Cole, Caleb and Reagan ~ Super Hero Alias: Mighty Triplet Threat

Age: 4 months old
Weight at birth: 3 lbs
Weeks gestation: 32 weeks 3 days
Time in the NICU: 33 days

Why Should Your Children Be Recognized as Preemies of the Year?

They say that having a child changes everything. When we found out we were pregnant with triplets, we knew our lives were forever changed. But, at 13 weeks into my pregnancy, I never imagined our babies would be in for the fight of their lives.

A routine ultrasound left us panicked with these words – Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). It broke my heart to learn that my identical boys had to struggle to grow and survive until their birth day. This transfusion syndrome caused Caleb to have decreased blood volume, slower than normal growth, and little to no amniotic fluid. Cole became overloaded with blood. The excess blood put a strain on Cole’s heart to the point that we watched him daily for heart failure, and too much amniotic fluid. We sat motionless when we were told that there was an 80%-90% chance one or both boys would not make it to be born, and even if they did, they may have severe problems.

We met with surgeons about options, but were denied surgery due to the impact on the boys’ triplet sister. We chose an amniotic fluid reduction to lessen the strain on Cole’s heart. After daily ultrasounds, over 2 months of hospital bed rest, and two rounds of magnesium to stop labor – the day finally came when we could not find Cole’s heartbeat. We had an emergency C-section and watched as our 3 pound miracles fought to get off oxygen, move past IV food, and grow.

If I had to pick a super hero power for my little fighters, we would say – Mighty Triplet Power! Looking back I was terrified to have triplets, and often referred to them as the “Triple Threat.” However, it was this Triplet Power that educated us on Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome, and blessed us with so many connections and friendships. We were blessed with resources three times over. I was welcomed with open arms to a group of over 50 Detroit area triplet moms. Best of all, I was connected to another triplet mom in our NICU “pod.” When you have triplets, and see them fighting a disease that only 15% of identicals get, you feel that no one else can understand. Looking back – Triplet Power was able to connect me to a world of strong mamas who do “get it.” Looking at our healthy 4 month old triplets today, I know their Mighty Triplet Powers will keep them strong. Yes, having triplets has meant triple the diapers, crying, and well . . . NO sleep. But, when I think of all that these babies went through – my heart cannot contain the love I have for each of my 3 babies. So, here’s to Mighty Triplet Power! It got us this far, and I know it will continue to connect us to people and places we never would have seen, had it not been for them making it in to this world.

Using Three Or More Characteristics of a Super Hero, Please Describe Your Children.

Small but Mighty, Brave, Super Smart!

What advice do you have for future NICU parents?

Take one day at a time.  When you think you can’t, you can.  Take care of yourself.  You cannot do everything.  Stand up for what you believe in/listen to your instincts.  Have hope.  Your love is enough.