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This is the story of our daughter Emma. Her story begins with a rare birth defect called Gastroschisis. This space is dedicated to the days before her birth and the many that are sure to follow.

Sleepy baby, Thursday, August 21st

Emma is resting comfortably. Dr. Rice has ordered a reduction in the silo which is fantastic news. That means her bowel has imporved to the point that they can put more of it inside her. She had a poop last night which is brilliant! The bowel appears to have lightened in color as well - also good news. I sat with her for a long time, cupping her head in my left hand while she held my index finger. Her new nurse Crystal is very nice. She said that the reduction was supposed to take place this morning, but Dr. Rice is in another surgery, so we're in a holding pattern.

Ava, mom, and I went to the Life & Science Center this morning. It's important to keep Ava in her routine, plus it's a lot of fun for all of us. We had a quick lunch and then they went down for a nap while I drove to the hospital. We had a strong storm last night. The clouds have stayed around this afternoon to offer a little relief from the oppressive heat. I put my head down beside Emma while she held my finger. I felt myself slipping off to sleep, so I decided to grab a cup of coffee before heading back up to be with her. Cell phone reception is poor in the hospital, so I haven't been able to tell mom how she is, which may be for the best since she's likely asleep.

3 comments:

kandi said...

such wonderful news! and a BM allready?! she's coming right along.

Anonymous said...

She is doing wonderfully and things sound as if they are moving along nicely. Welcome to the world of "poop". Its an entire conversation when talking about a gastro baby. Congrats on her awesome progress!!!!

Elaine

jess said...

you don't know me from anyone; i found this in a google alert for gastroschisis.
My emma is 14 months and was prenatally diagnosed with gastro (and unrelated co-occuring condition, hydrocephalus).
Congrats on a safe delivery, and good luck in your weeks ahead.
(my emma's gastro was a primary repair).
poop is a wonderful thing. I think emma still expects me to be proud of her poops. :)

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