Tuesday, November 10, 2009

ZAC Got A Bath

There isn't a lot of things for ZAC to do in the NICU that are designed to keep her entertained so when your very first 'Bath Time' arrives, life is pretty good, and when mommy gets to do the bathing, well, so much the better, and when after your bath you get to sport a spiffy new outfit to boot... well, life is grand indeed! Don't you just love that 'New Baby' smell?


As for the Zoe update, things continue to progress in a positive direction. The heart issue seems to be 'fixed', with the understanding that this could all change and her little world could come crashing down again... but for now there are no circulatory issues. As an added benefit, with Zoe's improved heart functions she has become less sensitive to sounds and this has allowed the removal of those stylish headphones... of course she remains in a 'sound restricted area' of the NICU. She has also become less fussy as well as less sensitive to touch, which allows Kim and Phil more physical contact without a decrease in her 'stats'.

ZAC's respiratory functions continue to be good, and while she remains intubated, her O2 levels float from 25% to 'room air', with the hope that in a very short time she can come off the 'tube' and just have 'nose plugs'. For now, all is well and the WMH staff remain optimistic.

The two major areas of focus/emphasis for the rest of the week are:

Occupational Therapy - Much of the 'in-womb' exercise that Zoe would be getting is now missing since she is no longer resides at her former address. In order to maintain a healthy baby, this necessity has to be replaced by the machinations of therapists. Put another way, Zoe now has a personal trainer. "Feel the burn, baby... feel the burn!"

Feedings - Now that Zoe can resume normal feedings, the goal is to get her to a 2cc feeding every 2 to 3 hours for a total of 11 feedings per day. This process started today, and it is hoped (and prayed for) that her digestive system is up to the task and this will usher in some additional weight gain.

As for Mommy & Dad, they continue to try to incorporate parenting with their work and life. Kim reports that she will be returning to the working roles in a few days, albeit in a limited capacity and Phil continues to be an active 'juggler' with all of his new found responsibilities. Twice daily visits are still the norm and Kim and Phil get those "Kangaroo Holds' in when they are offered, with Phil 'doing the deed' last night and Kim scheduled for tonight.

ZAC's GP



4 comments:

Tiffany said...

We are so happy things are getting better! We will continue to pray for little Zoe and her health but we are also thankful for what the Lord has done already.

Anonymous said...

wow- she is really on a roll! What great new, pictures, and apparel. How amazing to think you can gain weight on 22 cc a day! .
Prayers and thanks will continue for you all.

Gayle said...

So happy to hear the good news! Maybe next Zoe can request a massage therapist. There would have to be some benefit to that - wouldn't you think so?

A saying that I have on my bedroom wall to remind me of God's powerfulness - "EVERYDAY HOLDS THE POSSIBILITY OF A MIRACLE".

I will continue to pray that Zoe experiences those miracles on a daily basis Dave & Gayle

Anonymous said...

Hallelujah, prais His name. Are you fully trusting in His grace this hour? We lift up our eys to the Lord where do our help come from?
The maker of heaven and earth. O Lord, watches over Zoe's health and bless her just like You blessed Abram.

In Jesus name we pray. Amen.