Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Still moving in the right direction

Graham had a couple appointments last week down at Riley. Dr. West was very happy with the progress he's made. We saw a wound care nurse about how his omphalocele has been healing (or not). I was a little concerned that we really hadn't seen too much of a change in his wound since we left the hospital in March! We are now doing a new sort of dressing on it that gives it a little more air and it's made all the difference. Right now there is just a nickel-sized scab on the front of his little hump, so I feel relieved about that.
G also saw pulminology and he is off oxygen during the day. One less tube...kinda. He is still on oxygen at night, but I am totally fine with that, it can only help.
Today, we went to the pediatrician and Graham weighed in at a whopping 12 lbs. 8oz. Everyone couldn't be more pleased.
Our next goal is to come up with a plan to be able to get off the feeding tube. We will be starting therapy right here in our home with an organization called First Steps. They are sending an occupational therapist to help with Graham's muscle tone to help with things like pushing himself off the floor while on tummy time (made much more difficult since he doesn't get true tummy time). He'll also eventually need help with sitting up, crawling, etc. since his core muscles are not where a normal baby's are. We will also be working with a speech therapist who specializes in feedings and swallowing. Graham has decided he wants nothing to do with a bottle, which can be normal with nursing babies, but it is vital to getting him off the feeding tube so we can supplement feeds and make sure he continues to gain weight.
Developmentally, Graham is just about right on track. Every week, he is doing new things. He really focuses in on faces and toys. He is reaching out and grabbing objects and attempting to put them in his mouth. I think since he has grown and can see so much more of the world around him, he is that much happier. And as we've all discovered...when Graham's happy, we're happy.

3 comments:

  1. What great news! We're so happy for everyone! Graham (and both of you) continue to be in our prayers. These "baby steps" continue to be good news!
    Love to all!
    Edie & John

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  2. Hi, Law family! We have been checking your blog regularly and finally found the time to start one for our "Sadie Bug." So glad to hear that Graham is doing well. Still praying for you!

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