Adelaide turned one and is doing excellent! Dave and Anne couldn't be happier!
Here are some pictures to show her off-
Friday, February 3, 2012
Adelaide turns 1
For those that check back on this site for updates- here is one.
Adelaide turned one and is doing excellent! Dave and Anne couldn't be happier!
Here are some pictures to show her off-
Adelaide turned one and is doing excellent! Dave and Anne couldn't be happier!
Here are some pictures to show her off-
Friday, January 14, 2011
More Details
Sorry this is so late.
Baby Adelaide Esther DeWitt was born on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 5:54pm. She weighed in at 6 pounds 15 ounces and was 20 inches long. So, according to the predictions in the previous post- I believe it was a tie between Anne and I. Although I said boy- and Anne said girl.
So, I did end up having preeclampsia after all. They caught my urine samples all day Tuesday and tested it Wednesday morning. They also did a blood draw. My urine protein went from 300+ to 2700+. Not good. My blood work showed the platelets went down, which is also not good. Dr. Zimmerman came in to tell me they would be inducing me that day, because delivery was the only cure for preeclampsia. My contractions were few and far between by that time. So they started me on pitocin to get my contractions coming more regularly. Once they were they had to hook me up to Magnesium Sulfate. This was some awful stuff! But it was necessary to keep me from having seizures, which can happen with preeclampsia. They had to empty a whole bag of the stuff into my system and then keep a drip of it going. It was the weirdest sensation. It was very HOT going in. Made my mouth and whole body feel VERY hot. They brought in a fan and that helped. My eyes also felt weird. I couldn't focus very well and felt very drugged. The side effects from the Magnesium were nausea and headaches, which I was already experiencing. :(
They also had to give me two whole doses of anti-biotics because the results from strep B test (which had been on Monday) hadn't come in yet. They wanted to be on the side of caution. My blood pressure was not very high, but high for me. It had actually been really low the whole pregnancy.
Dr.Zimmerman came in around 11:30am to break my water. This was a failed attempt and VERY, VERY painful. The baby hadn't dropped down enough to reach it, even with that little hook thing. He said he would come back after his surgery at 12:00 to try again. I was determined to have an epidural by then so that it wouldn't be so painful. I was able to do that because I had progressed enough. He came back around 3:30pm and was successful at breaking my water (without any pain :)). I was at 8cm.
We all relaxed and played the waiting game for a little while. Then I felt a change and became a little anxious and a little more nauseous. I asked Anne to get our nurse or the doctor. They came in a little after 5:30pm and Dr. Zimmerman checked me. He said I was a 10 and the baby's head was right there. They hurriedly set everything up and got their delivery garb on. We waited for a contraction and I pushed. Dr. Z. told me to stop. I didn't understand why until I realized the head was already out. He gave me the go ahead and I pushed her out very quickly. Dr. Z. asked "What do we see?" and we all had to take a few seconds to look. Dave said, "Nothing?". It was an awesome moment when we all realized they had gotten the girl they really wanted. (at least Anne really wanted a girl).
The stay in the hospital was longer than we all wanted but overall good. I only had to have the Magnesium for 12 hours after the birth instead of 24 hours. I cried with relief. We had some great nurses and some not so great. We had bad news concerning the legal side of things for Dave and Anne. Their pre-birth order was denied once again by a local judge. This meant Scott and I had to be on the birth certificate instead of Dave and Anne. This has caused a trickle down of problems and confusion with everything from social security numbers to insurance. What a mess that dumb judge has caused! But Dave and Anne didn't want to focus too much on it and take joy from this experience. They have already started the steps it takes to "adopt" their biological baby. Ridiculous!!!
Some other events that went on were finding out Addie had a broken clavicle, which was not a huge deal and had already started to heal. She had a heart murmur that had to be checked out and was found to be no big deal also. Anne has struggled with breastfeeding. Addie is such a sleepy baby because of being early and being a little jaundiced, that she hasn't latched on very good. They have to undress her just to get her to wake up enough to eat. Addie was able to get my colustrum, some of Anne's milk, and is now mostly formula fed. She gained a little weight at her last appointment and continues to increase her food intake. Dave went back to work on the 13th of January, which was very hard for him. And probably hard for Anne and Addie too.
I'm feeling much better. Headaches are almost gone. I go in to see Dr.Z. for a blood pressure check on Tues. January 18. My milk is starting to dry up and I'm starting to feel relief in that area.
Please continue to pray for good health for Addie and strength and energy for Dave and Anne. And also continued healing for me. Thank you for coming along on this journey with us and for all your prayers thus far. I will be doing newborn pictures soon! (besides the ones I did in the hospital) So check back periodically. Thanks again :)
Baby Adelaide Esther DeWitt was born on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 5:54pm. She weighed in at 6 pounds 15 ounces and was 20 inches long. So, according to the predictions in the previous post- I believe it was a tie between Anne and I. Although I said boy- and Anne said girl.
So, I did end up having preeclampsia after all. They caught my urine samples all day Tuesday and tested it Wednesday morning. They also did a blood draw. My urine protein went from 300+ to 2700+. Not good. My blood work showed the platelets went down, which is also not good. Dr. Zimmerman came in to tell me they would be inducing me that day, because delivery was the only cure for preeclampsia. My contractions were few and far between by that time. So they started me on pitocin to get my contractions coming more regularly. Once they were they had to hook me up to Magnesium Sulfate. This was some awful stuff! But it was necessary to keep me from having seizures, which can happen with preeclampsia. They had to empty a whole bag of the stuff into my system and then keep a drip of it going. It was the weirdest sensation. It was very HOT going in. Made my mouth and whole body feel VERY hot. They brought in a fan and that helped. My eyes also felt weird. I couldn't focus very well and felt very drugged. The side effects from the Magnesium were nausea and headaches, which I was already experiencing. :(
They also had to give me two whole doses of anti-biotics because the results from strep B test (which had been on Monday) hadn't come in yet. They wanted to be on the side of caution. My blood pressure was not very high, but high for me. It had actually been really low the whole pregnancy.
Dr.Zimmerman came in around 11:30am to break my water. This was a failed attempt and VERY, VERY painful. The baby hadn't dropped down enough to reach it, even with that little hook thing. He said he would come back after his surgery at 12:00 to try again. I was determined to have an epidural by then so that it wouldn't be so painful. I was able to do that because I had progressed enough. He came back around 3:30pm and was successful at breaking my water (without any pain :)). I was at 8cm.
We all relaxed and played the waiting game for a little while. Then I felt a change and became a little anxious and a little more nauseous. I asked Anne to get our nurse or the doctor. They came in a little after 5:30pm and Dr. Zimmerman checked me. He said I was a 10 and the baby's head was right there. They hurriedly set everything up and got their delivery garb on. We waited for a contraction and I pushed. Dr. Z. told me to stop. I didn't understand why until I realized the head was already out. He gave me the go ahead and I pushed her out very quickly. Dr. Z. asked "What do we see?" and we all had to take a few seconds to look. Dave said, "Nothing?". It was an awesome moment when we all realized they had gotten the girl they really wanted. (at least Anne really wanted a girl).
The stay in the hospital was longer than we all wanted but overall good. I only had to have the Magnesium for 12 hours after the birth instead of 24 hours. I cried with relief. We had some great nurses and some not so great. We had bad news concerning the legal side of things for Dave and Anne. Their pre-birth order was denied once again by a local judge. This meant Scott and I had to be on the birth certificate instead of Dave and Anne. This has caused a trickle down of problems and confusion with everything from social security numbers to insurance. What a mess that dumb judge has caused! But Dave and Anne didn't want to focus too much on it and take joy from this experience. They have already started the steps it takes to "adopt" their biological baby. Ridiculous!!!
Some other events that went on were finding out Addie had a broken clavicle, which was not a huge deal and had already started to heal. She had a heart murmur that had to be checked out and was found to be no big deal also. Anne has struggled with breastfeeding. Addie is such a sleepy baby because of being early and being a little jaundiced, that she hasn't latched on very good. They have to undress her just to get her to wake up enough to eat. Addie was able to get my colustrum, some of Anne's milk, and is now mostly formula fed. She gained a little weight at her last appointment and continues to increase her food intake. Dave went back to work on the 13th of January, which was very hard for him. And probably hard for Anne and Addie too.
I'm feeling much better. Headaches are almost gone. I go in to see Dr.Z. for a blood pressure check on Tues. January 18. My milk is starting to dry up and I'm starting to feel relief in that area.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Birth Predictions
Today is the day!
Angie: boy, 7lb 2oz, 2.5inches, 5.25pm
Anne: girl, 7lb, 19.5inches, 7.30pm
Dave: boy, 7lb 6oz, 18inches, 4pm
Scott: girl, 8lb 2oz, 19.5inches, 6.30pm
Come on, baby!
Angie: boy, 7lb 2oz, 2.5inches, 5.25pm
Anne: girl, 7lb, 19.5inches, 7.30pm
Dave: boy, 7lb 6oz, 18inches, 4pm
Scott: girl, 8lb 2oz, 19.5inches, 6.30pm
Come on, baby!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
At the Hospital and Waiting
Angie woke up early this morning with a really bad migrane. It wasn't helped by Tylenol, so she called the doctor and he asked her to come into the hospital. Dave and I picked her up and we arrived at about 5.45am at the emergency entrance.
We got taken up to the Boken floor (Labour and Delivery) and got checked in. The monitors were hooked up to measure the baby's heart rate and also the frequency of contractions - which was every 5 - 7 minutes, but not too painful.
Angie's headache was still painful and the doctor said that together with her elevated blood pressure these could be signs of preclampsia, which could be dangerous to the baby.
The blood and urine tests showed all normal levels except for high levels of protein, which could also indicate decreased kidney function.
Angie had a shot of Stadol to help her headache which made her feel loopy and nauseous.
A routine ultrasound was also ordered. Angie felt sick throughout. The baby looked good, s/he is already 7 pounds 9 oz and there is plenty of amniotic fluid.
The doctor ordered Angie to stay overnight and to have an IV to replenish her fluids. She also has to save urine for 24 hours. Vicadin has helped her headache.
Depending on these results we may have the baby tomorrow or Angie will go home on bed rest. She will also have a sleeping pill tonight.
We got taken up to the Boken floor (Labour and Delivery) and got checked in. The monitors were hooked up to measure the baby's heart rate and also the frequency of contractions - which was every 5 - 7 minutes, but not too painful.
Angie's headache was still painful and the doctor said that together with her elevated blood pressure these could be signs of preclampsia, which could be dangerous to the baby.
The blood and urine tests showed all normal levels except for high levels of protein, which could also indicate decreased kidney function.
Angie had a shot of Stadol to help her headache which made her feel loopy and nauseous.
A routine ultrasound was also ordered. Angie felt sick throughout. The baby looked good, s/he is already 7 pounds 9 oz and there is plenty of amniotic fluid.
The doctor ordered Angie to stay overnight and to have an IV to replenish her fluids. She also has to save urine for 24 hours. Vicadin has helped her headache.
Depending on these results we may have the baby tomorrow or Angie will go home on bed rest. She will also have a sleeping pill tonight.
Monday, January 3, 2011
35w 6d Update
Today was our '36 week' appointment.
Angie is still not feeling great, it is now her eyes and ears, hopefully some Sudafed and the netti pot will clear it up soon/before the baby comes.
Today was the group B strep test and also the check how dilated Angie is.
Wait for it - Angie is already 4CM! However, the doctor said that the baby could come soon or not for another 4 weeks. Angie said she had a feeling that she was dilated already. So, when the contractions start things could progress pretty quickly.
We have weekly appointments now until Acorn comes.
Next: predictions of sex, due date and weight from Angie, Anne and Dave.
Angie is still not feeling great, it is now her eyes and ears, hopefully some Sudafed and the netti pot will clear it up soon/before the baby comes.
Today was the group B strep test and also the check how dilated Angie is.
Wait for it - Angie is already 4CM! However, the doctor said that the baby could come soon or not for another 4 weeks. Angie said she had a feeling that she was dilated already. So, when the contractions start things could progress pretty quickly.
We have weekly appointments now until Acorn comes.
Next: predictions of sex, due date and weight from Angie, Anne and Dave.
Friday, December 24, 2010
All of Us and the Baby Bump
All of these were taken at exactly 34 weeks by the talented Kim Bazan - thanks Kim.
Isn't Angie gorgeous?! :)
Isn't Angie gorgeous?! :)
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
An Update from Anne, finally...
Hasn't Angie done a great job keeping the blog up to date? Even more so considering she is the one carrying the baby (and looking after her own four children)! :)
This week we are at 34 weeks. Angie posted on her Facebook status that we had 43 days until 'baby day' - wow!
Time had been going pretty slowly for Dave and I, but that has changed in the last couple of weeks and all of a sudden time is flying by.
Dr Zimmerman measured Angie on Monday and she is measuring exactly what she should be and her weight gain (3 pounds in the 2 weeks) is perfect too. The baby is active and she is having contractions that she is feeling about 4 or 5 times a day, which is what is expected. Angie is doing well controlling her blood glucose levels with diet, especially with holiday foods and celebrations. The doctor is happy so far that diet is controlling her numbers, but if that stops being the case she will need to take medication to help regulate her levels. Angie has had a terrible cold/flu and blocked sinuses for the last month and last weekend she got some antibiotics and nose spray and she is finally feeling better and has some more energy.
Last night Angie felt some strong contractions and some even woke her up during the night, but they are less today, so it must be a false alarm. I am not ready for this baby yet!
Next time: our version of maternity pics and some peeks at the nursery.
This week we are at 34 weeks. Angie posted on her Facebook status that we had 43 days until 'baby day' - wow!
Time had been going pretty slowly for Dave and I, but that has changed in the last couple of weeks and all of a sudden time is flying by.
Dr Zimmerman measured Angie on Monday and she is measuring exactly what she should be and her weight gain (3 pounds in the 2 weeks) is perfect too. The baby is active and she is having contractions that she is feeling about 4 or 5 times a day, which is what is expected. Angie is doing well controlling her blood glucose levels with diet, especially with holiday foods and celebrations. The doctor is happy so far that diet is controlling her numbers, but if that stops being the case she will need to take medication to help regulate her levels. Angie has had a terrible cold/flu and blocked sinuses for the last month and last weekend she got some antibiotics and nose spray and she is finally feeling better and has some more energy.
Last night Angie felt some strong contractions and some even woke her up during the night, but they are less today, so it must be a false alarm. I am not ready for this baby yet!
Next time: our version of maternity pics and some peeks at the nursery.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
It's been far too long.....so sorry.
We have obviously been caught up in the activities of the pregnancy and the time of season to post. That isn't really a good excuse, but I tried.
The ultrasound went great and everything measured how it should and right on track. And of course, the sex of the baby is still a big question mark. I have my suspicions but I will keep them to myself. Anne has all the pictures on a CD, so she will be (hopefully) putting them up along with the post for you all to see.
Every appointment since then has been great news, except for one. The doctor sent me for another 3-hour glucose test and I did not pass this one. But it now has more to do with the pregnancy than if I'd had it at 15 weeks pregnant. This means it should probably go away when I deliver the baby.
For now we are able to control this with diet. I met with a dietician (as if I know nothing about diabetes) and they set me up with a food plan which contained how many carbs I could have at each meal and snack. They told me my numbers had to stay below certain numbers. It hasn't been too bad, but I do miss some things. Like pop. I know I'm better off without it anyway, but I really love an ice cold fountain coke. I also miss my cereal in the morning. I am a cold breakfast kinda gal. But cereal has too many carbs for the morning. Along with fruit. I can't have any fruit in the morning. So eggs and yogurt has been my breakfast staple. What a pain to cook eggs every morning! And lattes. I miss lattes. They are a comfort thing mostly. When it's cold (like today) outside, a hot latte just hits the spot. Pray that we will be able to continue to control it with diet instead of taking medication.
My weight gain is great. It's the least amount I've had out of any of my pregnancies. I believe it's 12 pounds so far. And only two months to go! I've been having a lot of contractions, but nothing steady or constant. Anne really wants to hold out for a February baby, but I believe it will take place in January. Just call it a hunch, or at least a deep desire. :)
The Holidays will help time to pass quickly and easily. Before you know it the due date will be around the corner. I've done a lot of my Christmas shopping online, which definitely makes it easier! I did brave the black Friday sales. I ended up staying up all night which only worsened my already terrible cold. Let's not talk about that experience! It was fun but would have been better not pregnant and not sick. We made it to Iowa and back without any complications. Major traveling for the Holiday season is done, thank goodness.
We'll try not to let it go so long without an update. Anne will make her appearance on here one of these days. She needs to tell you about the preparations and nursery- and maybe even show some pictures! ;)
Thanks for hanging with us and for all of your prayers.
Until next time.
Angie
The ultrasound went great and everything measured how it should and right on track. And of course, the sex of the baby is still a big question mark. I have my suspicions but I will keep them to myself. Anne has all the pictures on a CD, so she will be (hopefully) putting them up along with the post for you all to see.
Every appointment since then has been great news, except for one. The doctor sent me for another 3-hour glucose test and I did not pass this one. But it now has more to do with the pregnancy than if I'd had it at 15 weeks pregnant. This means it should probably go away when I deliver the baby.
For now we are able to control this with diet. I met with a dietician (as if I know nothing about diabetes) and they set me up with a food plan which contained how many carbs I could have at each meal and snack. They told me my numbers had to stay below certain numbers. It hasn't been too bad, but I do miss some things. Like pop. I know I'm better off without it anyway, but I really love an ice cold fountain coke. I also miss my cereal in the morning. I am a cold breakfast kinda gal. But cereal has too many carbs for the morning. Along with fruit. I can't have any fruit in the morning. So eggs and yogurt has been my breakfast staple. What a pain to cook eggs every morning! And lattes. I miss lattes. They are a comfort thing mostly. When it's cold (like today) outside, a hot latte just hits the spot. Pray that we will be able to continue to control it with diet instead of taking medication.
My weight gain is great. It's the least amount I've had out of any of my pregnancies. I believe it's 12 pounds so far. And only two months to go! I've been having a lot of contractions, but nothing steady or constant. Anne really wants to hold out for a February baby, but I believe it will take place in January. Just call it a hunch, or at least a deep desire. :)
The Holidays will help time to pass quickly and easily. Before you know it the due date will be around the corner. I've done a lot of my Christmas shopping online, which definitely makes it easier! I did brave the black Friday sales. I ended up staying up all night which only worsened my already terrible cold. Let's not talk about that experience! It was fun but would have been better not pregnant and not sick. We made it to Iowa and back without any complications. Major traveling for the Holiday season is done, thank goodness.
We'll try not to let it go so long without an update. Anne will make her appearance on here one of these days. She needs to tell you about the preparations and nursery- and maybe even show some pictures! ;)
Thanks for hanging with us and for all of your prayers.
Until next time.
Angie
Friday, August 27, 2010
Great, great, great news
My three hour glucose test turned out normal!! Can you believe it? I can't. I had myself (along with my doctor) convinced that I was in the beginning stages of having diabetes. But all my numbers came back normal from the three hour test. I am so thankful!
God is so awesome!
The ultrasound has been set for September 27. But don't wait around for any news. Dave and Anne don't want to find out what they are having. This will be sooooo hard for me!
God is so awesome!
The ultrasound has been set for September 27. But don't wait around for any news. Dave and Anne don't want to find out what they are having. This will be sooooo hard for me!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Good News, Bad News
This is Angie. Anne will make an appearance on her sometime soon. But right now she is super busy! Her family is making their first visit to the States and Anne has been busy with preparations. Her parents arrive tonight. Her sister arrives on Saturday. And her other sister (and family) will be coming in a couple of weeks. I have some good news and bad news to share.
Good News- Things are going great! Sorry we have kept you waiting in suspense. Anne and I have been to my OB Doctor 2 times since the last post. Dr. Zimmerman says that things are looking great. Growth is on track and results were good from the exam.
We were accepted for the special insurance that Dave and Anne applied for. There was certain terms. They would not cover any complications from my nose ring and they would not cover anything having to do with gestational diabetes, which I have had in past pregnancies.
Here comes the bad news.
Bad News- Dr. Zimmerman sent me at 14 weeks to get the glucose test done because of my previous history of gestational diabetes. I failed it. When we went to see Dr. Zimmerman yesterday, he said it is not good to fail that test this early. It pretty much means that I am diabetic already. Diabetes is prevalent in my family. I have a son with Type 1 and my brother just got diagnosed with Type 1 a few months ago. Dr. Zimmerman said there is obviously a bad gene in our family. If I have diabetes now, it may not go away when the baby is born. This is a shocking revelation.
I am sitting in the lab at Holland Hospital right now. I've been here for a total of 3 hours already. I have my last blood draw in 20 minutes. This test will determine if I have diabetes, for sure, already. We'll know by the end of the day.
This is bad for Dave and Anne because it does put the baby at some risk. And also, all of these tests, medications, and extra costs are not covered by the very expensive insurance that they are already paying for.
Please pray that everything goes well, and that no matter, the results are received well and things will work out.
Thank you.
Good News- Things are going great! Sorry we have kept you waiting in suspense. Anne and I have been to my OB Doctor 2 times since the last post. Dr. Zimmerman says that things are looking great. Growth is on track and results were good from the exam.
We were accepted for the special insurance that Dave and Anne applied for. There was certain terms. They would not cover any complications from my nose ring and they would not cover anything having to do with gestational diabetes, which I have had in past pregnancies.
Here comes the bad news.
Bad News- Dr. Zimmerman sent me at 14 weeks to get the glucose test done because of my previous history of gestational diabetes. I failed it. When we went to see Dr. Zimmerman yesterday, he said it is not good to fail that test this early. It pretty much means that I am diabetic already. Diabetes is prevalent in my family. I have a son with Type 1 and my brother just got diagnosed with Type 1 a few months ago. Dr. Zimmerman said there is obviously a bad gene in our family. If I have diabetes now, it may not go away when the baby is born. This is a shocking revelation.
I am sitting in the lab at Holland Hospital right now. I've been here for a total of 3 hours already. I have my last blood draw in 20 minutes. This test will determine if I have diabetes, for sure, already. We'll know by the end of the day.
This is bad for Dave and Anne because it does put the baby at some risk. And also, all of these tests, medications, and extra costs are not covered by the very expensive insurance that they are already paying for.
Please pray that everything goes well, and that no matter, the results are received well and things will work out.
Thank you.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Sorry it took so Long
Our ultrasound turned out great last Monday. We found out there is one baby inside me, growing and developing. We all had a mixture of reactions and emotions. At first I was disappointed. Dave said he was a little too, but then was angry at himself for feeling that way. We all came to the conclusion that this was good news. With one baby instead of two, there would be less complications. Things would be easier on me and the baby. I told Anne she wouldn't be so overwhelmed and would be able to enjoy everything so much better with one baby. She agreed.
It still would have been pretty neat to give Dave and Anne 2 babies with this costly one-time experience. But we were grateful to see the one and be able to get a glimpse of it's little beating heart.
Thank you for your support and prayers. We have another ultrasound on Tuesday June 22nd. I will update you with the results as soon as I can.
It still would have been pretty neat to give Dave and Anne 2 babies with this costly one-time experience. But we were grateful to see the one and be able to get a glimpse of it's little beating heart.
Thank you for your support and prayers. We have another ultrasound on Tuesday June 22nd. I will update you with the results as soon as I can.
Monday, May 31, 2010
God is Good
I have some great news!!! I know, I know. It's a little late, but I wanted to give Anne a chance to tell everyone she wanted to first.
WE ARE PREGNANT!!!!
The blood tests on Monday and Wednesday came back with awesome results. The call came in on Monday with Dave home from lunch and Anne sitting there with him. It was the best timing with the best news. Everyone is very excited (to say the least).
The next step is an appointment we have at the fertility center on June 7. They will be doing an ultrasound to see if both embryos took, or just one. Now that things are a little more of a reality, maybe Anne will make a guest appearance on the blog.
As for me, the pregnancy feels quite normal. I need naps in the afternoon and I have some strange hunger cravings. It does feel a little different. Just knowing this baby isn't mine keeps me a little disconnected. But I think that's normal and probably a good thing.
Thanks for all of your prayers. Please pray that everything goes smoothly for the next couple of months especially- and throughout the pregnancy.
WE ARE PREGNANT!!!!
The blood tests on Monday and Wednesday came back with awesome results. The call came in on Monday with Dave home from lunch and Anne sitting there with him. It was the best timing with the best news. Everyone is very excited (to say the least).
The next step is an appointment we have at the fertility center on June 7. They will be doing an ultrasound to see if both embryos took, or just one. Now that things are a little more of a reality, maybe Anne will make a guest appearance on the blog.
As for me, the pregnancy feels quite normal. I need naps in the afternoon and I have some strange hunger cravings. It does feel a little different. Just knowing this baby isn't mine keeps me a little disconnected. But I think that's normal and probably a good thing.
Thanks for all of your prayers. Please pray that everything goes smoothly for the next couple of months especially- and throughout the pregnancy.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Still Waiting
I wanted to give you guys a heads up as to what is happening soon.
I have orders to get blood tests done on Monday and Wednesday. If I go in early enough, we should know the same day.
On a positive note, my chiropractor knows about the procedure and this is what he had to say on Wednesday.
"I predict that it took the first time from what I see here" (As he was feeling my back) "I believe you'll have good news on Monday"
!!!!!!!!!!!!
But we will see. Still trying to remain neutral.....but it's so hard.
Never thought of myself as a positive person....but maybe I am.
Or maybe someone with a lot of FAITH!
Stay tuned!
I have orders to get blood tests done on Monday and Wednesday. If I go in early enough, we should know the same day.
On a positive note, my chiropractor knows about the procedure and this is what he had to say on Wednesday.
"I predict that it took the first time from what I see here" (As he was feeling my back) "I believe you'll have good news on Monday"
!!!!!!!!!!!!
But we will see. Still trying to remain neutral.....but it's so hard.
Never thought of myself as a positive person....but maybe I am.
Or maybe someone with a lot of FAITH!
Stay tuned!
Friday, May 14, 2010
All is Well So Far
I'm nearing the end of my sentence. Bed rest is not fun when you feel fine. I was a little tired, but that is about it. I've been catching up on my Google Reader, email, random internet surfing, and magazines.
The procedure was great. Other than the fact that my bladder was so full I thought I would pee on the doctor while he was working. And of course, the nurse had to put the ultrasound thing right on top of my bladder and push down! It only took a few minutes and they were done with the transfer. Then they used a catheter to help ease my discomfort. OUCH!
The doctor didn't give precise grades for the embryos, but instead said that 4 of the 5 were excellent. The fifth was okay. So they put in two of the excellent ones and we'll know more in a week or so.
Thanks for all your prayers!
Anne has pictures of me in my hospital garb and some of her from her procedure. Maybe she'll post them for all of you.
The procedure was great. Other than the fact that my bladder was so full I thought I would pee on the doctor while he was working. And of course, the nurse had to put the ultrasound thing right on top of my bladder and push down! It only took a few minutes and they were done with the transfer. Then they used a catheter to help ease my discomfort. OUCH!
The doctor didn't give precise grades for the embryos, but instead said that 4 of the 5 were excellent. The fifth was okay. So they put in two of the excellent ones and we'll know more in a week or so.
Thanks for all your prayers!
Anne has pictures of me in my hospital garb and some of her from her procedure. Maybe she'll post them for all of you.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
T-Day T Minus 12 hours (approximately)
That's right, Transfer Day is tomorrow. At 11:45- so that all of you can be praying.
Anne's egg retrieval went good on Tuesday. They got seven eggs. They deposited Dave's deposit (tee-hee).
We received word today that 5 of the 7 eggs were mature. So they made 5 embryos. They give grades to the embryos- One being perfect and Four being poor. We will find out tomorrow how theirs are graded. Two will be used right away.
Then they will do the TRANSFER!
I'll be out of commission for the whole day. I have to take a happy pill (valium) and lay on my back for the whole day.
Pray everything goes smoothly and that the eggs take right away.
Pray that I will be able to relax and stay in bed- Doctor's orders!
We'll update when we can!
Anne's egg retrieval went good on Tuesday. They got seven eggs. They deposited Dave's deposit (tee-hee).
We received word today that 5 of the 7 eggs were mature. So they made 5 embryos. They give grades to the embryos- One being perfect and Four being poor. We will find out tomorrow how theirs are graded. Two will be used right away.
Then they will do the TRANSFER!
I'll be out of commission for the whole day. I have to take a happy pill (valium) and lay on my back for the whole day.
Pray everything goes smoothly and that the eggs take right away.
Pray that I will be able to relax and stay in bed- Doctor's orders!
We'll update when we can!
Monday, May 10, 2010
3 Days and Counting
Big things are happening. This is the week. T-Day is in sight.
I had an appointment on Thursday where they had to do another ultrasound.
Yes, that's right. They had to use the probe.
I've talked about it previously. There's a photo if you really want to see.
I thought I'd include another photo in this post. This photo is of the "probe cover" , as they call it.
Here it is.
Doesn't the "probe cover" look suspiciously like an item with a different name?
And do you know what the "probe cover" does? It covers the probe when they use it.
True story. This is the real deal, here.
I got to poke Anne with a gigantic needle yesterday. It was a little frightening. But we did it.
I don't have a photo, but Dave took some pictures of it. Maybe they will post them.
It had to be done at precisely 9pm. Right after the very disappointing 'Amazing Race' that we watched.
It was preparation for tomorrow. It is harvest day for Anne tomorrow.
Please be in prayer for Anne that everything goes smoothly and they get the eggs that they need.
Please be in prayer for Dave and Anne as they have to make an important decision about how many embryos to make.
Please be in prayer for everyone because Transfer Day is Thursday!
I will check back in when I'm able to keep you up to date.
I had an appointment on Thursday where they had to do another ultrasound.
Yes, that's right. They had to use the probe.
I've talked about it previously. There's a photo if you really want to see.
I thought I'd include another photo in this post. This photo is of the "probe cover" , as they call it.
Here it is.
Doesn't the "probe cover" look suspiciously like an item with a different name?
And do you know what the "probe cover" does? It covers the probe when they use it.
True story. This is the real deal, here.
I got to poke Anne with a gigantic needle yesterday. It was a little frightening. But we did it.
I don't have a photo, but Dave took some pictures of it. Maybe they will post them.
It had to be done at precisely 9pm. Right after the very disappointing 'Amazing Race' that we watched.
It was preparation for tomorrow. It is harvest day for Anne tomorrow.
Please be in prayer for Anne that everything goes smoothly and they get the eggs that they need.
Please be in prayer for Dave and Anne as they have to make an important decision about how many embryos to make.
Please be in prayer for everyone because Transfer Day is Thursday!
I will check back in when I'm able to keep you up to date.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Good News
I have good news to report. Anne went in for an appointment today and things looked much better. They were able to see at least 8 eggs and new growth happening. Things are on track and looking positive! Thanks for praying!
Today I start taking three estrogen pills a day. I have an appointment tomorrow to make sure I am on track. Anne has another appointment on Friday to check the follicle growth and make sure there are plenty of eggs.
T-Day is approaching quickly. (Transfer Day)
Another thing to keep in your prayers- How many embryos to do? Dave and Anne have to make the decision on how many embryos to make. It would be good to have more than the 2 we plan on implanting. That way, if pregnancy doesn't happen this time we have some embryos waiting to try again. If pregnancy does happen, Dave and Anne have to decide what to do with the frozen embryos. We consider embryos to be life and need to be treated as such.
So please pray for Dave and Anne in this decision they have to make.
Today I start taking three estrogen pills a day. I have an appointment tomorrow to make sure I am on track. Anne has another appointment on Friday to check the follicle growth and make sure there are plenty of eggs.
T-Day is approaching quickly. (Transfer Day)
Another thing to keep in your prayers- How many embryos to do? Dave and Anne have to make the decision on how many embryos to make. It would be good to have more than the 2 we plan on implanting. That way, if pregnancy doesn't happen this time we have some embryos waiting to try again. If pregnancy does happen, Dave and Anne have to decide what to do with the frozen embryos. We consider embryos to be life and need to be treated as such.
So please pray for Dave and Anne in this decision they have to make.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Getting caught up
The second blood test turned out good. My estradiol levels were where they should be. So Christine gave me the instructions for the next phase- Take less Lupron and start taking the Estrogen pills. This helps to start the thickening of the uterus walls so they are ready to accept the transfer. I started with one pill a day and then went to two pills a day. Tomorrow I start taking three a day and I have an appointment for Thursday morning. They will check my uterine lining, I guess.
Anne has had to take different drugs than me. She actually has to mix stuff together and then use a needle to shoot it into herself. I believe (but not positive) it is to help boost the growth of follicles so that she will have more eggs available.
For those that read this blog, please be in constant prayer. Anne had an appointment with Dr. Young to check on follicle growth. It did not go well. She only had two eggs on one side and the other side couldn't be located. I am not sure yet what that means to the whole process. Anne said that Dr. Young did not seem hopeful. It would be devastating to come this far, only to be let down and not continue. Pray for more follicle growth. Pray for the other ovary to be located. Pray for Dave and Anne and whatever may come next.
Thank you for your support.
I'll give you an update as soon as I know anything.
Anne has had to take different drugs than me. She actually has to mix stuff together and then use a needle to shoot it into herself. I believe (but not positive) it is to help boost the growth of follicles so that she will have more eggs available.
For those that read this blog, please be in constant prayer. Anne had an appointment with Dr. Young to check on follicle growth. It did not go well. She only had two eggs on one side and the other side couldn't be located. I am not sure yet what that means to the whole process. Anne said that Dr. Young did not seem hopeful. It would be devastating to come this far, only to be let down and not continue. Pray for more follicle growth. Pray for the other ovary to be located. Pray for Dave and Anne and whatever may come next.
Thank you for your support.
I'll give you an update as soon as I know anything.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Drugs while on vacation are a good thing
Thought that title might get your attention.
Christine, who is our donor coordinator, called me up to give me the date for the start of the medication. Anne had ordered all of the medications for the entire process and they came in the mail. April 3 is the start date. Perfect. That is while I'm on vacation. No big deal, I can just take everything with me. As long as I can remember to take it, right? Riiiiiiight.
I forgot the first day, but so did Anne, so it's all good. She started a week earlier than me. It's a drug called Lupron and is used to suppress our own natural cycle. Apparently we were only a week off. It has to be administered by a needle into the stomach on either side of the belly button. It kinda hurts. And once in awhile, I hit a blood vessel or something and end up bruising pretty badly. Here's the proof.
Sorry you had to see that, I really am. I actually have a different bruise right now that is 2 1/2 times bigger than this one. I thought I would spare you and not take another picture of my stomach to put on here. You've seen enough already.
It turns out I looked at the wrong paper when I started the Lupron. I was supposed to be starting at 20 units, not 10. So when I went in for my blood test to check my Estradiol levels, they were way too high. I told Christine it was my fault because I was taking the wrong dosage. She said "I know we talked about doing 20 units". Yes, we did Christine. We talked about a lot of things that day. Remember when I said "information overload"? Well, that was the day she told me how much dosage to start on. Along with me worrying about softball and getting everything done before we left for vacation! (I told you I'd come back to this) But it is no one's fault but my own. It turns out God worked it that way for a reason though. The transfer will happen a week later than it would have, which works out better timing wise.
New instructions- Up the dosage to 20 units and do another blood test in a week.
Oh man, not another blood test. At least I didn't bruise as badly this time.
I think I worried Anne a little. I assured her I would not mess this up anymore!
Christine, who is our donor coordinator, called me up to give me the date for the start of the medication. Anne had ordered all of the medications for the entire process and they came in the mail. April 3 is the start date. Perfect. That is while I'm on vacation. No big deal, I can just take everything with me. As long as I can remember to take it, right? Riiiiiiight.
I forgot the first day, but so did Anne, so it's all good. She started a week earlier than me. It's a drug called Lupron and is used to suppress our own natural cycle. Apparently we were only a week off. It has to be administered by a needle into the stomach on either side of the belly button. It kinda hurts. And once in awhile, I hit a blood vessel or something and end up bruising pretty badly. Here's the proof.
It turns out I looked at the wrong paper when I started the Lupron. I was supposed to be starting at 20 units, not 10. So when I went in for my blood test to check my Estradiol levels, they were way too high. I told Christine it was my fault because I was taking the wrong dosage. She said "I know we talked about doing 20 units". Yes, we did Christine. We talked about a lot of things that day. Remember when I said "information overload"? Well, that was the day she told me how much dosage to start on. Along with me worrying about softball and getting everything done before we left for vacation! (I told you I'd come back to this) But it is no one's fault but my own. It turns out God worked it that way for a reason though. The transfer will happen a week later than it would have, which works out better timing wise.
New instructions- Up the dosage to 20 units and do another blood test in a week.
Oh man, not another blood test. At least I didn't bruise as badly this time.
I think I worried Anne a little. I assured her I would not mess this up anymore!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Sonogram/Mock Transfer
We have a photo to make the post a little more interesting.
So the first appointment after getting the results back from the personality profile was coming in for a new patient appointment with Dr. Young. It was simple enough. They got my measurements (it was interesting learning what my BMI was!) and did a simple exam. Then they sat me down and talked about the entire procedure and any ifs or buts that could occur. I had to sign a few papers and then was sent home with all the paperwork, including a stack that had to be signed and notarized by me and Scott. Talk about information overload! This was a somewhat stressful time for me. I had just started coaching JV softball and worrying about having enough girls to have a team. We were also getting ready to go on vacation for 10 days in the next couple of weeks. (I'm building this up to make a point at a later date).
So Scott and I got all the papers signed and notarized. Next step was a blood test. We made it a family outing and brought everyone along. A lady with a heavy accent was the one that helped us. I don't know how experienced she was but she had to wiggle mine around quite a bit. They needed a lot of blood from me. She filled 5 or 6 different bottles. Scott was hilarious to watch. He tried to put on a brave face because the boys were watching. My elbow bruised so badly, it hurt for 2 weeks afterwards.
The next appointment was a week or so later and was a sonogram and a practice transfer (or mock transfer). Anne came with me so that we could be on the same page and experience everything together. I also thought this was the appointment where I had to take a Valium, but this wasn't the case. She practiced driving all the way there because she was going to be trying to get her driver's license soon. She doesn't want to always be waiting on us to take her where she needs to go, apparently. What's the deal, right? I'm joking, of course.
Both procedures went very quickly and was quite easy. For the sonogram, they filled me up (I'll spare you specifics) with water to check for any problems. Everything checked out great. They used something called a probe and that is what our picture is of. Isn't that nice for us to illustrate that for all of you!
They also did the mock transfer. This is the exact procedure they will use when they do the actual transplant. They did a practice to measure how long of a distance it is to the perfect drop off point. They need to know this ahead of time so it is exact and not a guessing game.
I was nervous for no good reason. Everything went smoothly and was very easy. Poor Anne got an eyeful, but it isn't anything she's not going to see for the birth!
So the first appointment after getting the results back from the personality profile was coming in for a new patient appointment with Dr. Young. It was simple enough. They got my measurements (it was interesting learning what my BMI was!) and did a simple exam. Then they sat me down and talked about the entire procedure and any ifs or buts that could occur. I had to sign a few papers and then was sent home with all the paperwork, including a stack that had to be signed and notarized by me and Scott. Talk about information overload! This was a somewhat stressful time for me. I had just started coaching JV softball and worrying about having enough girls to have a team. We were also getting ready to go on vacation for 10 days in the next couple of weeks. (I'm building this up to make a point at a later date).
So Scott and I got all the papers signed and notarized. Next step was a blood test. We made it a family outing and brought everyone along. A lady with a heavy accent was the one that helped us. I don't know how experienced she was but she had to wiggle mine around quite a bit. They needed a lot of blood from me. She filled 5 or 6 different bottles. Scott was hilarious to watch. He tried to put on a brave face because the boys were watching. My elbow bruised so badly, it hurt for 2 weeks afterwards.
The next appointment was a week or so later and was a sonogram and a practice transfer (or mock transfer). Anne came with me so that we could be on the same page and experience everything together. I also thought this was the appointment where I had to take a Valium, but this wasn't the case. She practiced driving all the way there because she was going to be trying to get her driver's license soon. She doesn't want to always be waiting on us to take her where she needs to go, apparently. What's the deal, right? I'm joking, of course.
Both procedures went very quickly and was quite easy. For the sonogram, they filled me up (I'll spare you specifics) with water to check for any problems. Everything checked out great. They used something called a probe and that is what our picture is of. Isn't that nice for us to illustrate that for all of you!
They also did the mock transfer. This is the exact procedure they will use when they do the actual transplant. They did a practice to measure how long of a distance it is to the perfect drop off point. They need to know this ahead of time so it is exact and not a guessing game.
I was nervous for no good reason. Everything went smoothly and was very easy. Poor Anne got an eyeful, but it isn't anything she's not going to see for the birth!
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