Days 44, 45 and 46

Hi folks!

First of all, our apologies for not getting the pictures up yet. It's been another one of those weeks. Thanks again for all the comments, prayers and well wishes. We really appreciate them. For those of you that don't know, we are planning on saving/printing this blog for Zachary to read when he is older, that's why we solicit comments, plus it makes us feel good to know that you are concerned and curious about our sweet little boy.

As you know, Zachary is back on the CPAP. The pressure of the CPAP is 10 and his oxygen saturation fluctuates between 25% and 40% which isn't too bad. The oxygen in room air is 21%. They may try the nasal cannula again this weekend or they may give him some more time to recover, right now it's too soon to know.

Today, Zachary was seen by the pediatric opthamologist. The doctor determined that Zachary has developed a grade 1 (of 4) retinopathy of prematurity ("ROP") in his right eye. The doctor says this is very common in preemies and expects it to get to a grade 2 and then resolve itself without the need for treatment. He will be back to check Zachary again in two weeks.

Also, today Zachary was put on an additional diuretic. He seems to have problems with rapid, shallow breathing at times and his team of doctors, NPs and RNs plus the respiratory therapists think that he will do better with two medications to eliminate excess fluid.

Today Zachary had his first temper tanturm. His heart rate accelearted, his face got all red and he kept trying to get the CPAP out of his nose. Thankfully Mommy and Daddy were there to rub his back, sing to him and were able to calm him down. He felt even better a half hour later when Daddy held him.

Today we found a pediatrican for Zachary. Drs. Gant and Gray will be coming to see him next week in the NICU to meet him and to talk to his neonatoliogists. One or the other (or both) will be taking care of Zachary once he leaves the hospital. We are very happy with both of them and think they will help us take excellent care of our little boy.

Otherwise, things are going well. Zachary is enjoying his daily holdings, last week he was held by Granny Marie, then last weekend Grandma Marla held him and Mommy and Daddy hold him lots. Right now Mommy and Daddy are suffering through allergies, especially Mommy. We're hoping that the pollen goes away soon so she can breathe easier.

As always, love to all!