At almost 24 weeks’ gestation, the babies have reached a point of theoretical viability. Therefore, if they were born now, they would have a fair chance of surviving. Given another month, they would almost certainly survive, but with some uncertainty as to the long-term effects of their prematurity. Given two more months, their chances of survival are nearly 100% and the long-term effects minimal.
Since I continue to do well without any restrictions or bed rest, we are hopeful that we can hold off on delivery for a couple more months. Even should complications begin to arise, my doctors have amazed me with all that they are typically able to do to “buy” some time–even weeks–before delivery is imminent.
The topic of the babies’ birth has been on my mind a bit this week, largely because we toured the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the hospital. Several years ago I did an internship at this same facility, but they have since redesigned it. I was struck by not only the changes to the facility, but the changes in our lives over the last five years to where our children will now be patients in the unit. There was one particular boy, born at 25 weeks’ gestation, who was so covered in medical equipment (feeding tubes, breathing tubes, wires), that I could barely see any untouched or unblemished skin. I know it will be a hard day when I leave that unit and my children do not.
A day later, I was back at the hospital for a tour of the maternity unit. I realize now it was a mistake to partake in a general tour. I am not a first-time mother, I am not going to arrive at the hospital in labor ready to deliver a full-term baby, and my babies will not be laid on my chest after birth and allowed to stay in my room or the newborn nursery. I wanted to be familiar with the hospital unit and the policies, but I should have arranged for a private tour (like we did with the NICU), because I left the tour disappointed and sad about how different my situation is from what is “normal.”
Nonetheless, we have access to the best facilities and medical professionals in the region…10 minutes from our house. I am healthy and so are the babies. We have a lot to be thankful for. The next few months will challenge us on all levels. But, I truly believe in time–perhaps even years down the line–we’ll enjoy our large family and the unique blessings it brings.
Yes, you will enjoy your large family!! That I can promise you! I loved having lots of people around growing up!
It may not be the same “moment” you had with Ellie, but you will still have a “moment” with each of your boys..no matter what the circumstances. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys. I wish you a healthy couple of months to come, and am excited for you!
Thanks for your thoughts, Lindsay. Your family is regularly in our thoughts and prayers, and I hope that even though these circumstances are different/unexpected, you will find tremendous joy and peace through them all.
I love you my friend.
Thanks for being open about your feelings. We are praying for at least a 32 week pregnancy and stay positive- you are the perfect person to carry, love, and mother these triplets. I have no doubt that you will fall into this role the way God intends for you to, and that these three boys are going to fill your heart like you can’t even imagine. I’d love to plan to come to visit and help out, just let me know when and I am there~ ready to hold, feed, change whatever you need:)