Friday, November 16, 2012

Preemie momma

Our NICU Miracle

November 17 is World Prematurity Awareness Day. In honor of that, I will be wearing purple and would like to tell a little bit about my preemie coming into the world

I had heard of the March of Dimes, but never paid attention. Honestly, I didn't pay attention, wasn't affected, and didn't know anyone affected by premature birth. That changed in July of 2010. 

My pregnancy was a surprise and we were thrilled to find out we were having a boy. Our due date was early September. I was going to be pregnant all summer, but knew he was worth it. 

In early July, I was experiencing pain, and was told that baby was moving and I was growing and as long as I didn't have more than 6 contractions an hour, I didn't need to do anything different. I was frustrated. I felt like nobody believed me. Yes, I was getting bigger and yes, I would be uncomfortable, but this didn't feel right. 

On a Monday, I went shopping for a friend who was having a baby and due around the same time as me. Again, I was experiencing discomfort, but I was hoping to make it to my doctor appointment later in the week and talk to him about it. I didn't want to gain a lot of weight, so I forced myself to take the stairs and do what I could to get a little exercise in. Pregnant women do it all of the time, and I thought that I could to. I was being a wimp.  That Monday, everything changed. I felt my world had stopped and have never felt more afraid at anytime in my life as I did that day. I noticed some bleeding.

I was told to go to the hospital. After awhile, I was admitted. I had pre-term labor. They stopped it for a couple of days, but after my water broke, there was no stopping my son anymore.

My son was born 8 weeks early and stayed in the NICU 26 days. He is a miracle. I was able to get steroid shots that strengthened his lungs and he never had to see a Respiratory Therapist. Yes, those shots HURT, but worth it. Heparin shots are also not fun, but I didn't have blood clots.

I don't think that we will ever know why I had pre-term labor, but I am so glad for The March of Dimes and their tireless efforts to raise awareness and save babies.


Thank you to The March of Dimes, NICU staff, and God,  my son is now 2 years old and so much fun. He is healthy and thriving. Yes, we do have speech therapy, but I don't think it is due to prematurity.

I also want to say to those whose babies did not come home with them, my heart hurts for you and I am sorry. Please believe your angel is in Good hands~~His hands.



Be blessed:)

5 comments:

  1. What a wonderful post. It was a scary time for everone, but God had and still has a plan for our big guy. Can't wait to see what it is. Gram and Pap wearing purple today for Declan also. Hugs and Kisses to our big guy and his Momma I know it was tough for you trying to keep Dec in as long as possible and you did a great job, it was worth it. Thanks for Blessing our lives with a wonderful grandosn.

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  2. Just wanted to pop over and pray a wee blessing over you and your sweet blog here. May you be deified and uplifted, embolden to write the words He lays on your heart. Found you through sweet ole Rachel Wojo :)

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    1. Thank you so much for stopping by! I am so honored!!!! You blessed me so much when I saw this and you prayed a blessing over my blog. I am fighting discouragement, so thank you! Be blessed:)

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  3. Stopping by from Rachel's too...
    But I've wanted to stop in here FOREVER !!!
    Heart aching as I read through the story of your little one (and your love for those who have babies in Heaven).
    So thankful your little guy is doing well...
    And thankful to finally find your spot.
    I appreciate all of the times and ways you've encouraged and supported my posts/writing...it has meant a lot to me!
    Love,
    K

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    1. Thank you for blessing me by stopping by! I am so glad that I could be an encouragement to you. I have friends who have adopted and been adopted and your articles hit home for them. Be blessed:)

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