Mr. Blue Eyes - Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Today was a BIG day! The morning started with rounds where the neonatologist team decided that Parker could come off of the EEG (a cap full of wires taped to his scalp that monitors his brain). They also decided Parker could begin breastfeeding since he took a bottle last night and did really well. He had his eyes open while the team was there and moved around like crazy. Once they left, I breast fed Parker and he took to it like a champ! Which was a big deal because they were worried about his sucking reflex. He then became 'milk drunk' as our friend Gloria likes to say (the lactation specialist at Lewis Gale Medical Center). It didn't take Parker and I long to create that bond that we've both desperately needed.

After lunch the occupational and physical therapists evaluated Parker. His report was mostly good- except for some slight tremors that have occurred. Although these tremors could be related to certain medications, over stimulation, or results from his traumatic event- they won't really know until they have the results of the MRI. But the therapist reminded me of all the positive behaviors that Parker exhibited and no matter what the MRI shows, they will treat him with early intervention regardless. Jeff and I were both reassured by this since we'll have home visits to keep Parker developmentally on track. We joked with each other that we wish we had the same for Spencer- who knows if he's on the right track developmentally- and Jeff said, "Spencer's on his own track". :)

The day ended with Parker being moved to a 'step down unit' inside of the NICU. This is a less critical unit where there is more space and less noise. Jeff and I spent the evening rocking Parker while he slept. The hardest part was leaving him. Every minute I want to rush over there to hold and love him. But Jeff reminded me that I'm still recovering and haven't stopped since the day after I gave birth. I also know that I need to save my energy since I will have my hands full with lil man Spencer and sweet Parker. But mark my words- you won't hear me complain! All I've prayed for is to be able to raise my two precious boys- and my prayers have been answered.

We continue to ask for your prayers for tomorrow- Parker will have his MRI. We ask the Lord to bless his brain and continued success in his improvement. Thanks again for all your love and support.

PS- Thanks to the friends of my sister who made the prayer blanket for Parker. I used the blanket to snuggle with him this afternoon. I know it will bring great blessings.