Pregnancy Update Week 23 #1

Thank you, thank you, thank you everyone for the support, kind words, prayers, and positive stories!  Yes, it helps to hear the good scenarios!  

Basics:  Today (Friday the 2nd) is 23 weeks & 2 days.  Still no labor and still no infection - yeah!  I'm still pregnant!

Things here are Duke are drastically different to what we experienced at Womack.  Yippee!  :)  In Womack's defense, I've had good experiences there.  My entire RNY surgery and follow-up has truly been impressive and I had no qualms about the majority of care I received there.  They just totally aren't equipped for this situation, so didn't really have the comfort to treat me aggressively.  They knew that from the start, it just took a little extra prodding from us to get them to move us sooner rather than later.   As for the Duke experience...they were super busy when we got here, so it took a few hours before we got to see any Dr's, but once we did...wow.  They asked about everything, they went over everything with us, they took the time.  I think I've seen about 7 different OB Dr's, but they are all talking to each other and each one that comes in here knows what I discussed with the last ones, so that's cool.  They're obviously well organized and it seems like a 'many heads are better than one' scenario.  I've heard from a lot of you how fabulous Duke is and now I know why.  This is a Level IV NICU involved in so many ground-breaking treatments.  Some that we may want to get involved in, some not.  A baby Dr from the NICU spent an hour with us last night, going over what to expect, what we can know now, and what we won't know until baby is born.  He answered a kazillion questions.  He has a great sense of pride in this facility which of course just adds to our comfort level.  That said, they're being honest with us.  This is still very early and although we'll do everything possible to have a positive outcome, it may be outside of all of our control.  I believe things happen for a reason (although sometimes I never figure out what the reason is.)  I'm OK with that.  I just have to know that Ryan, I and the Dr's have done everything we can that is in the best interest of baby.

As for what's happening medically, I will be in the hospital on bedrest until delivery, of course we're not sure when that may be.  I am getting IV antibiotics for now as a preventive against infection.  I got a steroid injection yesterday and will get another one today to help baby's development.  Other than that, I'm sitting or laying, eating what I need to and drinking as much as I can.

I hope you can forgive me for not responding to each of you.  Please know I appreciate each post.   It's been a busy few days.  My family has been visiting and will be heading back home to Wisconsin today.  My dad has decided to stay for a few weeks to help us out, so that'll be great.  I'm anticipating this weekend to still be busy, but people will go back to work after the holidays and as things slow down around here, I'll be getting more active online, I was just trying to spend time with them while they were here.

Overall, I'm feeling as positive as I can about how things are going.  I'm sure I'll have ups and downs, but so far yesterday and today are ups and I'm enjoying it.  I'm really just trying to focus on one day at a time, because that's where we're at.  Each day makes a difference! 

Deb - thank you for the update.  Certainly we all know that you can't be on your computer all the time, but we do want to hear when you can.

So glad that you are pleased with the docs at Duke.  Having confidence in your team makes a much better outcome and the positive vibes are jumping out of your post.  Be a good girl and do what they tell you.  One day at a time.

Sending prayers in your name for a healthy baby.

Shelia

Sweetie - it's good to know that you've settled in at Duke. Maintain the outlook that we see here and I'm sure things will continue to go along well. (I know that's easier said than done) We're here for you. You, Ryan, the baby and the medical staff are all in my thoughts and prayers.

-Iris

Deb and Ryan,

Thanks so much for the update. I'm so very glad to hear that you are getting the expert level of care that you need for you and the baby.

I was serious about our being able to come help ... pass the time, drop things off, pick things up... whatever. I know that you are surrounded by family now, but as that wanes, we'll be glad to help pick up the slack.

Our love to you all,

Barb and Ben

Hey Deb.. You have all been in my prayers and thoughts for sure!  I am glad to hear that your post has such a positive tone and that your impressions of Duke are top notch.  I will continue to pray that God will protect you and the little one.  

Please let me know if you need anything! 

Great to hear from you Deb and thank God for the miracle of modern medicine and first rate health care facilities.  I'll continue to keep you guys in my prayers!  Hang in there!  Alice

Hey Deb:

So glad things are going well.   I am a true believer in everything happens for a reason even though we sometimes don't know why.   I am also a believer of miracles.   My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you, Ryan and the baby.   If you need anything at all, you have your OH family here for you.

Love,

Pam

Deb - I had no idea all of this was going on (I haven't been at group last month and was so busy). ALL MY PRAYERS to you and your hubby! I will be praying for your little one every night! Kit

Deb,

Stay focused on whats at hand.  A friend of mine 20+ years ago was in your same situation and now both of her girls have graduated college and have a wonderful life.  Miracles do happen and you will be in my prayers.   Sending angels your way.

Deborah

Thanks for the update Deb. You're in the best of hands it sounds like and of course, in God's hands and it don't get any better than that.
I believe the same as you, that things happen for a reason. Rarely do we find out the reasons. We just have to keep the faith and accept what comes.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers daily and will watch for the next update.

BIG HUG
Pam