A week has already gone by since we arrived home with Cara. While it is such a blessing to be at this stage, it is not without its own trials. God supplies us with enough encouraging times to get through the tough ones, but it hasn’t been an easy week. Cara battles reflux, vomiting and gas on a daily basis. While some of this may be normal for a new baby, it is difficult seeing her struggle through another stage in her recovery. We took her home with her NG tube still in and are working with NG feeds every 3 hours, and the occasional bottle as well. The goal is to improve her bottle intake until she takes all of her feed through the bottle. This is a slow process because she has to have the milk thickened in order for her to swallow properly. In between and during her feeds, if she’s awake, most of our time can be spent trying to calm her down. Julianne’s day consists of feeding Cara, pumping, calming Cara, sterilizing containers, giving meds, going to appointments and trying to catch some sleep! Alex is at work, but often comes home to lend a hand or make it to appointments as well. We are so thankful for the help of our mom’s and to Michelle for all they’ve done for us! Please continue to pray for us, because at times we can become very discouraged. Ultimately we realize that we can only bring all of this to God and leave it in His hands.
Another note: after seeing the cardiologist yesterday we are told that her heart repair looks good, although there are a few areas that have leaks still, and time will tell if they heal on their own or if they will be a continued concern.
“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Saviour, who daily bears our burdens.”
Psalm 68:19
Thanks for the update!! We've been following it regularly and praying for your sweet girl- she is adorable! Julianne I'm praying for you...it's tiring enough for me as a new mom- can't imagine doing all the extras. We'll be praying things calm down quickly. Can't wait to meet Cara:)
ReplyDeletePraying for strength and peace as you travel this road. May the God of all comfort sustain you and may He bring healing to Cara.
ReplyDeleteWe are praying that God gives you strength and holds you close during the difficult hours and days, and that they come less and less often. We also pray that Cara's digestive system will work properly so that she can be more comfortable. It is hard to see them in pain!
ReplyDeleteAnd Alex, if you are manning this blog, could you email me your phone number? I'd like to bring a meal over next week and visit with Julianne and Cara.
(rachelsjaarda@gmail.com)
Take care!