The Great Unknown

Today was much of the same for Brady. He still is on minimal breathing assistance. We've come to believe that some nurses are bigger risk takers than others (and this often comes with experience). Brady's core nurse, Kathy, was the first to remove his oxygen tubes for extended periods of time. She was much more comfortable with his rates fluctuating. Even though Brady's levels have been very similar to when Kathy was here, the nurses over the past few days have felt more comfortable leaving the tube in. We're completely fine with whatever they decide...and we're trying hard not to consider it a setback when he needs that extra assistance. We keep hearing that the meconium in his lungs from birth could be preventing him from progressing as quickly as we would hope with his breathing.

Ali nursed him today for his 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. feedings. The doctor once again told us that his best feeding was by bottle at 2:00 a.m. He is still learning how to coordinate his breathing and eating, and this should become easier once he's breathing completely on his own.

Ali was there when the OT visited today. She performed many of the same exercises from yesterday and also spent time checking reflexes all over his body.

We had a conversation with one of the doctors and the question we always ask is whether or not Brady's progress is "normal". We keep hearing that they're very pleased with his healing, but there is no way to predict any long-term problems. The most frustrating part for us as parents is the waiting and the unknown. And we're hoping that the great unknown won't weigh heavy on our hearts over time.

I had a brief conversation with the social worker for the NICU. She's the one who helps coordinate all assistance for Brady and our family. She said that Brady is a "unique patient". Almost all other babies who have gone through similar trauma during birth needed much more assistance and therapy at this point.

We're holding out hope that our miracle baby will continue being a "unique patient". Once again, thanks for all of your messages and prayers for healing and strength.

With love,

Tyler, Ali, Ava, Casey and Brady