7 weeks - how is Bennett?

We've heard from several people that they're concerned about Bennett, but please know that he's doing okay.  He is smaller than Andrew, but he gains weight every day - usually 30-60 grams a day; and he's gained 13 oz in the last 2 weeks.  Bennett is below the 10th-percentile while Andrew is in the 50th-percentile in weight and size.  The gap has widened for a few reasons.  Bennett gets less food since he's smaller and can only handle less volume as he grows.  He'll catch up in the eating category as he gets older.  Bennett's hematocrit is still lower, which means that his body is using a lot of energy to try and create red blood cells.  It looks like this is going in the right direction based on other labs, but we'll find out more on Monday on whether he'll need another transfusion.  Bennett was also growth restricted in utero so he may just end up being smaller, but he's alive and rockin' it.  He is still getting some extra air, which keeps him doing well.  We'll keep you all posted, but don't worry, he's just doing this slower than his brother since he's smaller.  He's still doing okay and progressing nicely on his own path at his own pace.  When you compare him to himself on a weekly basis, he's on track.  Maybe he'll just end up being more agile than most Wilson boys.

Andrew will likely go home first which will create a whole set of feelings of joy and sadness, and fear; and maybe it will be an easier transition.  Who knows.  It will work out.  My mom will be here then to help out.  Andrew still has a heart murmer, which may be nothing or he may need surgery.  Like most things, we just won't know for a while. 

We do not know if either of them will have any long term neurological, muscular, or emotional issues; and maybe won't know for a long time.  This scares me more than Bennett being small or even Andrew's murmer.  It will work out, I'm sure.  We have a great support group!

Hopefully, I filled you in on more of the details but that I didn't make you sad.  The day-to-day is mostly good.  They are both gaining weight.  Char has been great.  She got to hold Andrew on Saturday and just loved it (for 5 minutes).  Kristen has been back to work for a few days which has worked out okay.  I've been back to work since the 2nd week.  We just landed a large project which is exciting, and provides the challenge of being efficient so I can get to see the boys and Kristen and Char each day too.  We spend as much time at the hospital and with Char as we can, which ends up meaning we hold and change them 3-4 times a day; and then sleep at home.  Andrew got his first few bottles this weekend just drinking a little bit before falling asleep and they've both been making some progress on breastfeeding.  They have gotten to spend some time in the same bed which is nice for them and great for us to see.

Andrew bear - week 7

Bennett bear - week 7

Andrew with a bottle!

Char found a horse ring on our outing to Podnah's for a breakfast BBQ.

Andrew's first bottle.  We were sad that we weren't there but it was the best decision for his care.  We are thankful that our nurse sent us this picture.

Char did her own hair with the barettes from Carolyn.

it was so special to see Char holding Andrew

Bennett has curly hair?

Char does great in the hospital all day.

Andy

I went to Target but they tore it down.  It looks like I've been out of the game for a while.

The A-team.  Adrian is back from vacation, Deb is a super RT, and Dr. Baker is great (for an intern).  All of our nurses and caregivers really have been great and we've even made friends with a few.  Adrian was in Germany and is back telling wordly stories about spas, an "adventure" for the bucket list.  By the way, the intern thing is a joke. 

high five!

tree artwork by Rachel, their designated bather

buddies, sharing a moment togetehr