Monday, October 31, 2011 10:30 am
Happy Halloween! Just a quick update on Morgan, with more to come later...
Morgan continues to do very well. She is still on the C-PAP and tolerating the changes to her settings, which are being ordered by the doctors. Her feedings continue to go well and she is gaining weight. We are so pleased.
Seth and I got to hold her for several hours yesterday. The world stood still. We cherish these moments and can hardly wait to bring her home!
Thank you for keeping up with Morgan. We are so thankful for your prayers and support!
Love,
Elizabeth and Seth McCoin
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Hanging Tight!
Friday, October 28, 2011 9:15pm
Morgan has had a very good day! She is resting, eating and pulling a few stunts! Truly, there is not much to report today! Yea!
The doctor is very pleased with Morgan's progress. He plans to wean her very slowly from the C-PAP in order not to cause too much stress on her little body. That is fine by us! As he explained, Morgan's lungs can continue to grow without stress if she stays on the C-PAP longer. Essentially, the C-PAP will assist, very little, in breathing, yet prevent her from causing undo stress on her critical and healing lungs. We continue to pray for her lungs as they grow new tissue and grow stronger!
Her feedings continue to go well. She is tolerating the milk. Not only is her digestive system working properly, but the calories and nutrition are her biggest ally! This is great news, and an answer to prayer.
Tonight I held her for a little over an hour. I always look forward to these moments. Holding her in our arms and against our chest is so good for our souls! I could hold her all night long. When it was time to put her back in her bed, I turned her towards me and we looked deeply in each others eyes. The moment is indescribable! I wanted to tuck her in my coat and run out the door!
She was so upset that prongs were in her nose during the time I was holding her that she slightly moved her head and they came out. I couldn't see her face, so I didn't know. There was no reason to worry because her rates were perfect and she was breathing on her own. After several of her fits and attempts to put the prongs back in, the nurse decided to put an oxygen mask at her nose and remove the prongs while I held her. Morgan breathed on her on in my arms for over 45 minutes. This is wonderfully encouraging news. The nurse even pointed out what a great job she did and that it was a great sign for her as she weans in the future.
Each day her voice gets stronger and louder. She moans and grunts when she wiggles. She is beginning to cry when hungry or when she is upset. I never thought that the sound of a baby crying was precious! I am wrong... today! I love hearing her noises! I am sure the day will come when I will beg her to quit crying! For now, it is music to my ears!
Thank you for your continued prayers for Morgan. Please pray for her lungs development and healing, her digestive system and nutrition, and the overall growth and development of her entire body! Please keep the caregivers in your prayers, too. Those who take care of little babies, like Morgan, have a very special gift and calling!
With deepest gratitude for your love and support,
Elizabeth and Seth McCoin
Morgan has had a very good day! She is resting, eating and pulling a few stunts! Truly, there is not much to report today! Yea!
The doctor is very pleased with Morgan's progress. He plans to wean her very slowly from the C-PAP in order not to cause too much stress on her little body. That is fine by us! As he explained, Morgan's lungs can continue to grow without stress if she stays on the C-PAP longer. Essentially, the C-PAP will assist, very little, in breathing, yet prevent her from causing undo stress on her critical and healing lungs. We continue to pray for her lungs as they grow new tissue and grow stronger!
Her feedings continue to go well. She is tolerating the milk. Not only is her digestive system working properly, but the calories and nutrition are her biggest ally! This is great news, and an answer to prayer.
Tonight I held her for a little over an hour. I always look forward to these moments. Holding her in our arms and against our chest is so good for our souls! I could hold her all night long. When it was time to put her back in her bed, I turned her towards me and we looked deeply in each others eyes. The moment is indescribable! I wanted to tuck her in my coat and run out the door!
She was so upset that prongs were in her nose during the time I was holding her that she slightly moved her head and they came out. I couldn't see her face, so I didn't know. There was no reason to worry because her rates were perfect and she was breathing on her own. After several of her fits and attempts to put the prongs back in, the nurse decided to put an oxygen mask at her nose and remove the prongs while I held her. Morgan breathed on her on in my arms for over 45 minutes. This is wonderfully encouraging news. The nurse even pointed out what a great job she did and that it was a great sign for her as she weans in the future.
Each day her voice gets stronger and louder. She moans and grunts when she wiggles. She is beginning to cry when hungry or when she is upset. I never thought that the sound of a baby crying was precious! I am wrong... today! I love hearing her noises! I am sure the day will come when I will beg her to quit crying! For now, it is music to my ears!
Thank you for your continued prayers for Morgan. Please pray for her lungs development and healing, her digestive system and nutrition, and the overall growth and development of her entire body! Please keep the caregivers in your prayers, too. Those who take care of little babies, like Morgan, have a very special gift and calling!
With deepest gratitude for your love and support,
Elizabeth and Seth McCoin
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Drum Roll...Please...
Thursday, October 27, 2011 10:45 pm
Okay, folks, we have a very special treat for all of you...but you'll have to wait until the end...
We are so pleased with Morgan's progress and even her doctor had a smile on his face as large and bright as ours.
Morgan has done so well on the C-PAP! All of her settings are so exciting and we are encouraged that her lungs will be able to gain much needed growth. Part of our learning experience has been that a ventilator does so much damage to lungs and does not allow lungs to grow in a healthy way due to the pressure forced into them. Now that she is no longer needing the ventilator, the C-PAP allows her lungs to take a break and relax. We are so thankful for the progress, but realize that we are still years away from totally healthy lungs.
Part of her wonderful progress is weaning off of the nitric oxide. Her current settings are at 3% and we can decrease that by 1% each day. That said, Sunday will be the day we will test her to see how she sustains her breathing without it (fingers crossed).
Today, Morgan had an eye exam and we were very elated with the results. Her eyes are growing "normally" for her age. We were concerned because the high oxygen volume could have created retina problems due to the hyper growth of vessels in her eyes. Ol' Mo dodged a bullet and we are so thankful.
Our next major task, if she passes the "no nitric oxide exam," will be to teach Morgan how to eat. The concepts of sucking, swallowing, etc. are foreign to her at this point. We know that this will be tough on her, but the high-note is that we will have passed other major issues to get to that point. We pray that this new project can start sooner rather than later.
Our sweet daughter continues to be wiggly, testy and, sometimes, downright mad. This is our indicator that she is alert and understanding of her surroundings. If we could let each of you see how red her body gets and her forehead crinkle, you could absolutely see that she is telling what she wants, or what she doesn't want, for that matter.
This leads me to your big surprise...did I mention that our daughter is alert? Take a look, for the first time (drum roll)...here's your first peek at Sweet, Precious, Alert Morgan:
Okay, folks, we have a very special treat for all of you...but you'll have to wait until the end...
We are so pleased with Morgan's progress and even her doctor had a smile on his face as large and bright as ours.
Morgan has done so well on the C-PAP! All of her settings are so exciting and we are encouraged that her lungs will be able to gain much needed growth. Part of our learning experience has been that a ventilator does so much damage to lungs and does not allow lungs to grow in a healthy way due to the pressure forced into them. Now that she is no longer needing the ventilator, the C-PAP allows her lungs to take a break and relax. We are so thankful for the progress, but realize that we are still years away from totally healthy lungs.
Part of her wonderful progress is weaning off of the nitric oxide. Her current settings are at 3% and we can decrease that by 1% each day. That said, Sunday will be the day we will test her to see how she sustains her breathing without it (fingers crossed).
Today, Morgan had an eye exam and we were very elated with the results. Her eyes are growing "normally" for her age. We were concerned because the high oxygen volume could have created retina problems due to the hyper growth of vessels in her eyes. Ol' Mo dodged a bullet and we are so thankful.
Our next major task, if she passes the "no nitric oxide exam," will be to teach Morgan how to eat. The concepts of sucking, swallowing, etc. are foreign to her at this point. We know that this will be tough on her, but the high-note is that we will have passed other major issues to get to that point. We pray that this new project can start sooner rather than later.
Our sweet daughter continues to be wiggly, testy and, sometimes, downright mad. This is our indicator that she is alert and understanding of her surroundings. If we could let each of you see how red her body gets and her forehead crinkle, you could absolutely see that she is telling what she wants, or what she doesn't want, for that matter.
This leads me to your big surprise...did I mention that our daughter is alert? Take a look, for the first time (drum roll)...here's your first peek at Sweet, Precious, Alert Morgan:
You have to love those eyes, those sweet lips that will kiss my cheeks for many years and those arms that simply can't stay still (even notice the hair product...she's already fashionable). She is trying so hard to smile in this picture. That little monkey has stolen every ounce of me and we can't wait to watch her grow up! I'm usually a little more composed, but look at that picture! She is adorable! Who could say less? Of course, all babies look like aliens, but this is MY alien.
This is so special because this is the first time we have seen her without any medical supplies and/or equipment impeding her adorable face. You can just see the position of her arms is like she is about to just throw them in the air and cheer! She is doing so well that she sustained no assistance during this time for about 15 minutes. Seeing her like this was the first time I'd found the end of a rainbow. This has to be the cutest pot of gold I have ever seen...think I'm biased? Maybe a little...
Please lift prayers of thanks for those who have helped our daughter progress so, so much. Those at St. Vincent's and, now, at UAB will forever hold our debt. Continue to pray for all of them. Also pray that Morgan's little body will continue to grow big and strong.
We look forward to cherishing many jeweled moments like this with our daughter and it will be impossible to not remember all of you and your prayers for her. We thank you from our undeserving souls. Thank you, thank you.
Seth and Elizabeth McCoin
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Prodding Along
Wednesday, October 26, 2011 11:15 pm
Morgan had another fantastic day today. Everything seems to be going as planned. She is doing so well.
The UAB staff continues to wean Morgan off of the nitric oxide, which has proven to be such an amazing help to Morgan, along with her surgery. This is great news because it means that precious Morgan is healing. Further, she began to receive full feedings today. Her tummy is accepting her nurishment well, which is obviously crucial to her gaining weight and growing big and strong.
She received a bath today and Elizabeth was able to capture a ten-minute video of our princess on her phone. When she showed it to me, I was in shock. Morgan's face was completely visible. She maintained breathing without the C-PAP the entire time, although it was replaced after all of her moving around. I simply can not stop watching it over and over. She looked so good.
Please pray that she continues this amazing path. We are so grateful for each improvement. Also continue praying for the team at UAB that is helping her heal.
Let's hope that these posts can continue to be short, because that means she will still be doing GREAT!
On a final note, The Raiders won in a double-overtime thriller. Michael made a game-saving tackle, along with a great block to spring the game-winning touchdown, among other great plays. He will play in the Super Bowl on Sunday.
Many thanks to all of you,
Seth and Elizabeth McCoin
Morgan had another fantastic day today. Everything seems to be going as planned. She is doing so well.
The UAB staff continues to wean Morgan off of the nitric oxide, which has proven to be such an amazing help to Morgan, along with her surgery. This is great news because it means that precious Morgan is healing. Further, she began to receive full feedings today. Her tummy is accepting her nurishment well, which is obviously crucial to her gaining weight and growing big and strong.
She received a bath today and Elizabeth was able to capture a ten-minute video of our princess on her phone. When she showed it to me, I was in shock. Morgan's face was completely visible. She maintained breathing without the C-PAP the entire time, although it was replaced after all of her moving around. I simply can not stop watching it over and over. She looked so good.
Please pray that she continues this amazing path. We are so grateful for each improvement. Also continue praying for the team at UAB that is helping her heal.
Let's hope that these posts can continue to be short, because that means she will still be doing GREAT!
On a final note, The Raiders won in a double-overtime thriller. Michael made a game-saving tackle, along with a great block to spring the game-winning touchdown, among other great plays. He will play in the Super Bowl on Sunday.
Many thanks to all of you,
Seth and Elizabeth McCoin
Overwhelming moment...
Wednesday, October 26, 2011 2:53 am
All of those seeking an update for our precious Morgan, please, scroll down, however, this writing is for Houston, who will always be a part of, what is, "Our Miracle Morgan."
Later today, I will be attending a football game between boys that are eight years old. My allegiance falls to, "The Raiders." The boy in mind is the second smallest player in his league, at a stout weight of 53 pounds. He plays every play of every game and he makes every movement with a force. He is an inspiration to all of us. He plays with fire and he means it.
I attended his first game with the notion that most of the kids playing on the field would shy away from the actual game and the physical attributes required, but this one child has stolen my heart and changed my perspective. Yes, he cries on the way to halftime if a bigger kid pushes him down, but he ALWAYS returns for the second half. He hits hard, he spits and he would cuss, if his parents would let him. He's a fighter, like Morgan, however, he pokes at my heart, more, for Houston. As I proceed, please keep in mind the Biblical reference that he provides for me, as our dear Houston did the same. This 53 pound monster has provided so much therapy for me that he, absolutely, deserves his credit due. I can't wait to see "Little Michael" take the field and, win or lose, simply make me smile.
The fight in this kid has reminded me so much of Houston's four days with us. Houston fought, scrapped and clawed for a second half he could never play. However, he provided an amazing lesson of hope and promise, in his defeat.
Excuse me for sharing an overwhelming story as Houston's father and I will, now, get to the point.
As you will see in Morgan's update, there is a referenced verse. I wanted to get it right, rather than relying upon memory. That said, I retreated from my downstairs office and made my way upstairs to retrieve my bible, from the bedside. Our dining room threshold could not be ten steps from my destination. In those steps, I was merely attempting to make sure that Morgan's bible reference was accurate, but as I crossed the threshold, Houston shot through me. I wondered if his gravestone should simply read his name and birth/death dates or if I should honor him with a reference from the fountain that sustains us.
As I entered our bedroom, I called for Elizabeth and asked her preference. I had no particular verse in mind, but wondered if we should choose one to place next to his name. If we chose to do so, I understood the magnitude and realized the importance, which applies pressure from the perspective of realizing that any verse, or reference, chosen for such a monument was permanent and never to be taken back.
Elizabeth retreated from her nightly proceedings to answer my call, "Elizabeth!" As she entered the room, I had already begun to open my bible before asking the question. As I, simply, asked if she would like a verse referenced on Houston's gravestone, the pages flopped open to a verse, already underlined. My curiosity forced my eyes upon a moment that will never be etched from my mind. While I was, initially, searching for James 1:12, the verse before me was Titus 2:2, which reads:
"Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and endurance."
WOW...wow. It was one of those moments that God, absolutely, took over. I will not be so repetitive as to re-portray my hopes and dreams for Houston, but I will tell you that I was completely floored by this moment.
As adults, we are able to learn so much from Houston and "Little Michael." While Michael is able to run and play a game so dear to my heart, Houston fought a battle, I or, none of us have known. It is an honor for me to hide my tears behind my sunglasses and watch Michael play a game My Houston never could...especially after this verse falling into my lap. It is absolute therapy.
Needless to say, Elizabeth and I are blessed and we are, both, finding ways to cope. With stories like this, how could anyone go wrong? We are constantly embraced and we feel so much love from all of those surrounding us, near and far.
I hope that this post is a simple reminder that if you keep your chin up and your head on a swivel...you will find the most amazing moments where you least expect them. We are doing that ourselves and our greatest wish is to share that with you. Remember that the greatest treasures can come in a 500 pound package, a 53 pound package or a 2 pound, 1 ounce package (embellished with a precious 1 pound 5 ounce [Morgan] package).
GO RAIDERS,
Seth McCoin
All of those seeking an update for our precious Morgan, please, scroll down, however, this writing is for Houston, who will always be a part of, what is, "Our Miracle Morgan."
Later today, I will be attending a football game between boys that are eight years old. My allegiance falls to, "The Raiders." The boy in mind is the second smallest player in his league, at a stout weight of 53 pounds. He plays every play of every game and he makes every movement with a force. He is an inspiration to all of us. He plays with fire and he means it.
I attended his first game with the notion that most of the kids playing on the field would shy away from the actual game and the physical attributes required, but this one child has stolen my heart and changed my perspective. Yes, he cries on the way to halftime if a bigger kid pushes him down, but he ALWAYS returns for the second half. He hits hard, he spits and he would cuss, if his parents would let him. He's a fighter, like Morgan, however, he pokes at my heart, more, for Houston. As I proceed, please keep in mind the Biblical reference that he provides for me, as our dear Houston did the same. This 53 pound monster has provided so much therapy for me that he, absolutely, deserves his credit due. I can't wait to see "Little Michael" take the field and, win or lose, simply make me smile.
The fight in this kid has reminded me so much of Houston's four days with us. Houston fought, scrapped and clawed for a second half he could never play. However, he provided an amazing lesson of hope and promise, in his defeat.
Excuse me for sharing an overwhelming story as Houston's father and I will, now, get to the point.
As you will see in Morgan's update, there is a referenced verse. I wanted to get it right, rather than relying upon memory. That said, I retreated from my downstairs office and made my way upstairs to retrieve my bible, from the bedside. Our dining room threshold could not be ten steps from my destination. In those steps, I was merely attempting to make sure that Morgan's bible reference was accurate, but as I crossed the threshold, Houston shot through me. I wondered if his gravestone should simply read his name and birth/death dates or if I should honor him with a reference from the fountain that sustains us.
As I entered our bedroom, I called for Elizabeth and asked her preference. I had no particular verse in mind, but wondered if we should choose one to place next to his name. If we chose to do so, I understood the magnitude and realized the importance, which applies pressure from the perspective of realizing that any verse, or reference, chosen for such a monument was permanent and never to be taken back.
Elizabeth retreated from her nightly proceedings to answer my call, "Elizabeth!" As she entered the room, I had already begun to open my bible before asking the question. As I, simply, asked if she would like a verse referenced on Houston's gravestone, the pages flopped open to a verse, already underlined. My curiosity forced my eyes upon a moment that will never be etched from my mind. While I was, initially, searching for James 1:12, the verse before me was Titus 2:2, which reads:
"Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and endurance."
WOW...wow. It was one of those moments that God, absolutely, took over. I will not be so repetitive as to re-portray my hopes and dreams for Houston, but I will tell you that I was completely floored by this moment.
As adults, we are able to learn so much from Houston and "Little Michael." While Michael is able to run and play a game so dear to my heart, Houston fought a battle, I or, none of us have known. It is an honor for me to hide my tears behind my sunglasses and watch Michael play a game My Houston never could...especially after this verse falling into my lap. It is absolute therapy.
Needless to say, Elizabeth and I are blessed and we are, both, finding ways to cope. With stories like this, how could anyone go wrong? We are constantly embraced and we feel so much love from all of those surrounding us, near and far.
I hope that this post is a simple reminder that if you keep your chin up and your head on a swivel...you will find the most amazing moments where you least expect them. We are doing that ourselves and our greatest wish is to share that with you. Remember that the greatest treasures can come in a 500 pound package, a 53 pound package or a 2 pound, 1 ounce package (embellished with a precious 1 pound 5 ounce [Morgan] package).
GO RAIDERS,
Seth McCoin
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Our Addiction
Wednesday, October 26, 12:45 am
James 1:12 (NIV)
"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
This reference is present on my father's gravestone. I am so proud that our Morgan is taking after her grandfather, Jerry McCoin, Sr. All of her actions are the spitting-image of the tall, lanky father I remember. She continues to "act up" in a hospital bed, she tells everyone around her what to do (without speaking), and she is, absolutely, running the show. To say that she is a pistol, after her grandfather's heart, is the broadest understatement this meager man could ever make. She is persevering, standing the test and earning a crown that outsizes her tiny body.
Our sweet Morgan continues to progress. If I were to sit here and explain every number, percentage and chart, let me say, you would find yourself in an abyss of boredom and drooling. May I, simply, say that, "Mo is rockin' out!" She is doing so well. It must be a direct result of her father printing t-shirts that read, "GO MO GO." We are so thankful for her progress and her willingness to improve. Her mother and I can hardly stand our excitement. She just seems to get better everyday. I have made my ritual to listen to the most inspiring symphonies as I write this blog because any I choose have become the song of sweet Morgan's story. Simply put, if it is an orchestrated, upbeat tune that you have in your rememberance, let it play in your heart as you read. My current selection is "Simple Gifts," as Morgan, truly, "fits the bill." I have become addicted to this moment each evening, but not as addicted to holding this precious gift in my arms, nor seeing her in her mother's arms.
As every Tuesday, we received another delicious meal from dear friends. We, again, shared a special moment with those who care so deeply for our daughter. After our happy indulgence, we made our trek to UAB. Down the street, up onto the Red Mountain Expressway, down the exit and into the parking lot as we grab, yet another, tax-deductible parking ticket (her father is an accountant, so just bear with me).
We entered the building, pranced onto the elevator and strolled down the hallway in glee, knowing of the wonderful reports we had received all day. We were not in her room for two minutes before Elizabeth inquired, "Will we get to hold her tonight?" Morgan's precious nurse quickly responded, "YES!" The responsive look upon any mother's face could have melted a glacier, especially Elizabeth's.
While Elizabeth held Morgan, our sweet child gazed into her mother's eyes. We have not seen our daughter's eyes open for extended periods of time, however, every second she kept her eyelids open was a valued moment. During the hour and forty-five minute bonding, Morgan stayed very alert and cognizant of all that was happening around her. Through these precious moments, Morgan was fed through her feeding tube. She seemed to react with each drip that reached her tiny tummy. She replicated our swallowing motion and licked the tubed as if she relished every drop. Through her slight and subtle movements, we were able to focus on the unbelievable miracle this child is becoming. She's a "premi...," she's not supposed to pick up on things quickly, but she is re-writing the books. Understand that every effort we take is to recreate a "womb-like" experience for this little angel. Remember, she wasn't "supposed" to be born for another seven weeks, but do not forget all that she has taught us with her seven weeks wth us. She is strong-willed, content and, oh, so precious. She provided us with a major moment tonight.
As stated, her feedings are going extremely well. We will soon be able to move on to other organs in her body that need attending to. Her blood-pressure, eyes, liver and kidneys are now coming into the picture, simply because her lungs and heart are doing so well. We are not forgetting her brain, which will always be the one organ that cannot be repaired if it endures any damage. However we feel so strongly, at this point, that any developmental issues will, eventually, be "dust behind the carriage," especially knowing that Jerry, Sr. shared a peice of his heart with his resilient grandaughter.
Needless to say we are beaming with joy for our precious child. She continues to amaze us in every moment. She has become our absolute addiction. The feeling of her soft, furry skin against our own is indescribable. Her improvements and efforts encourage us with every wiggle. We are so pleased and our hearts have melted into rivers.
Thank you all for keeping up with our "Simple Gift." I shed modesty as I say that she absolutely deserves all of our thoughts and prayers. She will grow to be a beacon in all of us and all of us will have a special hand in making sure.
With amazing and deep gratitude,
Seth and Elizabeth McCoin
James 1:12 (NIV)
"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
This reference is present on my father's gravestone. I am so proud that our Morgan is taking after her grandfather, Jerry McCoin, Sr. All of her actions are the spitting-image of the tall, lanky father I remember. She continues to "act up" in a hospital bed, she tells everyone around her what to do (without speaking), and she is, absolutely, running the show. To say that she is a pistol, after her grandfather's heart, is the broadest understatement this meager man could ever make. She is persevering, standing the test and earning a crown that outsizes her tiny body.
Our sweet Morgan continues to progress. If I were to sit here and explain every number, percentage and chart, let me say, you would find yourself in an abyss of boredom and drooling. May I, simply, say that, "Mo is rockin' out!" She is doing so well. It must be a direct result of her father printing t-shirts that read, "GO MO GO." We are so thankful for her progress and her willingness to improve. Her mother and I can hardly stand our excitement. She just seems to get better everyday. I have made my ritual to listen to the most inspiring symphonies as I write this blog because any I choose have become the song of sweet Morgan's story. Simply put, if it is an orchestrated, upbeat tune that you have in your rememberance, let it play in your heart as you read. My current selection is "Simple Gifts," as Morgan, truly, "fits the bill." I have become addicted to this moment each evening, but not as addicted to holding this precious gift in my arms, nor seeing her in her mother's arms.
As every Tuesday, we received another delicious meal from dear friends. We, again, shared a special moment with those who care so deeply for our daughter. After our happy indulgence, we made our trek to UAB. Down the street, up onto the Red Mountain Expressway, down the exit and into the parking lot as we grab, yet another, tax-deductible parking ticket (her father is an accountant, so just bear with me).
We entered the building, pranced onto the elevator and strolled down the hallway in glee, knowing of the wonderful reports we had received all day. We were not in her room for two minutes before Elizabeth inquired, "Will we get to hold her tonight?" Morgan's precious nurse quickly responded, "YES!" The responsive look upon any mother's face could have melted a glacier, especially Elizabeth's.
While Elizabeth held Morgan, our sweet child gazed into her mother's eyes. We have not seen our daughter's eyes open for extended periods of time, however, every second she kept her eyelids open was a valued moment. During the hour and forty-five minute bonding, Morgan stayed very alert and cognizant of all that was happening around her. Through these precious moments, Morgan was fed through her feeding tube. She seemed to react with each drip that reached her tiny tummy. She replicated our swallowing motion and licked the tubed as if she relished every drop. Through her slight and subtle movements, we were able to focus on the unbelievable miracle this child is becoming. She's a "premi...," she's not supposed to pick up on things quickly, but she is re-writing the books. Understand that every effort we take is to recreate a "womb-like" experience for this little angel. Remember, she wasn't "supposed" to be born for another seven weeks, but do not forget all that she has taught us with her seven weeks wth us. She is strong-willed, content and, oh, so precious. She provided us with a major moment tonight.
As stated, her feedings are going extremely well. We will soon be able to move on to other organs in her body that need attending to. Her blood-pressure, eyes, liver and kidneys are now coming into the picture, simply because her lungs and heart are doing so well. We are not forgetting her brain, which will always be the one organ that cannot be repaired if it endures any damage. However we feel so strongly, at this point, that any developmental issues will, eventually, be "dust behind the carriage," especially knowing that Jerry, Sr. shared a peice of his heart with his resilient grandaughter.
Needless to say we are beaming with joy for our precious child. She continues to amaze us in every moment. She has become our absolute addiction. The feeling of her soft, furry skin against our own is indescribable. Her improvements and efforts encourage us with every wiggle. We are so pleased and our hearts have melted into rivers.
Thank you all for keeping up with our "Simple Gift." I shed modesty as I say that she absolutely deserves all of our thoughts and prayers. She will grow to be a beacon in all of us and all of us will have a special hand in making sure.
With amazing and deep gratitude,
Seth and Elizabeth McCoin
Monday, October 24, 2011
Mischievious Morgan
Monday, October 24, 2011 10:30 pm
Morgan is still doing very well. She continues to be on the CPAP and she is constantly improving. We are so thankful.
There is not much change today, but the little fighter proved her personality once again. She has initiated the UAB team to her antics. While her stats were absolutely fabulous, her sweet nurse went to check on another baby in The Unit. After a short time away, the nurse returned to find Morgan continuing to do well, except something didn't seem right. The nurse looked down and the little stinker had yanked the prongs out of her nose...SHE WAS BREATHING ALL BY HERSELF! After a quick reprimand, the prongs returned to their rightful place. Just to prove a point, the booger waited a little while and then pulled out her feeding tube. This little princess knows what she wants and she is definitely not afraid to let us know whatever it may be at that moment.
We are so proud of our daughter. As we pray for Morgan's health and continued improvement, please pray for the UAB staff that is taking such great care of her.
Thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers.
Seth and Elizabeth McCoin
Morgan is still doing very well. She continues to be on the CPAP and she is constantly improving. We are so thankful.
There is not much change today, but the little fighter proved her personality once again. She has initiated the UAB team to her antics. While her stats were absolutely fabulous, her sweet nurse went to check on another baby in The Unit. After a short time away, the nurse returned to find Morgan continuing to do well, except something didn't seem right. The nurse looked down and the little stinker had yanked the prongs out of her nose...SHE WAS BREATHING ALL BY HERSELF! After a quick reprimand, the prongs returned to their rightful place. Just to prove a point, the booger waited a little while and then pulled out her feeding tube. This little princess knows what she wants and she is definitely not afraid to let us know whatever it may be at that moment.
We are so proud of our daughter. As we pray for Morgan's health and continued improvement, please pray for the UAB staff that is taking such great care of her.
Thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers.
Seth and Elizabeth McCoin
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)