Week One!

On Monday Hugo reached his first week of life! He has been stable and they have increased his feedings which are given through the tube up his nose. Before every feeding they draw residuals out of his stomach to make sure he's digested his last feeding. If the residuals are low then he's clear to have another meal. Grandma Bush was able to take the mask off today and help give Hugo his pacifier when he was a little fussy.

The big news for the week of life is that Hugo got his brain ultrasound. We had to wait until Tuesday morning for the reading which showed a small blood spot on his right side. The doctor labeled it a Grade 1 (1-4 scale, 4 is worst) spot. They will monitor it but they don't anticipate it will be a problem. At times it's hard to hear and process these things about Hugo. I, of course, wanted the scan to come back completely clear with no issues. And in listening to the doctor my mind gets clogged on the words "blood spot". I hear the rest of what the doctor says but everything can't get past the clog. I appreciate that they think it's not going to be a problem but it sounds like a big deal!

The best news is that, since the spot is only Grade 1, Nolan and I can start to hold him! We were so eager but also so terrified to have some skin to skin time. He's so small still but the nurses keep reassuring us that he's more resilient than we think. We do have a little fighter with a mind of his own. Last week Nolan wore a button up shirt every day in anticipation of Kangaroo Care. He finally got his wish! Hugo was alert and curious for daddy and tired and sleepy for mommy. 

Nolan and I have been touched and overwhelmed by the love and support that have been extended to us this past week. It is truly meaningful to hear and read all of your stories and words of love and encouragement. Please know that if we haven't been able to respond to you yet that your words have been received and greatly appreciated.