6th December 2008

It’s Been A Long Week, Melina’s Second Week in this World 1 reply

Melina’s first full week at home - I can’t believe it’s been a week since we came home on one hand, on the other hand, it has been a long week.  Last week, Melina and I were adjusting to the change of bringing her into this world.  This week, we’ve been adjusting to life at home with one another.  That’s tough in terms of breastfeeding, pumping, changing diapers, still healing within from the c-section, and the need to be “taking it easy”.  What’s unexpected here is a twist of medical knowledge.  I learned on Monday, that Melina has a sacral dimple.  They indicated they wanted to do an ultrasound at Children’s Hospital re spina bifida and sacral dimple - was there a chance of the two relating?

Fast forward to today - the sacral dimple appears to not be a concern, however, there is some concern regarding the length and placement of her spinal cord.  I pray it is not a “tethered cord”, as it was one thing that was mentioned, and the need for an MRI, which is rather invasive considering they’d have to anethestize her just to do the MRI.  This is simply too much for a two-week infant to handle in my opinion, regardless of their resilience.  We’re supposed to be focused on things like feeding and pooping, nothing else more complicated than that.

So, mixed news.  I had hoped for a call from the pediatrician today, but will likely not find out their interpretation of this info until Monday’s consult at 11 a.m.  I’m of the mindset now, not having talked to them, that the MRI can wait until she’s older unless there is some reason to put her through that, that would be life-altering if we did not.

Welcome to Motherhood, you say, eh?  This is more than I expected at this stage.  I’m tired - I’m going to try to sleep on a quiet moment of hers which may last 5 minutes at this hour, or an hour, or two.  Exhaustion is amazing - I’ve fallen asleep during several text message drafts to people, responding to texts I’ve received over the week, checking in on us.

My friend Susan from DC is here this weekend to help cook, clean, take care of baby and I, and make sure I eat ( I think she must be Jewish since she is determined to ensure I eat large servings so I’m able to sustain a breastfeeding diet). 

Say your prayers for your health, and for those who are healthy around you.  We are blessed to be healthy.

Laura

One Response to “It’s Been A Long Week, Melina’s Second Week in this World”

  1. Kristi says:
    December 6th, 2008 at 10:07 am

    Thinking about you and Melina, hope everything will be ok!

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