Baby Holden Update

Holden was put back on the high flow nasal cannula this morning. As we mentioned, this is much less invasive and is one step closer to him breathing completely on his own (without any support)! It is also so much easier now to see his adorable face and eyes!

Mommy was able to rock Holden this morning during his feeding and we also had a chance to work with him on introducing him to the breast/bottle. He quickly figured out that it is more work than the feeding tube...but he'll get there!! I got to change a poopy diaper and Holden spit up all over me - and I was thrilled! (Yes, I know that this will quickly change when we get him home!! But for now we are appreciating all of the little things that we would probably take for granted if the situation were different.)

Now that Holden is down to just a couple of wires, the nurses have given us the green light to bring in clothes, hats and socks for our little Munchkin. You know that was all Mommy needed to hear to make sure he is the best dressed little guy in the NICU!!

I know we keep saying this, but thank you again for ALL of the thoughts and prayers. The three of us feel the love and support. We are truly blessed!

Baby Holden Update

Holden had a good day. The doctors were pleased with his progress and plan to move him back to the high flow nasal cannula tomorrow. The HFNC is less invasive and should now be more comfortable for him.

Mommy and Daddy were able to visit several times today. Holden was awake and alert. It was the first time Reece and I (together) saw him open his eyes. Although we've been a family since before he was born, it was our first opportunity to really spend time together. It was an afternoon we'll remember forever.

Daddy changed Holden's diaper and did a great job! It can be tricky to avoid some of the wires!! Our little guy has quite a grip on him. He reached out and held my finger. I am not sure who was comforting whom at that moment! I could have sat there all day looking into his beautiful blue eyes!

Baby Holden Update

Today Holden is doing well, however, we did have a setback yesterday as doctors determined Holden needed to be put on a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine to help expand his lungs when he breathes. Although the machine is more intrusive than the nasal canula that he was on, Holden seems comfortable. Also yesterday, Holden was fussy and spit up some of his milk.

This morning's x-rays showed improvement in his lung expansion due to the CPAP. Holden seems much more comfortable today and is holding down his food.

Grandma Rosanne and Grandpa Dave were able to visit Holden yesterday. Mommy and Daddy are here with our little guy each day! We pray that Holden continues to get better and we appreciate all the support and encouragement from our friends and family.

Baby Holden Update

No major updates today. Holden continues to do well and grows stronger daily. He is slowly starting to put on weight. As long as Holden's system tolerates the milk, they will continue to increase his intake/calories daily.

Daddy was able to rock Holden during his afternoon feeding. Holden looked comfortable in Daddy's arms and quickly fell asleep!

Baby Holden Update

Our little fighter continues to do well with small "baby steps" of improvements each day. Holden had an open PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) which basically is a value that allows blood to flow through the lungs. This usually closes when a baby is born. Holden's had remained opened adding to his complications. Doctors said that it looks like Holden's PDA is beginning to close on its own. This is great news, as if it would have remained opened, it would have required surgery!

Holden seemed full of energy when Mommy first arrived at the NICU this morning. He opened his eyes for several minutes today. It felt like he was finally placing my face with the voice he's heard for the past 9 months! I told him again about the great family and friends who are praying for him and can't wait to meet him.

I was able sit in a rocking chair and hold him for several hours today. It reminded me that we need to celebrate the little things in life - for that is truly what matters. There was no where I would have rather been and I will remember those precious moments forever.

Grandma Rosanne and Mommy visited tonight. Holden was very content with his dinner (milk) and was settling in for a good night's sleep.