breathing freely on her own, and has started breastfeeding.Her 53cc feedings are still primarily delivered through a tube into her stomach - pumped over 2.5 hours with a 1.5 hour break in between feedings. Docs are gradually compressing the time to allow her stomach to get used to processing the full amount at one time. She will need to be able to do this before we can finally take her home.
Breastfeeding is going well. We were initially concerned because some premies develop oral aversion and reject breastfeeding after not having any feedings by mouth for so long. But little Ella is a natural - she latched on at her first try. Mom makes about three or four of her feeding times every day, and the other times the nurses feed her a small amount (10ccs) in a bottle.
Even though feeding is going well, she is not gaining much weight. Docs have added in a suplement powder to beef up her calorie intake.
Her breathing is better, and over the last week she was reduced on her oxygen flow to the nose tube. Finally yesterday she had even the nose tube removed, and is now breathing on her own.
Lastly, we await her eye exam tomorrow. Recall that her last week's exam showed initial signs of retinal scarring (ROP). This should clear up by itself, but if not Docs will need to prescribe laser surgery. This may be the last thing to keep us in Rochester - we may be transferred HOME to Elmira for Ella's final weeks of recovery!
Love - Bill Denise Ella T
denise i am so so happy about this awesome news. give me a call when you get a chance. miss you
ReplyDeleteHappy day yesterday!!!!! I couldn't be happier for you all. Ella sure is growing and is SO beautiful!!!!
ReplyDeleteGREAT news and you continue to be in our prayers!!!
love,
Sue