September 19, 2011

Michael will never forget the ultrasound from this week. He has been hoping and praying that Jordan would be a fighter. God smiled on our family this week with a gift. We haven't been able to see Jordan's face at the last few appointments because of his position. This week, Jordan turned around as the nurse exclaimed, "Look at that! He has his fists in a fighting stance! You have a little Rocky. And look at those chubby cheeks!"

Fitting environment too - since Rocky was filmed in Philadelphia. They were so excited that they took a picture for us. Our little guy is just over 6 pounds, which is the average weight at 36 weeks gestation. A fetus can add up to a half pound each week starting at 36 weeks.

CHOP also checked the biophysical profile (BPP). This test measures Jordan's health by examining several factors such as the amniotic fluid, heart rate, breathing, etc. Jordan always scores an 8 out of 8. Our doctor explained that the BPP doesn't necessarily relate to how well Jordan will do when he is born. Again, every case is different and it just depends on how well Jordan develops and handles treatment after birth. The biggest risk factor is the liver being "up" in the chest area. Jordan's liver is "up."

We met with a lactation specialist this week as well. This was another reminder that there is nothing "normal" about what we are about to face. Things that we would normally take for granted require a whole new way of thinking. They have a very meticulous process that we will have to follow when feeding Jordan in order to give him the best opportunity to survive. In short, it is absolutely amazing how the breast milk was intended to provide the perfect nutrients for an infant. It first acts as a shot of vitamins for essential nutrients and antibodies to protect against infection and disease. We will even have to feed Jordan in a specific order after pumping because the breast milk lines the stomach to prepare for future feedings.

We are looking ahead to our last appointments as we continue to thank God for forming Jordan in the womb and adding such a wonderful blessing to our family.

September 13, 2011

This week, Grandma got to come along to our appointment and view the sonogram. Jordan entertained us by trying to touch his toes with his little hands. We all watched baby Jordan practice breathing. The doctor explained this practice of motion means the brain is getting enough oxygen and blood. His fluids, the amniotic and body fluids, look very good. They just want Brandi to stay pregnant so that Jordan can continue to develop.

September 6, 2011

At our last appointment, we actually got to see Jordan practice breathing. The nurses were very excited to see a strong, healthy baby. The plan is to continue into the pregnancy normally. Brandi will give birth naturally whenever it's time for Jordan to come. Her due date is October 18th. We appreciate everyone's prayers and support for our son Jordan. We are so thankful to see how he is developing in the womb.

Brandi and Michael visited the Ronald McDonald house last week. We signed up on the waiting list as we plan to move there after Jordan is born. It is about 8 city blocks from the hospital and has a shuttle that takes families back and forth from CHOP. The house is designed specifically for families with children who need special care. It is an old mansion that was donated to the Ronald McDonald Foundation. It will work very well for our family. It has two indoor playgrounds and special events geared toward families, such as free haircuts or donated football tickets. Companies donate food and prepare supper each evening for the residents. They even have an electric train that Caleb can play with!

Soon, we will share pictures of the sights we've seen in the city.