Hello again,

Claire weighs 2 pounds 13 ounces today!  The IV line has been discontinued and she only has the PICC line in place.  Her feedings were increased to 7cc today and so far so good.  She is doing very well and has become a boring patient again.  We had a nice talk with the Neonatologist and the feedings will be gradually increased with a close eye on the TPN/lipids which will decrease as she tolerates the gavage feedings.  The doctors are very happy with her progress as she approaches 35 weeks gestational age.  They have been great at including us in Claire's care plan and keeping us constantly updated as to her progress.   

Claire tolerated being held again today and of course I loved every minute of our time together.  The NICU had a pair of twins arrive as we were leaving today.  That brings the baby total to 10 at this time.  There are student nurses providing cares which reminded me of being a nursing student back in the day.  Two local colleges, Santa Rosa Junior College and Sonoma State University, have nursing programs which rotate students into the NICU. 

Alan took some photos of Claire today so we hope to add a few new pictures soon.  We remain thankful for Claire's amazing progress and continue to look forward to the day that she can come home.

Thank you for your support.  We appreciate all of the kind thoughts and prayers.

More soon,
xo
Denise & Alan