Roseanna and the babies are back (babies still inside), and doing well, despite a long trip over snowy roads.
The current estimate is that the girls may make it as far as 33 weeks before they come out, but probably will be looking at the world at closer to 30 weeks.
Every day for them to develop in utero is a blessing.
Thank you for prayers past, and continued prayers for their health and well being, and for all of us.
As we near Thanksgiving, this year we are especially thankful for a still healthy mom, two babies still growing, and for all of you. May God Bless you and yours!
Joe...I have been HORRIBLE with my ping list lately!! I am SO sorry...but very very happy that things are progressing nicely...
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving...
I am so glad to hear this!!! Have a Blessed Thanksgiving and I will keep on praying for all of you and especially for the innocent babies. Miracles pure and simple, every one of them.
Have a great Thanksgiving!
Prayers continue....
Very good news! Praise God! We will continue to pray for all and will include you all in our Thanksgiving prayers.
Prayers for the babies and their loving family.
What wonderful Thanksgiving news!! Praying that she will be able to carry the babies for as long as possible. If I don’t get a chance later I hope you all have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!
Hugs to the mama to give to the babies.
Thank you for keeping us informed. Prayers continue...
Who know's, your daughter might just have the next President of the United States inside her! We're all going to think positive ;-)
30 weeks is good, 33 weeks is GREAT!
The important thing about preemies is the ability to regulate breathing, sucking, and swallowing. It's something that we take for granted; our ability to hold our breath while we are swallowing, or to pause from eating to breathe. Preemies can have trouble with this, and may have to be fed through a tube in their stomach for a little while.
The earlier they are, the closer you have to monitor their stats. Progress will be measured in ounces and percentages. "They gained 2 ounces each." "Their blood/oxygen transfer rate is at 98%." The biggie, though, is to get insurance involved IMMEDIATELY and to have a catastrophic claims adjuster help your family. Also, get with the hospital about payment plans; the bills for preemies can be eye-popping. If possible, start talking to them now.
I'm sharing this with you because I want you to be prepared. In times like this, we often want to help but aren't sure what we can do. For men especially, who are used to "fixing things," this is one way you can help while everyone else is focused on the little ones.
Another thing about preemies: they are hyper-sensitive to touch and it can cause their heart-beats to become erratic. They also have trouble maintaining temp. They need a soothing, restful environment. You can certainly touch them, but avoid patting or stroking them, which can stimulate them. Place your warm hands on them like a blanket and hum to them (reminds them of being in the womb, which is a peaceful place).
Finally, mother's milk is like gold in a NICU. Encourage Roseanna to pump, if possible.
My daughter was born at 32 weeks in an emergency c-section under traumatic circumstances. That same little baby just celebrated her 9th birthday. You would never know she was a preemie. Straight A student, artistically inclined, Captain of her Cheer Squad, and perfectly formed.
I guess what I'm saying is that even if they are preemies, they can catch up. For some, it takes a little while longer; for others, it's just a small window. They may have some additional challenges, but there is so much out there now to help them. Ultimately, they have the most important thing in their lives for long-term success; the love of their family.
Looking forward to pictures of them when they are safely delivered, healthy and whole, and home in your arms.
Continued prayers.
Happy Thanksgiving
Prayers lifted for every day inside finishing up business ; }
God bless!