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The girls get their own 'crib' much like they would at home, but they don't get kisses and hugs. The incubators basically are meant to recreate the mothers womb, even down to the humidity levels.
Adeline, our first born, has been the slightly smaller of the two. She initially struggled more than Maralee did. To increase her lung activity the doctors decided to introduce her body to caffeine. Shortly after, Adeline's lung began to flutter and she was actually creating short and quick breaths. Now these are not the ideal long and slow breaths needed to be self sustaining but they are breaths none the less.
For the rest of the day, Maralee struggled to keep up with Adeline. Eventually the doctors gave Maralee the caffeine as well but she still seemed to lag behind Adeline. At this point the doctors believed that Adeline might be able to be removed from the ventilator and just have oxygen provided to her through the CPAP. It was at this moment that our first act of sibling competition decided to show itself. Maralee decided to pull her own ventilation tube out and begin breathing on her own. She couldn't let her older sister get the best of her at this early in life.
With that said both the girls are currently off the ventilators, which is such a miracle to even write! Now before we get too excited, know that they will have to go back on them at some point because they can't sustain themselves yet, but I would certainly call this an improvement. It is certainly a high point on this roller coaster we are about to ride for the next eight weeks. Christen has been battling a little bit of a fever, but generally, she is healing really well. Thank you for the overflow of prayers and support. Your words are more than just text on the internet- they truly do lift up our spirits and renew our faith!
On a side note, I have my 6th of 7 registration exams this Friday. Of course my perfectly planned testing schedule has hit a bit of speed bump given the course life has taken this past week. I could use some prayers in this department too. I'm not asking for the Lord to pass me, I am asking that he will give me the strength study even though I desperately want to sleep and also the ability to focus on the task at hand even in the midst of such a life changing moment. With that said, off I go to study.
- Raleigh
6 comments:
Yea for progress! Competition is a good thing :) I saw the pics you took of the girls Sun. They are so tiny and so cute. I know you are enjoying seeing them without the vent. When you can, place a stuffed animal or something next to them when you take their picture for size perspective. I've also seen people place their wedding bands on their premies feet. Very cute :) We're still praying for healing for Chrisen, for cont'd progress for the girls and no complications, and for you to be able to focus on your studies. And, also for the day they send Christen home. I know it will be bittersweet!
Hey Christen and Raleigh! This is Kellie Patton (Katie's sister) - I am praying for ya'll - the girls are beautiful and I just know they are going to be fine!!!! God is so good! My firstborn, Emma Claire, was born at 32 weeks and spent 1 month in the NICU, so I know a little of what you are going through right now!!! Keep seeking Him and dig in His Word. Make sure you get plenty of rest and let those wonderful doctors and nurses take care of them for now - you'll have them all to yourselves before you know it and you need to be at your BEST!!!!
We are praying for the four of you. I too saw the pictures of the girls. They are so precious. We love you!
"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope."
- Jeremiah 29:11
Christen & Raleigh,
Such great news to hear about the girls breathing on their own! Let that sibling rivalry start early...looks like it can only lead to good things! :) You guys are in my thoughts and prayers and I am so happy to hear about all of the progress those little fighters are making!
-Katie
Congratulations on a hard "event" put at least you are getting a lot of media time! Ha, sorry. I am excited to keep up with these two girls and their progress.
God Bless your family.
Barbara F. Harrington
I am so glad to know you guys are doing well. I know the girls will be fine. I was three months early, though you wouldn't know it now! God bless you all we are praying for you!
--Krista
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