The infection we thought wasn't happening before is happening. The doctors determined it through some testing. We were told it was caught early so they're not concerned. We were also told infection in preemies is incredibly common because of their fragile immune systems, so pPROMing moms, when your baby is in the NICU and they start murmuring, "Infection" don't freak out too much. Luke has been put on antibiotics and after a couple of days, he's already showing signs of improvement. We were also told that often times with an infection, there is a valve by the heart called a PDA valve that has a tendency to open. Luke's is slightly open right now, which again, is incredibly common. There is medication that can be given to the baby to fix it.
The medical staff is still very impressed with the progress Luke is making. His lungs are expanding properly. All his levels are going in the right direction. They were ready to take him off the IV and feed him solely through formula, but with the antibiotics, his tummy's a little off, so they're going to extend that for a couple of days.
The news I'm exciting about is they're starting to ween him off the ventilator. It's going to be slow, but once that happens, we can hold him! Very excited for that.
We've also learned Luke has a bit of a temper on him. If he's put in a position he doesn't approve of, you know it! Because of the ventilator, he can't cry, but he's trying to the best he can. He gets a crabby, old man look and his heartbeat elevates. Chris was feeling pretty good last night because Luke was having a fit and he was able to calm him down. All he did was give Luke his finger to hang on to and that's all Luke needed. Wish I could have been there for that.
I will be very happy when I can start driving again. Since Luke has been born, I can't help feeling like the outsider. Chris was spending up to eight hours a day with our little guy. He was the first to see the baby's eyes open. He's been helping with feedings and changings. The fact he was able to calm Luke down last night shows there's got some sort of bond going on. I'm very happy for Chris. He's a great father. I just want to share in some of that too. I know...patience, the time will come.
My life is getting back on track, though man oh man, I am sooooo out of shape! Yesterday, I straightened up the living room and the bathroom. Did not push myself too much. I'm trying to be good! But still, I was shaking and sweating a lot! (Pretty lady.) By the end of the day, I was absolutely exhausted. Seemed like my legs were replaced by sandbags! Before any of this happened, I was walking 3.5 miles 4-5 times a week. I chuckle at the thought of even approaching the treadmill at this point. Yes, yes, I know. That patience thing again!
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