Tuesday, June 30, 2009

25 Weeks - 15 To Go !

Sophia continues to remain stable - for the 5th week in a row! This was such a relief considering such a turbulent week last week! We saw another new High Risk OB at Abbott today and really liked her. She did a quick scan to look for hydrops and said there was NO fluid anywhere. My heart was beating out of my chest as she was scanning. It was definitely the most anxious I have been yet but was thrilled to hear that she is stable and that there are still no signs of hydrops.

Dan and I had the opportunity to tour Children's Hospital with the Care Coordinator between Abbott and Children's. It is truly an outstanding facility, not only because of the medical care they provide for children but also because of the amenities they provide families to make things more comfortable and accommodating. They have a cute little play area for siblings and a darling little area where they put on plays for kids/siblings. We could already see Jack loving his visits to see his sister.

Jean also showed us around both the NICU (Neonatal ICU) and the PICU (Pediatric ICU) and mentioned that all "heart kids" go to the PICU after surgery. She said some parents choose not to go see the PICU as it is quite emotional and can cause more anxiety. What an understatement. After learning from Jean what the day will be like when I deliver Sophia, the events that will follow her birth, and after visiting the PICU, we were very overwhelmed and to be honest, very frightened. This was the first time that we were truly able comprehend how serious Sophia's heart condition is and what the first few moments and days will bring for Sophia and our family.

Despite the overwhelming feelings we have today, we can't help but also feel more hopeful as each week continues to bring small victories for Sophia. I turn 32 tomorrow and hearing today that she is stable for another week is the best birthday gift I could ever ask for !

Speaking of gifts....Jack has been very sweet and interested in my "tummy" lately. He is definitely loving his little sister more and more everyday. His new favorite thing to do when reading books before bed is to sing her songs. It's very sweet. The "ABC's" and "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" are at the top of his list :)

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Alli & Dan~

We are so happy to read your news! We hope Alli is having a fantastic birthday!

Kim & Cory

Anonymous said...

Alli so glad to hear that things are going better for you. Happy Belated Birthday- send my love to Dan, Jack and the rest of the clan. Happy 4th!
Love,
Steph

Anonymous said...

Hi Alli and family,
Just returned from vacation and thought of you often while gone. Love the pictures of you and your family at the heart walk. Sophia has a wonderful support system and many people who are praying for her.
Will continue to keep you in my prayers--have good feelings about Sophia and the challenges ahead because of the her parents strengths and doing all they can for the best for Sophia.
Jean