G]

So happy to hear she is doing we well!!!! You can see how tiny she is in that last pic but wow ... she really looks so healthy. Almost can't believe she was such a preemie!!!! GROW GROW GROW baby girl! I hope you are able to get the yeast under control and that your supply starts to increase. Kellymom.com had so much helpful info for me when I was a new breastfeeding mama. DS1 and I battled thrush ... it was rough. I ended up taking 2 kinds of probiotics and eventually resorted to gentian violet. Eat lots of oatmeal!!!! Have you tried fenugreek?

[npace19147]

Congrats! My oldest was born at 29 weeks and was in the nicu for nine weeks. It was rough but we just celebrated her ninth birthday and you would have absolutely no idea. I am so thankful for modern medicine!

I haven't read all the responses so not sure if this was mentioned, but the things that helped my supply when pumping were doing it around the clock - setting my alarm for the middle of the night and pumping then was not fun, but really helpful. I also ate pb and j on oatmeal bread and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. I think the last one really did the trick! ;)

Feel free to PM if you have any questions, hope all continues to go well!

[ZeeBaby]

Great update!

[spannaz]

What a sweetie pie! She's looking more and more like a term baby every day! I love that zebra blanket. Praying the Dom does the trick with the milk. Do you think they'd let you pump while holding her or while in the nursery? I guess that's be weird to be around others...but it might help. I had the hardest time pumping, even though I had banner supply while DD actually nursed (and nursed over 2 years). I don't think poor pumping is a sign of low supply. It's just really hard to exclusively pump. :(

Actually, we pump bedside here in the NICU. The pods have privacy curtains and the unit provides pumps and bottles etc. :)

As for fenugreek, that's on my list as well. Can I take mothers milk and fenugreek at the same time?

Right now, I do set an alarm for the middle of the night (usually 2am and 6am so I can have at least one stretch of 3hr sleep :)).

I *think* it may be starting to show a change (hope I didn't just jinx it). Two days ago I started to increase the pump intensity. I'd feel pretty stupid if my real problem was that the pump wasn't strong enough lol. But whatever. If it means I'm getting milk than I'm ok with that.

Thanks for all the positive thoughts ladies! They've helped more than you know :).


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[lovebebes]

Ohhhhh what a beautiful baby girl!!!! Just saw this thread and wanted to say congratulations on your little miracle!

[npace19147]

About the pumping, one thing I wanted to add was make sure the flanges are the right size. I didn't know they came in different sizes when I started to pump and mine were not covering the proper area. Once I got the larger size it made a huge difference, both in terms of comfort and production!

[spannaz]

About the pumping, one thing I wanted to add was make sure the flanges are the right size. I didn't know they came in different sizes when I started to pump and mine were not covering the proper area. Once I got the larger size it made a huge difference, both in terms of comfort and production!

The LC at the hospital fitted me for the one size up from standard (27mm). A few days ago we tried the 30mm but apparently if its too big, it decreases output. Which happened to me and as a result I was engorged for a couple days. Thank goodness the flood gates opened a couple days later or I don't know if I would have been able to handle the pain. Thanks npace!!


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[todzwife]

She's beautiful!

[joonbug]

Just seeing this now, congratulations on your beautiful baby girl! She's doing awesome, you can be one proud mama! Let me know if you need to talk, another fellow preemie mom here, my child stayed longer in the NICU, 8 weeks even though she was born at a much later week. Seems like Madeline will be home very soon :)

[spannaz]

So it looks like we're finally in the home stretch :). Maddie had some big changes this week and it seems that they are now starting to be more discharge focused.

First, she has been taken off her caffeine! Since she's 35 weeks (and 2 days) her last dose was on Sunday. We're on day 3 of 10 of the "caffeine countdown". No dips in breathing yet and it's nice not to see her heartrate get way up into the 200's when she squirms. Fingers crossed things remain this way.

Second, she has been switched to Neosure supplement from a NICU only version. This is to prep her for discharge as that is what she'll go home on. The formula matter was a particularly difficult one for me. At 34 weeks they took away her donor milk and started supplementing with formula. I was devastated when this first happened as I was trying so hard to get my supply up so she could have BM every feed. Well it took a bit but I've finally come to terms with the fact that she'll have to have some formula (I'm still only pumping enough for maybe 6/8 feeds :(). What no one told me (and I wished they had earlier on) is that because of her young gestation, she would have been discharged on Neosure as a supplement to my breast milk regardless, since she would need the fortification of my BM. Even if I was producing bucket loads of BM she would still be receiving a little formula in the form of calorie supplementation.

So, since all this happened this week the nurses have actually started talking about discharge in 10-14 days. That's less than two weeks now!! Two weeks!! I have so much to do still at home that I'm starting to get slightly stressed (and of course that's not helping my supply :bag:).

Here are some recent pics of little Maddie.

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My fave caffeine look lol:

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Thank you again for all your best wishes! I truly believe in the power of thoughts and prayers for our little ones, and so appreciate how many of you have wished us well.





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[TwinFoxes]

That's great news. She's so cute! I love her eyes, and that hair!!!

[sarahsthreads]

Oh, that adorable smiley little face! Love love love the pictures, thank you so much for sharing! I am so excited for you that it's only a matter of days before she gets to go home. :)

Sarah :)

[sarahsthreads]

duplicate post - that's what I get for posting before coffee?

[TwoBees]

How wonderful how wonderful! I am so happy for you and your family!

[123LuckyMom]

Hurray!!!

[Tenasparkl]

That's great news! She's such a sweetie : )

[citymama]

What a doll! She is so unbelievably cute. Love that hair and those big brown eyes! Good luck with the pumping, and hey, what could be wrong with a little formula, especially for a kid who started early on caffeine? She's experimenting early! ;) Congrats on this amazing progress!

[spannaz]

Citymama- her eyes are actually dark blue right now lol. But will likely change to my husbands brown colour. Although I have blue-green eyes so I'm hoping they stay blue :p.


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[queenmama]

What a strong baby girl! Go, Maddie!

Love the caffeine pic and that smile!!!

Lara

[sariana]

I know it's difficult when things don't go the way you planned, but think how fortunate your baby girl is to be born in a place and time that has formula available to help her to be healthy and strong. You are doing an amazing job, pumping so much for her. Don't worry that she also is getting formula. You are giving her what she needs right now.

I tend to forget about it now, after 9 years (!), but my DS had BM supplemented with Human Milk Fortifier (I think?) when he was in the NICU. By the time he came home he was on straight BM, but he was born a bit later than yours, at 32 weeks. Regardless, he is strong and healthy now. Next week (July 25) will be the 9th anniversary of his discharge from the NICU to go home with us!

Don't worry about the things that "need to get done." Everything that "needs" to get done will get done. Just think about how special it will be when your little girl is home with you.

Thank you for the continuing updates.

[megs4413]

way to go, maddie!!!! hang in there, mama! you're doing an awesome job!

[MamaMolly]

PWESHISSSSSSSS! I am so in love!

[tmahanes]

She is absolutely adorable!!

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[todzwife]

She is tooooo cute!!!

[TxCat]

Adorable!!!

[spannaz]

Update #9: Final update- we're home!!

This is our final update because we were finally sent home. After 54 days in the NICU, at 37+2 weeks, little Maddie was discharged home, yay!! Her course in the hospital was uneventful with no ROP, no NEC, and no apneic events. They had recorded two Brady's in her chart but for both the docs said they wouldn't consider them true Brady's as they lasted seconds and there was no desat associated with them (and she rebounded almost immediately). The only thing she's left with is an umbilical hernia from all the preemie straining. Her going home weight was 6lb 2oz which is such a change from her initial 2lb 15oz :).

Thank you to everyone that sent their thoughts and prayers our way!! We can't tell you how much we appreciate it!!

Here are some final pics of Madeline (tube-free :)).

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[sweet_pea]

What great news!!! Congratulations and best wishes!

[kristenk]

What a sweetie! So glad she's home!

[Nemesia]

Goodness- she is such a cutie! So happy for you that you're all home. :)

[georgiegirl]

Congrats! I'm so glad she's doing well and finally home where she belongs.

[urquie]

Such great news!! She is absolutely adorable!!

[SnuggleBuggles]

Yay!!!!

[sarahsthreads]

Oh, she is just too cute for words! I'm so glad you're home now!

Sarah :)

[Snow mom]

So glad she's home! Hope she continues to do as amazing as it seems she's done so far.

[spannaz]

Thank you ladies!!!


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[elephantmeg]

congrats on taking her home! she is adorable!!!!!!!!!! Best wishes to you all for an uneventful babymoon!

[MamaMolly]

Gaaaaaahhhh! Cutest little thing!!!!!!!!!!!! Congrats, and have a lovely time together AT HOME!! :applause:

[joonbug]

I followed your story and it s amazing that she is home already! What a trooper, congrats and soak up those baby cuddles now!

[Still-in-Shock]

I am very happy for you!

[bisous]

Yay! Isn't it great to get them in the car seat and be on your way. She's absolutely adorable. :) Congratulations to you both!

[lizzywednesday]

Late to the "gone home" announcement here, but HOORAY!

Lots of hugs for you - the NICU road is hard to travel.

[Radswd]

Congrats! She's so cute! Love those big eyes :)

[boogiemomz]

I'm late to the announcement as well, but what a thrilling end to the story, to finally get to go home with your little sweetie!! Congratulations!!

[TxCat]

Love seeing the tube-free pics and that she is home now where she belongs. :) so happy for you and your family!

[spannaz]

I was just reminded of this thread when looking at my bookmarked threads, and thought I'd post another little update at 2 months adjusted age (4 months actual).

Little miss Madeline has been growing wonderfully. She is all smiles these days and cooing away. We're taking out first trip home to Vancouver next week :). Here are a few recent pics of our little girl.

I can't believe how fast time goes by and it seems like the NICU was ages ago. Thank you for all the support through that time- it was so nice to see such positive messages at such a difficult time :).
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/10/16/yvureba7.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/10/16/tadesyva.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/10/16/8edatyme.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/10/16/3yjadu8e.jpg


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[DietCokeLover]

What a beauty! Thanks for updating.

[joonbug]

Thank you for the update and beautiful pictures! She is beyond adorable :). Have a fun trip

[TwoBees]

She's beautiful and looks very healthy! Thanks for the update!

[123LuckyMom]

What an lovely little girl! Thanks for an uplifting update!

[MamaMolly]

She kills me. So dang cute! Love the updates! :applause:

[essnce629]

Thanks for the update! What a cutie!

[Tondi G]

Awww she is adorable! Thanks for the update. So glad things are going well and that she is healthy!

[Melaine]

Gorgeous girl! Love the happy ending after a rough start, thanks for more pics!

[boogiemomz]

Soooo beautiful!!! Thanks so much for the update, oh my what a cutie!! :love-retry:

[ShanaMama]

I didn't follow your whole thread as it was happening but I just read over the last couple of pages. What a journey you've had! Madeline is absolutely beautiful (& I love her name). May you have only joy from her.

[ZeeBaby]

Beautiful pics!

[Radswd]

She is absolutely beautiful! So glad you all are doing well. Thnx 4 update.

[bostonsmama]

What a doll! She is so lovely! I'm so glad it feels like 'forever ago' as I get ready to embark on my own CICU journey with our son. It was so helpful to follow your journey and updates. :)

[todzwife]

Beautiful little one!!!