Friday, November 20, 2009

Baby Aiden - Hours 25-38

Baby Aiden shed more fluid. 70cc this morning, and 90cc more throughout the shift to 7pm. This brings his total excess fluid shed to approx. 320cc, roughly 10-11oz. Aiden's weight should be approx. 4.7 lbs. This is great progess towards getting him stable and relieving internal pressure on his heart and lungs.

His nurse said today would be a "leave Aiden alone day" since he was doing well and had so much attention yesterday. Only routine practice would be performed today. No extra scans, poking, or prodding.

The ARNP from the cardiologist's office said the tricuspid valve in the heart is the greatest concern right now. 2 smaller heart concerns exist but are less concerning at the moment. The cardiologist should be in tomorrow to discuss more details and considerations. Right now a wait and see approach is in play.

Brain scans should take place in about 5 or 6 days.

Baby Aiden's skin looks good. His hands and feet are so tiny. His tiny finger nails are somehow adorable.

He had his first transfusion this morning. Aiden's A+ and received 2 oz of O+ (compatible). His Uncle and I donated blood today for future transfusions.

Baby Aiden's mom and I spent more time with him today. Each time we would leave the NICU I would look back to him as I let go of his hand. He opened his eyes. I saw strength and determination. I gained hope and confidence.

His mom hasn't seen his eyes yet so the last time we went to leave NICU (so his mom could rest), I returned to Aiden and spoke to him. He looked me in the eye as if acknowledging. I brought his mom back to his side and spoke to him again. He opened his eyes, looked at me, then at his mom, back at me. Again I spoke and assured him. He again responded with open eyes. I can tell you that looking your child in the eye will never be the same after this experience. He knows he's not alone. We know he knows this. Amazingly, he is providing me, his dad, with great inspriation, hope, and strength.

I may struggle but with Aiden's inspiration I will endure. With everyone's love and prayer, he will overcome. There's a reason he was brought to us sooner than expected. Either he needed us or the world needed him. I think a little of both.

Posted by: Dad

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