Braden continues to do well. He is packing on the weight flirting with the 4 pound milestone. He is also regulating his temperature. Weight gain and temperature regulation both lead to him coming out of the isolette soon.
Braden also had a eye exam today to determine the progress of his retinal development. The exam is a little uncomfortable for babies and so when we went back later to hold our little man he slept the entire diaper change and kangaroo hold, an abnormal thing for him on a typical day but he was obviously exhausted from everything going on.
This was his second eye exam and he is showing some indications of abnormality, however, they are mild and somewhat expected given how sick he was the first few weeks. He will be tested again next week in order to determine if the development is trending in the right direction. So we hold our breath a bit, but again these are things you prepare yourself to address with a preemie.
We enjoy every moment with him including times like these where I use a mirror to see him as he lays on my chest. Overwhelming to be with such an amazing little man.... and a picture I will treasure for my entire life.
wow...that is so stinkin' sweet. it looks like he's looking up in hopes to see your sweet face, too!
ReplyDeleteI think of you all daily and will be holding you close as you wait to hear about Braden's eye development. I LOVE this picture : )
ReplyDeleteI love reading your updates and celebrating in the the big milestones you all are hitting. Thanks for continuing to share them! The picture of you two looking at each other in the mirror is priceless.
ReplyDeleteThanks for continuing to share. It's amazing to see his progress. Looking back at his first pictures reminds me just how far he's come... and YOU TOO!! You look great, mommie. I know you're always tired, but that's par for the course. You both look HEALTHY! Praise God. You've come so far. Can't wait for Braden's uncles to get to see him and hold him. Maybe soon - given his progress. Love to all of you. Nana
ReplyDeleteThis one made me cry--it was that mirror picture! Loving and missing you guys.
ReplyDeleteJulia you are an incredible mom and write so beautifully. Thank you so many of us don't live close by yet your blog has really kept us all in the "loop." My heart glows when I see pictures of you or Brian holding Braden. Braden is definitely a fighter, between his determination and all the prayers coming his way I know his eyes will heal nicely with time. Luv, Momma/Gammy
ReplyDeleteHe has an adorable face Julia! Good job mama!
ReplyDeleteJulia, I believe we met once, but I do know your Mom (even if it has been years). I also had preemies. My girls were born at 30weeks & I know many who have had preemies much earlier than your angel. I am so glad to hear he is doing so well & that you also are recovering. I send you lots of prayers & healing energy. If you ever want someone to talk to OR to see life fast-forwareded a few with preemies, come on over to my blog! urechquads.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteblessings,
Misty
MOM to RIver, Rayne, JuJu & Skye
misty@urechquads.com
ps Tell your Mom hi! I know she was one of the prayer warriors when mine were so small!!!!
Huli, I go back and look at the mirror picture. It is so beautiful. I can see it being one that you and he hang on to for life. It's absolutely beautiful. We are so happy that things are going well for the whole Betts-y family. <3
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