Take Home Weight

Gus was doing well today - only a few minor apnea episodes. Dr. MB analyzed the results from the test from yesterday and it indicates that Gus' "central apnea", due to immaturity, and the "obstructive apnea", caused by the trachea closing - are closely related. It seems that after Gus recovers from a central apnea event he relaxes and rests which often causes an obstructive apnea. The resolution is twofold - continue to give Gus lots of caffeine and keep pressure applied to his cannula. He will be weaned back on both treatments until they go away. Gus can go home still receiving caffeine but he will need to be down to at least 1/2 liter per minute on the cannula before he can be released.

Here is another picture from yesterday - Gus was similarly sleepy today just resting comfortably with both Jill and I. He is back to getting his bottle twice a day too. He had one with nurse penny earlier in the day and then had 1/3 bottle with Jill before he fell asleep and needed to finish with the gravity feed. This was a great experience for Jill because prior to this the nurses and occupational therapists had done his bottle feeds to make sure he was exercising and breathing.

Gus is now up to 4 lb 8.5 oz today! That is the NICU's minimum "going home weight" - he just has to get his breathing and eating figured out first. We still look forward to a great result with Gus' eye exam on Monday and are praying that the progress of the cornea scarring has been stopped and is starting to heal.

Blessings to all who journey with us,
Gregg, Jill and Gus