Day 28: Three positive developments

Today is the four week anniversary of Loki's birth. The morning's gas analysis of his blood indicated that it was time for him to be removed so the respirator! We were surprised, considering that he is still recovering from his infections. But the staff felt that the negatives will be outweighed by the positives. So the breathing tube is out, he is on the SiPAP again, and he now has a little mask. We asked the staff to take a photo while he had nothing connected to his face. His cheeks were puffy and red from the removal of the tape that had held on the tube.

Then, I (Dad) held him for the first time. I had been apprehensive about doing so because I did not want to bump his breathing tube. But with that out, there was less concern. And the staff feel strongly that skin-to-skin contact with parents is beneficial for his development. So the nurse moved him to my chest, where he wiggled, relaxed, and dozed off. Obviously, it was quite an experience for me.

And while he lay there, I heard him make sounds for the first time. He has been unable to do so with the breathing tube. Even though the SiPAP is actually louder than the respirator, I heard him make some squeaks, gurgles, and moans.

Let's all keep our fingers crossed that he is able to stay on the SiPAP and not need the breathing tube again.