I apologize for not updating sooner. Up until yesterday status remained the same as last week, in the hospital, on mild bed rest just waiting as long as we can until Dougie makes his début. Monday, 12/20, we had a meeting with the St. Joseph/CHOC medical team(s) who will be involved in my c-section/Doug’s delivery as well his transportation to CHOC and the team that will care for him there. The meeting was overwhelming to say the least, most of Dougie’s fans were able to make the meeting and support Brad, Dougie & I and we cannot thank them enough for coming out. There were about 8 to 12 doctors & nurses in white coats, each of them had a role in the meeting, and each of them will have a role in Dougie's journey into the world. It was amazing to me to see how they all worked with each other, and how every single person in that room truly cares for my son, my husband & I.
We discussed the ‘delivery day game plan’, and came to the conclusion that the best thing we can do for Douglas is hold off as long as possible, at the very least December 30th (Brads Birthday!) will be the day of delivery if we cannot hold off longer. Last week Dougie was measuring around 4lbs 9oz, and we would like him to get bigger (I want him as chubby as possible). They will measure again next week and hope he has gained a few pounds.
Once we got back to the room, Brad and I started a game of Monopoly to help pass the time. I realized then that I hate Monopoly and will probably not play another game in my life (I’m sure you can guess who was the winner...and who was the sore loser).
On Tuesday December 21, after reviewing results of ultrasound & other tests taken that morning, Dr. Anzaldo paid us a visit. He said Douglas continues to thrive, even without as much fluids as he is used to, and he seems to be looking good. However, my cervix is starting to get smaller in preparation for labor. When last checked (the day we were admitted to St. Joseph's on 12/13)) my cervix measured at a 3 - yesterday it was 1.7 and continues to get smaller, hastening the beginning of labor. So the doctor believes Douglas may come sooner than we had hoped. Dr. Anzaldo said to try and slow down the process, stay off my feet and off my cervix more than I already am. Which basically means - do not get up for anything other than the restroom and when I am in bed I need to be pretty much horizontal.
Laying in bed all day everyday takes its toll, but luckily we have a great support system and I have had many visitors bringing goodies every time they visit and get deliveries often! It looks like a lot like Christmas in my room and that helps tremendously! All the nurses say they love coming into my room because it is so warm and cheerful, I have had a few cafeteria workers come up to check it out because they heard its so pretty! So thank you everyone for the beautiful decorations, flowers, cards, pictures & goodies - it truly has made a difference!
Time is creeping by, I can’t believe it has only been 10 days. But I am not complaining (much). I am prepared to stay 10, 20 or 30 more if Dougie will let me, everyday I am in here is another day he gets to grow stronger for life outside of Mommy. I am trying to prepare him as much as myself for the day they take him from my body, and I think that is the hardest part of this whole journey. Knowing one day, in the near future, I won’t be the only thing that is protecting him and keeping him safe. This must be every mother's worse fear - not being able to protect your baby from anything and everything that may cause them harm or pain. I am coming to the realization that I am a mother now, and this fear, doubt and overwhelming curiosity of the unknown just comes with the territory.
Thank you all again and again, for the prayers and support. Let’s pray for a little more time for both Douglas and myself, and pray for, when the time comes, he will overcome all of his obstacles & challenges.
We love you all very much,
Mere and Brad
God bless our little man...
and God bless the doctors, nurses & wonderful staff of St. Joseph's Hospital and Children's Hospital of Orange County
Thank you for the update. We are all pulling for you guys even though it sounds like you are in great hands. How wonderful that your room is decorated like Christmas, that has to help make the stay a bit more tolerable. This Christmas will be a little unconventional for you guys but if all goes well...just think of all those wonderful Christmas's to come (when your not in the hospital).
ReplyDeleteOn the bright side, at least you are not getting soaked by this non-stop rain we have been having. Its a perfect time to be inside and stay inside...you havent missed anything. :)
Good luck and best wishes! Merry Christmas Collins Family!