Your Questions Answered

Jimmie took 30mls by mouth this morning and then 50mls by mouth at noon! Nothing the rest of the day, but that still really lifts are spirits and encourages us that he is still capable and willing every once in a while. We are trying to rejoice in the moment when this happens, but not have unrealistic expectations about it. So even though he hasn't taken anything the rest of the day by mouth we are still grateful and encouraged about those two feedings!

Answering your questions:

Thank you so much for all of your comments on the last post!

As far as him taking the breast??? Rachael has tried that off and on, I just haven't blogged it. He does the same thing with the breast that he does with the bottle. He struggles and fusses and every once in a while will take it. It seems to be the same in his mind as the bottle. Rachael comment and elaborate if you want. I just don't want to call you again (in case you are sleeping) and I forgot to get your input on that question. (-:

I know Rachael has spoon fed and dropper fed Jimmie. She uses those techniques especially to give him his meds because most of the time he won't take the bottle and if you put his meds in the feeding tube it'll clog it up. She has also dripped milk in his mouth like that. He doesn't struggle, but will often not swallow. Definitely doesn't work for him to take a whole feed. She hasn't tried a sippy cup, but maybe she will?? (-:

As far as Rachael's depression- we are taking steps to get her help with that. It does seem to be made much much worse by lack of sleep and at certain times is obviously exsacerbated by hormonal changes. We appreciate those of you that have "been there done that" and have commented and shared yourself and the things that helped you through.

Rachael is a very goal oriented personality and she does not do well floating and struggling through the day with out a plan. She feels that the medical staff has yet to really lay out a plan for Jimmie. For instance she does not want to just go on indefinitely with Jimmie on an NG tube. She has done some research and does not feel comfortable relying on an NG for more than a couple of months. She has many reasons for this that maybe I'll get into in another post. She feels they are just treading water and treating symptoms right now. Maybe that will change with her appointments for Jimmie this week. We'll see . . .

You guys are all so awesome with your care, support and prayers. Our "in real life" friends and family and all of you who are now friends from the "blogosphere". We appreciate you all so much!

Love,
Amber