The following story is from Preemie Babies 101 reader Daby, mom to twins Grace and Faith. If you’d like to share your NICU story with us, click the Share Your Story link, or email leighann@handtohold.org.
What started off as a normal doctors appointment in February turned out to be one of the happiest and scariest days of our lives. Delivery at 28 weeks, scared & uncertain of what our outcome would be, we just prayed that both girls would get through this. Every week we had with our twins was a blessing. With good days came bad days, as expected, and finally things were coming together. By the grace of God Grace came home in May, and of course being a twin she missed her sister Faith, who had many trying days. Being the sassy girl she is, Faith fought & won. Faith came home July 4 to complete our family. With our Faith that we had from day one and by the Grace of God, our puzzle is complete
What were the circumstances surrounding your child’s birth?
In the 28th week of my twin pregnancy, we went for a routine checkup with our high risk doctor. During the checkup they noticed that Twin B’s (whom we had already named Faith) heart rate was dropping. The staff sent me to labor and delivery for additional monitoring.
At around 7:30 p.m. the doctor came in and said since her heart rate had dropped three times in ten minutes, they had to go ahead and deliver.
What complications, diagnoses or surgeries did you or your child face?
The babies suffered from Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), meaning they were not getting many nutrients in order to grow effectively.
How old is your child or children now and how are they doing?
My twins, Grace and Faith, are now four months old, and they are progressing daily. Grace came home after spending 90 days in the NICU. Faith came home on oxygen 137 days after birth.
How did your whole family cope with this experience? How are you all doing now?
My family an I were fortunately able to adapt to the experience. The NICU had its ups and downs. What a roller coaster! We are doing wonderful now that the girls are home.
What did you learn about this experience that you’d like to pass on to others?
Pay attention to your body. Ask the doctors anything you need to ask. Do as much research as possible so that you are somewhat prepared for all the medical terms coming your way. You can’t control what is going on, so try to get as much medical advice as possible.
Is there anything else we need to know?
My babies are beautiful!
We couldn’t agree more, Daby. Thanks for sharing your story!