Happy New Year

Happy New Year everybody!!

Well, 2009 finished on a high note and continued into 2010 for the Brewsters. We were able to ring in the new year with Aisling and have good news to share. First, Aisling has gained more weight! She is now at 1000 grams (approx. 2lbs. 3oz.). We met with the developmental specialist and she told us that Aisling has been showing great signs of self regulation skills for calming herself. She is still breathing room air with a CPAP (slight push of the room air oxygen into her nose). Since Aisling has shown increased stability and progress, she has been moved from the intensive care unit to the intermediate care unit, which is where we hope she'll stay until it's time for her discharge. However, there is still more for her to learn in regards to regulating herself when transitioned from being held, to the incubator, and to feeding. She still has a few drops in her heart rate when she forgets to breath normally. This is all challenging for her and requires a great deal of effort on her part. We, along with the staff, will continue to help her develop these skills so that she can do this independently.

Yesterday, after mommy changed her diaper and while she was feeding, she showed us a tremendous SMILE!!! She has also been opening her eyes more and checking us out. She seems to recognize our voices, touch, and smells and often shows signs of great comfort when we are present.

We wish you all the best in 2010. Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers.

Chuck and Geraldine