Wednesday, January 28, 2009

All Day and All Night



Tuesday's holding somewhat made up for Monday's lack thereof. Mommy held Cayden for about four and a half hours during the day and he didn't ring an alarm once! I even got to feed him, albeit from a tube, but it was my breastmilk going into his little tummy, and that's what counts. Chunky monkey gained 20 grams overnight! His day nurse Thanh is amazing and so supportive. The new NICU is wonderful, fewer babies and much more calm and spacious. And there are windows with trees right outside, which is soothing.

Later in the evening, Daddy and I returned and Daddy had his first chance to hold Cayden, and just Cayden, as they swaddled him and didn't move his whole cocoon of padding. He did an amazing job and Cayden stayed very calm the entire time. It was so special for the three of us to be so close, physically, and together. And we had one of our favorite nurses, Erin, there to capture it on film.

We learned last night that we will most likely receive a diagnosis today at 5 when we meet with the entire medical team. We'll share more after this meeting. A tissue biopsy will be taken on Thursday and we've actually decided to disconnect Cayd's ventilator on Friday afternoon or evening. We want our favorite doctor, Dr. Slagle, to be there, since she was with us in the operating room and has been with us the entire time. She is an amazing person and we feel so lucky that Cayden has received her unbelievable care.

We're doing our best not to count down the days, and to celebrate each one, but we so enjoy our time with our baby boy that it's impossible not to absolutely dread the end of the week.

16 comments:

Lisa said...

I'm so glad you 3 got to have a good day together. Cayden clearly is calmed by being with you and enjoying his time with his mommy and daddy. You guys are doing an amazing job at living in the moment - such an amazing example of love and strength. The pictures speak a thousand words. I love them!

Sending lots of love,
Lisa and Tim

Anonymous said...

4.5 hours? Yeah! I'm so glad you both got some quality, relaxed time with little Cayden. He is so lucky to have you both. You guys are simply incredible. James and I continue to wish you peace, comfort, and strength each day. Lots of love - Erin

Anonymous said...

Paige and Scott-- I am so glad you are able to have these quiet moments with Cayden this week! Sending you lots of hugs and love...


-Amy (and Chuck)

KF said...

So glad you got to spend time with Cayden! Thinking about you all and sending lots of love your way.
xoxo,
Emily

Sarah said...

Paige and Scott, what beautiful pictures of you and Cayden. I am so glad that you have gotten to spend so much time holding your little boy. There is nothing, nothing like the feeling of holding your own child, as I know you know. We are thinking of you all day, every day and are sending our love.
Sarah, Brent & Eddie

Mayuri said...

Paige and Scott,
The three of you make a beautiful family. It's so evident by the smiles on your faces how much you love your son and love being near him. It is truly special that you have been able to spend these days together. Keep enjoying every second.

We love you lots.
Mayuri and James

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful family. These are amazing moments. You can see Daddy and Mommy's love reflected in little Cayden. I hope your 4.5 hours is doubled today. You continue to amaze us all with your strength and unending love. We are all here for you.
Love,
Ani

Anonymous said...

Paige and Scott,
The Pergaments send lots of love to you and Cayden. We admire your strength and courage. We are in awe of your clarity and your ability to document your parenting journey. We wish you continued strength and ability to find peace and comfort in knowing what amazing parents you are to Cayden.
Love, Heidi, Brian, Pearl Sol and Abe

Unknown said...

Paige and Scott-
Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you both. You are both being so strong and I admire you for that. Your family and friends are here for you.

xoxo-
Annie

Melis said...

Love those pics you posted. It is clear how much joy Cayden brings to you both and how much love is in your hearts and his. You are an inspiring family! sending so much love your way from me & pete.

Anonymous said...

I"m thinking of you and sending my love to you three.

With love,
monica delaney elsner

Anonymous said...

Scott, Paige and Cayden-

Jeff and I are sending all of our blessings to you during this difficult time. Your family pictures are beautiful and will always be treasured by everyone you have shared them with. Enjoy these days together. Every second, every minute and every hour will always stay etched in your hearts.

Love, Jeff and Traci

Unknown said...

Paige and Scott,
I am so happy for you to spend such quality time with your son Cayden. He is such a bundle of joy and I can just see the happiness he brings to you. I want you to know that I have all of my family and friends praying for you all during this time. May God bless you and protect you all.

Anonymous said...

Your strength is incredible. The photos are priceless and how wonderful to have little Cayden on film. Continue to treasure each moment with your angel.
Our prayers are always with you,
Michelle and Orazio

Anonymous said...

Paige and Scott,

We have been reading the Hirsch Happenings and the struggles that you all have been going through. We are amazed at your courage and strengh and the enduring love for your beautiful son Cayden. Our thoughts are with you.
Cheryl, Jerry, Josh, and Michael

Anonymous said...

Rabbi Zimmerman.....
Cayden is beautiful, what an amazing little boy who gives so much joy and is such a source of pure love. I can tell by your words and smiles how precious this time is for all of you. Paige and Scott- thank you for sharing Cayden with all of us. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. L'shalom.