Touchdown Gus!

Great news today for Gus. His cranial ultrasound came back perfect - no signs of bleeding in the brain or vascular damage! This is a common source of problems in preterm babies and can be a sign of possible future learning difficulties. This is a great step forward and reason to celebrate and give thanks to God!

Gus had good reason to be excited today and flashed us the "touchdown" sign to show how nice it felt to have good news. He was really active today and recognized us as soon as we came in. He has been taken off of dopamine and he is on a very tiny amount of morphine, hopefully his recovery period after surgery is coming to a close... The goggles show that Gus is still under the ultraviolet lights that help keep jaundice at bay and his bilirubin level lower. The goggles help protect his eyes from the intense light, but his exposed parts are getting a nice tan.

Grandma Nancy was in to see Gus tonight too. She came last week all the way from West Fargo, ND. She likes to cuddle his head and feet and talk to him. As with everyone who loves him, Gus settles down and really enjoys the attention when she is with him.

Gus was up to 2 lb 2.75 oz today - adding a half an ounce over yesterday. There is the possibility that much of his weight gain is fluids - but signs show that he is gaining in other ways.

The "clear" brain scan result is a great relief. Thank you all for the prayers, good Karma and well wishes for Gus to be guided safely through these tenuous first few weeks. Many peoples' faith, and the wide variety of faith expressions, are equally appreciated!

Held in the Creator's care,
Gregg, Jill and Gus