We returned to Duke on Friday and Foster's heart was still the same. Huge blessing. We are now at the 32 week mark. They did another growth scan to get an idea of her size. At the last one (27 weeks), she was two pounds, six ounces and in the 14th percentile. Today she was three and a half pounds, which puts her in the 3rd percentile. There is somewhat of a concern about her size. What has happened in the past when we see the fetal medicine folks is that they do the hydrops check to see if fluid is accumulating around the heart or anywhere in the body and then the doctor comes in to say everything looks the same. Today the ultrasound tech took us into a conference room to meet with the doctor, which was unnerving to say the least. These appointment days are simply exhausting. I come home in a zombie state because of the stress and adrenaline.
The doctor came in and told us that they need to start seeing me twice a week instead of just once. The purpose of the extra appointment is to watch her movements and activity. This is general procedure when the baby is below the tenth percentile in size. They feel like they need to watch things more closely. It doesn't look like anything else (genetic/chromosomal problem) is causing the small size. It's likely the heart issued possibly coupled with genetics. So, we are now adding Tuesdays to our weekly Duke regimen.
One of the reasons these appointments are so exhausting is because I don't really know if I'm going to be able to come back home. There is a (self-imposed) pressure to "maintain order" at home at all times in the event that happens. The doctor told me to take it easy. At the beginning, I thought 32 weeks would bring about a sigh of relief. But now there is a lot more wondering and worrying about how and when this is going to happen.
Please pray for her growth and her heart to continue to hold out like it has been. This week I am praying for renewed energy and the ability to relax and enjoy Joseph and Maggie in the coming weeks. Weariness is not our friend here and we are going to have to pray hard against it!
I am reminded:
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
-Matthew 11:29-30
We got a lot of growing to do and three weeks to get it done. Let's roll, FG!
Much love,
Drew & Anna
No comments:
Post a Comment