We met the neonatologist last night. He stated the boys were doing pretty good...not great, not poorly. He said from a breathing perspective they are progressing nicely. James was doing so well he said they were going to try taking him off the ventilator later last night. John David was not as far along as James but still were going to try removing the ventilator today. We haven't heard how that went yet.
From a screening perspective, both boys had an ECG with the cardiologist. A problem was noted with both, with John David being more pronounced. The way the doctor explained it the contractility of the heart was diminished in both boys, meaning the heart wasn't pumping as well as it should be. I asked if that was normal in preterm babies and if this was a minor or major problem...He says it is not normal, but it is not something to be worried over at the moment. It was treatable with medication (dopamine and caffeine) which was started while we were there. An additional ECG will be performed today or Monday.
Renal ultrasound was done on James because of his 2 vessel cord. Both have had normal urine outputs which was a good sign. Brain ultrasounds were done as well. Results haven't come in yet so we're waiting for them.
They are also on preventative antibiotics to prevent infection. Both received central lines yesterday to receive medications and nourishment through. They get lipids, electrolytes, and minerals through their ports and I believe they are swabbing Dana's breast milk in their mouths.
We wish the communication was faster.....but realize the NICU is a busy, dynamic place and would rather time be spent caring for our babies than explaining to us what they are doing and why they are doing it. Please pray for patience and understanding on my part with this.
The girls saw the babies yesterday for the first time and were beside themselves. They fell in love in an instant with them. Ellie said, "He's a tiny baby!"
When we hear from the doctors and nurses this morning, we will update then. Hope to add more pictures if I can figure out how. Thank you all for your unwavering support. We love you all!
Our blog is the story of two precious, miracle baby boys, James Daniel and John David. Check out "Our Story" link for the full details of our story!
John David Pate-3years old
James Daniel Pate-3years old
3 comments:
Rob, thank you for updating so quickly so we'll know specifically what to pray for. Thank you for your willingness to share.
We are continuing to pray here in Dadeville. They are just beautiful! Of course, they have beautiful parents and beautiful sisters, so they have to be beautiful themselves.
Love,
John and Trina
We are continuing to pray for all your family.
The boys are beautiful and are true miracles from God! They sound like fighters already.
Let us know what else we can do to help your family during this stressful time.
Love,
Mike and Christy
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