Aiden's mom is home. Discharged this afternoon. Doing well. Maintains hope and manages to smile. Amazingly strong right now.
Aiden's Dad asked the nurse about personalizing Aiden's space. Told her he was going to bring in a towel or blanket to replace the ones they use. Something for Aiden to claim as his own. She said she thought it would be okay. Dad wasn't asking. Aiden will have his own blanket/towel on Sunday. He'll be "Cool in NICU"
Dad asked about holding Aiden. Explained to the nurse what he was up to and the nurse went to get permission. Pictures in next post.
The nurse returned with permission and helped Dad with wires and tubes to hold Aiden close. Dad explained that while Aiden was here, he would have as much natural comfort as possible and would know the hold of his parents. Aiden will not be just another NICU baby handled by nurses and observed by parents. She was supportive. (Like she had a choice in the matter!)
Mom couldn't hold him because of her surgery and the height of his table. She'll hold him in her arms soon.
Tending doctor made it a point to approach us and bring us up to speed. No skirting the issues or referring us to another doctor. He said the cardiologist, in his opinion, is the best they have. Noted all are great doctors but his experience w/ this particular cardiologist and his additional training have never led him to question diagnosis.
Doc said the next 2 weeks are especially critical. Need to get fluid production to satisfying levels and start normal feedings. Nourishment fron IV's isn't enough to promote growth and needed tissue strength. Stated that surgery can correct Aiden's cardiac issues but surgery now would probably cost Aiden's life. Unnecessary risk unless an emergency develops.
In two weeks, we can say Aiden is over the current hump but far from out of the woods. If he gets to normal feedings and gains strength and grows, evaluation of his condition and the next best strategy can be determined, possibly to include surgery at some point in the future.
Before we left, we discovered how long a minute really is. Aiden's alarms sounded. His oxygen saturation dropped to 61 from 95. The nurses pumped oxygen and plunged his lungs. Back to normal a minute later. We could finally remember to breathe and relax (not really). Nurses suspect a fluid "clot" blocked his lungs. Aparently the fluid can get thick and clot a little, blocking the lungs.
Aiden opened his eyes again today. His body is weak and stressed. Dad is concerned.
Nurse said he is a pretty mellow guy. Said most premi's at 32wks don't like any touch at all but Aiden lets Dad rub his head and hands and feet and cheeks and legs and arms without any negative response. Almost calming (for dad).
Dad has Aiden doing make-believe chin ups, pull ups, and squats. Dad moves his arms and legs, makes the grunting sounds and counts to 100. 1, 20, 100. And we're done. Great teamwork!
Aiden responds to voices randomly.
Mom and Dad are accepting of Aiden's health challenges and acknowledge the risks and probabilities. We will continue to embrace the opportunities to love and care for Aiden with selfless determination. We will continue to pray, hope, and love. We are blessed with Aiden and will make his stay comfortable and meaningful.
We are hopeful he will come home soon but must remain grounded.
He'll be home when the time is right.
Posted by: Dad
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