A Quiet Weekend

Now where were we?? Ah, yes. After Friday's interventions, Jonah continued on the fast track towards healing and recovery. By Saturday morning Jonah was holding his own after his oxygen and medications continued to be weaned. He was now completely off of all sedation and pain medications. The team was finally able to change the dressings that were placed after the chest tubes were pulled. These had been looking pretty gross since the site had leaked the extra fluid when the tubes were removed. At the same time they took off the dressing on his chest incision. Jonah's scar will forever mark his start in this world and remind us of the road he has traveled. Looking at how smoothly his baby skin has been restored and thinking of what he has already experienced it reminded me of a great song by Jars of Clay...
"This road that we travel may it be the straight and narrow
God, give us peace and grace from You, all the day
Shelter with fire, our voices we raise still higher
God, give us peace and grace from You, all the day through"

We know Jonah's path has been paved with peace and grace!! And Rob and I are so blessed to walk this walk with him!! 

Saturday got even better when we were able to hold Jonah again for only the 2nd time since he was born. To feel his weight in our arms made us both want to break him free of the remaining tubes and IV's he still had connected and run for home:) It was not as comfortable for any of us because of all of these things but Jonah found a cozy spot and was able to take a short snooze while we watched him intently and snapped a few pictures. He has started to get the hang of his pacifier which encourages us greatly since it is a sign we can attempt a bottle soon...maybe this week!

Sunday continued along the with the same progress. Jonah's feedings of breast milk were advanced so that he is meeting his goal in terms of the amount he will receive in 24 hours. They added a little bit of fortified formula so that he will get a few extra calories too. We were able to hold Jonah, change diapers, dress him in a onesie, and interact with him just like any parents would do with their newborn. There was no sight of the sick E.T. we saw on Friday, instead we joyfully enjoyed the quiet on the unit and the friendly conversation with the staff that we become so close with. By the time we left on Sunday we discussed the plan for Jonah this week with his doctor.

• The only remaining central IV will be removed today (Monday)
• The only remaining continuous infusion of medication for his blood pressure will be stopped
• All meds will now be converted to an oral form
• Jonah will meet and work with therapists of all varieties...physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to build up his strength and coordination
• Possibly move Jonah down to the cardiac step down unit sometime midweek!!!!! Here Rob and I will assume all cares for Jonah and get all of the teaching we need to take this little guy home.

I can't believe that we are crossing this bridge already. So much has happened in such a short time after waiting for so long. The idea of having Jonah home with us is too wonderful for words.