I know...I know...I need to update more! Things here at Dallas Presby are good with both Garrett and myself. Heath and I went down to the NICU last night to say good night and the night nurse allowed me to do one of the small things we all take for granted. I got to change Garrett's diaper!!! It was the most exciting, and scary, thing. His little legs and feet are so small and fragile, I was afraid I might pop a foot off if I lifted to hard. But, it was incredible!
This morning we learned that just like his father and PaPa, he doesn't like to be disturbed while he is sleeping. When they tried to roll him over he through a fit! They settled him down and things were back like they were. He did fight his way through his first blood transfusion. Of course, his mother is picturing a bag of blood and tons of wires (like it would look if she were getting a blood transfusion). However, it is a small syringe of blood and is placed in one of his umbilical ports, so nothing extra.
He is still sleeping and sunbathing under the bili-bed. I had an answered prayer when we got to talk to a social worker today. She explained somethings in "layman's terms" and that helped me calm down and gave me a peace that I know can only come from Him! Because of Garrett's low birth weight he qualifies for the SSI low birth program. This means that anything that our insurance doesn't pay for concerning Garrett will be covered under SSI...whether he is here 2 days, 2 weeks, or 2 months!!!
I am still battling with the fact that I "get" to go home today. I am still struggling with the fact that Garrett will be in this big hospital all by himself. However, I keep getting reminded to dwell on the positive (which are numerous) and God keeps reminding me through friends and family that He is in control and that He does all things for the good of those who love Him. It won't be easy, but I know that the nurses and doctors in the NICU are taking phenomenal care of him and that the love each of those little ones (which dad and I counted today and there are around 63 babies on the NICU board).
I am getting the feeling that I CAN do this and I know that can only come from the outpouring of prayers that you have been lifting up. I am simply AMAZED at how many people have emailed me or Kim with words of encouragement and letting us know that you are praying. That has been our saving grace and has touched my heart more than I can put into words!!!
9 comments:
We're really praying for you guys! Garrett is so tiny and precious! Congratulations!
Carla,
You can do it and you will. I am a mother of preemie twin boys and I know exactly how you feel about going home. I cried all the way home and it was ok. I couldn't wait to get back the next morning. We are friends of Kim and Michael's from Salt Lake. They will tell you, there will be good days and bad but no matter what God is always there with Garrett and you two. Trust Him and remember to take care of yourself too. You have to heal and be strong and healthy for Garrett as well.
We are praying for you as we understand the journey you have begun.
Praying for you guys. I have the USC girls in my small group praying too. I love reading your updates. Love you!!
Carla
You, Heath and Garrett are in our thoughts and prayers. I know the thought of leaving without your baby is unthinkable...I had to leave Braedo too! But, he is in good hands and your strength and faith will get you through this. I believe in the power of prayer and you defintely have lots of people praying for you. Take care of yourself and let us know if you need anything!
Carla,
I just wanted to tell you how much I understand what you are going through. My babies were born early, not as early as Garrett, but still early. I had a very hard time being d/c'd from the hospital. I cried a good part of the way home. I have posted Garrett on my blog as a baby who needs prayer. I am praying for you and your family.
Carla, I know how difficult it is to leave our precious babies behind at the hospital. But, like you said, he is in the best hands. It will seem like life is moving in slow motion, but it will go by quick and before you know it, you'll be celebrating his first birthday like we are with our babies. I know this is a very difficult, and emotionally trying time, but you WILL get through this and you CAN do it! Call me if you need to talk or need anything!
Carla and Heath - I'm just realizing that I don't know if Justin and I have officially offered our congratulations on Garrett's arrival! We've been praying for the 3 of you every day and have been checking your blog daily (and of course talking with Thomas and Sara!) We look forward to meeting your new little one and seeing you two very soon!
My heart goes out to you and your family. You don't know me, my kids are the Arnett's and we were at Kerr last year. My twins were preemies and I know what a challenge it can be to be where you are. Have comfort in knowing that you are in GOOD hands, more than one pair! And there are MANY people praying for you and your family. Have faith and peace in your heart. God will totally watch over you. Just continue to lean on him, He will carry you through.
My prayers are with you and your husband and precious Garrett.
Take Care,
Allie Arnett
Hi Carla and Heath. I was passed on your story and have been in touch with your sister Kim. Wow, seeing the pictures and reading about little Garrett brought back a lot of memories for me. I am glad to see he is doing pretty well. Tayden had to have a few transfusions too. It is a bumpy road, but these little guys are fighters. Definitely try to rest as much as you can. Pretty soon you will be able to do kangaroo care with him, which is so amazing. I will be praying for you all. E-mail me if you want. Or call. Your sister should have my info.
Amber
Tayden 4-28-04 24 weeks
Milo 6-16-07 39 weeks
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