During the 5 weeks in the NICU with Jonathan, I learned about something called Kangaroo Care. This is a technique practiced on a newborn, usually preemies where you hold your baby skin-to-skin for one to several hours. This technique was introduced by a doctor in Colombia to help compensate for lack of resources like incubators and staff. Psychologically, Kangaroo Care allows the mother and child to bond and creates closeness. For me it was about all I could offer him and it helped me as much or more (having a preemie is a life changing experience and if you know me, you know I've really never been afraid of anything - before, that is). I would Kangaroo for upto 4 hours/ day. It was like a mommy pacifier. Clinically, the benefits of Kangaroo Care are many: mother's temperature regulates the baby's temp, helps regulate heart rate and respiratory rates and supports weight gain for early discharge, the list goes on. I think I was the only mom in the NICU who Kangarooed (is that how you spell it?). Unfortunately, many of the women who deliver early have to go back to work while the baby is in the NICU so that they can go on maternity when the baby goes home. I learned all about maternity leave, FMLA and short term disability while I was still under the influence of what ever drug they were giving me for post-op pain. Let me tell you that I was NOT happy. I felt terrible for other mothers who couldn't be at the bedside like I was and I was a bit upset at the "system" - which system, I am not sure, but something is terribly wrong. If you are planning to be pregnant, I would advise you to consider somekind of supplemental insurance, like AFLAC (a mom at the NICU mentioned it to me) so that you are covered in case of any unexpected situation.
Fortunately, I was able to KC. It was such a blessing. I would take that time to pray and think... about what happened and why. I can tell you that EVERY little detail of the days leading up to February 3, as well as the 5 weeks in the hospital is evidence of devine intervention by a merciful and loving God. And as I watch him grow at home, I continue to be thankful, humbled by God's unconditional love.
My FB post on 3/18 - Thanks to all. Although Jonathan was a "normal" premie with little or no complications other than the prematurity - for me he IS a testimony of God's Love. It has also been a test of faith, which at times I failed, but again, God's faithfulness and the angels he sent to comfort and strengthen me (like Edwin, the staff at the NICU and many of you) pulled me through. Thanks for the prayers - they have meant so so much to us. ♥
Here is a song that I love:
What if I Stumble - DC Talk
"Father please forgive me for I cannot compose
The fear that lives within me
Or the rate at which it grows"
Talk to you later,
Rosie
