30 weeks gestation

Today Austins age is adjusted at 30 weeks gestation!  He had a rough day today.  Due to anemia, he had another blood transfusion, which went well.  He needed his oxygen levels up because of it, and was also given a diatetic to help him urinate out some excess fluids. 

He wasnt very comfortable while I was there.  Very squirmy and desatting often.  The vent causes his lungs to get "yuck" in them, and its hard to breathe well through it, so he needs to be suctioned... he hates it.  His ventilator tube was a little too far in, so they needed to pull back 1/2cm, and he hated that too.  Poor guy.  His belly xrays look good, but his chest xray showed to be a little hazey... something to watch.  Possible signs of CLD (chronic lung disease). 

It was very hard for me to leave him today.  He was wide awake, but still just looked so uncomfortable.  So "over it".  It broke my heart to see him like that.  I wanted to hold him so badly today, but with all else going on, they suggested I wait another day.  He held my finger for a long time while I told him about our family.

 Drew asked me to take this dog tag he received at a basketball camp with a cross on one side and it says "with God all things are possible" on the other side to Austin this evening.  He is so thoughtful.  He told me Austin could have his guardian angel coin too, but a nice lady at a restaurant gave me one already.  Drew also told my husband tonight not to buy him anything for Christmas this year... that he'll just take what Santa gives to him.  He told us to spend our money on Austin this year, that he doesnt need anything.  He said he understands we have to worry about a house, our dog, Austin at the hospital, and him, and that its a lot and he understands.  :o)    We told him we have plenty of money for all of that and him too, and that he is so sweet, but he needs not to worry about those things, we'll do the worrying!  He is an angel, too!!! 

I also feel like I'm not giving Drew enough of my undivided attention lately.  I know my mind is always running wild... but I am having a rough night myself.  This isnt a very nice roller coaster... but I'll make it through it all... one day at a time... with a true smile on-- because I am very happy.  I love my life just the way it is... although when Austin is out of the NICU and home, it'll be easier!  I am so BLESSED with two amazing little boys that are strong in so many ways, and with a supportive and loving husband who knows how it feels.  I am full of positivity and strength... just need a hot shower to let the tears run once in a while.

Please pray for Austin and the maturity of his lungs.  He needs a little extra help in that area right now.  I pray for healing of his lungs from the Lord.  And continued strength on his end... and on mine.  Continued knowledge and patience for the doctors and nurses. 

Thank you to all of you for your support, prayers and for caring about Austin!  He melts my heart!  I hope he's touched yours.....   he's amazing.