Make Steven Pay!!

I set a goal of $500 when I started collecting money for the March for Babies Walk. Steven has pledged to match that $500 goal if I meet it. I'm at $220 so far. If everybody who checks this blog gave just $10, we would not only meet the goal, but exceed it. Take a few minutes and use the button on the sidebar to give to a worthy cause.

Thanks!
-jennifer

Like a Kangaroo

Some super sweet pictures of Champ and Kiki doing Kangaroo Care! I bet he feels much better now that he has a blue baby hat and not that hat with the pink letters on it!!

Did you vote yet in the "Guess when Rocco will weigh 4 lbs" Contest?? If not, there's still time- see the post below and get your vote in!

Also, a HUGE Thank You to Kelli, Bryan and Nico for their pledge to March of Dimes. Anyone who wants to sponsor me can use the link on the right sidebar. You can make your donation online, and that way we don't have to worry about doing checks, or cash or whatever. Our Aultman Walk Team will be selling raffle tickets, t-shirts, lollipops, and baked goods as a fundraiser for March of Dimes if anyone is interested. We are also a corporate sponsor for the Walk this year, and will have a big tent on the day of the walk- May 10th. Hopefully the weather is nicer by then. I will have pictures, and let you know how everything goes!

More to come later...Keep Visiting!!

Your Guess is as Good as Mine...

Rocco reached the 3 pound mark today (3 lbs, 1.7oz to be exact)!

Therefore, today will mark the start of the First (but probably not last) "Champ's Fight" Blog Contest.

Guess which day Rocco will reach 4 pounds.

You can participate by clicking on "Comments" (at the end of this post) and leaving your answer. Make sure you leave your name and email if you're not a registered user, otherwise you won't be able to win. Only one entry per reader. "Price is Right" rules apply- closest to the actual date without going over. If more than one person guesses the correct date, the first guess will be the winner. So get your guess in early!

Awesome prize for the winner, along with worldwide notoriety. Well, at least blogwide notoriety. And the awesome-ness of the prize is subjective, too. But I digress...

Play along, join in, be a sport! We know you've been reading, now let us know you're following along! Looking forward to everyone's guesses!

Did you notice...

I posted this picture before, but only today did I realize that Rocco is doing the "I Love You" sign in sign language with his right hand. Did you notice?

Everything is continuing to go well in Miami. Rocco's weight is up to 2lbs. 15oz. He is getting all his feedings by tube, so he no longer needs nutrition in an IV. Kiki and Steven now get to hold him. They hold him in a special way that preemies like being held called "Kangaroo Care." Parents hold their baby on their chest, skin-to-skin. When they do this regularly, the baby will grow better, and sleep better, and their heart rate and breathing improve.

The next few weeks will hopefully be filled with lots of growth and hopefully no setbacks. In about 2 or 3 weeks, Rocco should be ready to try taking a bottle or nursing.

Coming up tomorrow...Rocco's First Blog Contest. Visit tomorrow to join in!

Sorry, I've been lacking in my updates lately.



Rocco continues to do well. He is having some "ups and downs" that are not uncommon with preemies. He has times where he works a little harder to breathe, and other times where he forgets to breathe altogether.



He also was nearing a half an ounce on his feedings when his tummy needed a little rest and they backed his feedings up to just under a teaspoon again.



Kiki was released from the hospital on Monday, so she's getting back to some sort of "normal" with Steven and Olivia. They were trying to do some things this week for Easter like going to see the Easter Bunny and finding an Easter Egg Hunt at the park. My guess is Olivia is happy to have both her mommy and her daddy with her.



Here's a little video of Olivia with a singing dog from Steve and Jane Cates...




She seems to be enjoying all the special treats in the care packages from home!!

I'll try to get some video of Rocco up here for everyone to see. Until then, here's some pictures to wet your appetite...

I'll try to get some pictures up this weekend or early next week of the family and the Easter festivities. Thanks for visiting!!

Weekend Update

Look, Ma- No Tubes!!

Yummy in my Tummy

It's been a good weekend for Rocco. In case you missed it, he was taken off the ventilator to some nasal CPAP, then off the CPAP to nasal cannula. They could be trying him off the nasal cannula as soon as yesterday. Rocco also had some NICU "firsts" this weekend- his first blood transfusion, his first "new house" (he moved from a warming bed into an isolette), and his first feeding. The road has been fairly smooth so far. God is GOOD!!

We also learned this weekend that Kiki's placenta grew an infection called MRSA. This is probably why her water broke so early. MRSA is called a "super bug" because it's resistant to the most common antibiotics that are used to treat infections, and often by the time the doctors realize that an infection is MRSA, it has become overwhelming and can be fatal. Kiki did not have this infection in her blood stream, nor does Rocco have the infection in his body. The best the doctors can figure is that the infection was just starting when Kiki delivered, and the delivery probably saved her and Rocco's life. The Lord works in mysterious ways. Again, God is GOOD!!

Kiki is leaving the hospital today. She got teary just thinking about it when I was on the phone with her. I'm sure it will be a hard day for her. Please keep her in your prayers.

That's all for now. Steven sent some video home this weekend, so I should have some clips up this week, if I can find time to get them downloaded with the holiday weekend coming up. Keep visiting!

My Future's So Bright...

...I Gotta Wear Shades!!

Some recent pictures of Rocco. He's "glowing" blue because he's under some lights for jaundice. Premature babies are prone to jaundice because their liver doesn't work as well as it should because it's immature. They usually need to be under the bright lights for a couple days. Rocco is wearing "sunglasses" to protect his eyes from the light.



Also, you now can see his breathing tube is GONE! He's off the ventilator since Friday, and the tubing on his face is called Nasal CPAP. It blows some air into his lungs to keep them from collapsing. I talked with Steven this morning, and he actually came off the CPAP this morning and is now just on a little bit of oxygen in his nose through smaller, softer tubing.



He is also getting a blood transfusion today. This is not uncommon with very small babies because they are having a lot of labwork done, and can't make new blood cells as fast as the doctors need to take blood for labs.

I'll take the T-bone, medium rare, and...

(Yes, Auntie Jennifer is having a lot of fun with Photoshop, thankyouverymuch!)

The big news today is he is going to start getting milk in his tummy. Just a teeny-tiny bit- 0.5ml. As a reference, a teaspoon has 5ml. So he's getting 1/10th of a teaspoon. This is great news though, because it will get his tummy ready for bigger amounts. He won't be able to nurse or try bottles yet (that's probably about 4 weeks away) but they will feed him through a tube from his mouth or nose into his stomach.

Kiki is continuing to recover and is feeling better. She will be at the hospital through the weekend. She needs to drink some sugary juice, eat some fiber, and take her Ducolax- if you catch my drift. If you ever want to hear one her "most embarassing moments" stories, ask about the adventures with the bedside commode during her hospital stay. I will spare you the details, but we can all PRAISE THE LORD that she's allowed up to the bathroom now!!

That's about it for now. The good prayers and thoughts are working for Rocco and Co. Thanks to everyone who is following his progress! Keep visiting!

Support a Cause...

May 10th is the March of Dimes "March for Babies" in our area. It is a 5-mile walk at Lock 3 in Akron to raise funds to help support research about premature birth. More information can be found at marchofdimes.com.

For friends (and family) of Steven and Kiki who don't know me, I'm Steven's sister-in-law. I work as a neonatal nurse practitioner in the NICU at Aultman Hospital in Canton. I take care of tiny and/or sick babies every day. I thought I understood what a family goes through when they have a premature birth. I really had no idea.

A group of nurses from my work has walked every year for March of Dimes in support of the babies we take care of every day in the NICU. I haven't walked with them in the past. This year is different.

I (and maybe my kids) are going to walk in honor of Kiki and Rocco. We will support the March of Dimes research and cause, and pray that my children don't have to experience preterm birth when they have their own babies, or that if they do, there are organizations such as the March of Dimes to support them through their journey.

I hope that some of my readers might like to donate, or walk with me. Please e-mail me if you are interested in supporting a good cause- jennifer@norch.com.

Breathing Easy...

Rocco came off the ventilator last night, and is now breathing on his own with a little extra air from CPAP that holds his lungs open between breaths so they don't collapse down. He's getting some nutrition in an IV, but will probably start getting milk in his tummy in the next few days. He's doing remarkably well for being so small and so early.

While Kiki will probably leave the hospital over the weekend, Rocco will be there until at least the end of April. These next weeks, he will be busy growing stronger lungs and getting bigger and gaining weight.

Grandma and Papa Norch are headed down to Miami. They are driving, so they should get there sometime tonight and then will fly back on Sunday.

I will hopefully have some more pictures and maybe even some video on the website soon. Looking foward to sharing any news about Rocco with everyone! Keep visiting!

And they shall call him...

Rocco James Norch

A perfect baby beneath all the tubes and wires...

The latest update...Rocco is doing well, he is not needing any extra oxygen, but still on the ventilator. The neonatal doctors think he may be able to come off the ventilator either later today or tomorrow.

I hope you're not intimidated by the pictures above. In the lower one, you see the breathing tube in his mouth, a smaller tube that goes into his tummy to drain air out (lets him "burp"). The red, white and black wires on his chest measure his heart rate and breathing, the shiny foil heart holds a probe on that reads his temperature. There are two IV lines in his belly button, using the vessels that used to run through the umbilical cord. Also, on his foot is a sensor that measures the oxygen in his blood. Beneath all that is a perfect little boy whose world is already filled with love!!

More to come later!! Keep visiting!

Isn't He Adorable??

Welcome to the World, Baby Boy Norch!!

2lbs, 10oz.

15 inches long

Congratulations Steven and Kiki, and Big Sister Olivia!!

"Sometimes," said Pooh, "The smallest things take up the most room in your heart."

More pictures later! Keep visiting!

He Has Arrived...

I just talked with Steven.

Baby Boy Norch was born tonight by c-section.

He is in the NICU getting worked on. He got good Apgar scores of 9 and 9, which means he wasn't too stressed just before and right after he was born.
His heart rate is stable. He has a breathing tube and got some medication to help his lungs work better. He's on a ventilator for now. He also has some IV lines in his belly button that they will use to monitor him, give him some nutrition, and draw labwork from.

Kiki is doing fine. She had some bleeding, but she is stable and they were finishing up the surgery.

I don't have any details aside from this medical "stuff"-
No name, weight, length, time of birth or anything else.

I heard he's cute though :) Apparently he gets that from his mommy!

More details and pictures to come! Keep visiting!

Baby On The Way...

Baby Champ is being born as I type...

Please send good thoughts and prayers toward Miami.

Update to follow.

-jennifer

Change of Plans

Just a quick update. Another ultrasound today. Kiki's fluid measurement is down to 3, or maybe 5. Normal is higher than 8. The doctors are starting to be more concerned about the baby. He is showing some slow heartrates on the monitor, and Kiki is having some cramping.

The range of time from when a mom's water breaks until delivery of the baby is generally within 48 hours. Some moms deliver within minutes, and a few can go for weeks before having the baby. Kiki's doctor says his "gut feeling" is that Champ will be born within a week.

Needless to say, Steven has cancelled his travel plans to come home this weekend. When I talked to him tonight, they were waiting to talk with the perinatologist to figure out what exactly the plan is going to be for the upcoming week. It sounds as if the next ultrasound will be important to determine how long they will wait.

Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

A Room with a View

Good news today...Kiki gets a room with a view!

Today, Kiki is moving from the Labor and Delivery Intensive Care area to the Maternity floor where she'll be allowed to have visitors and have a much better view. She will still be on bedrest, and not really allowed out of bed except to use a bedside commode (I know, you're all so jealous!!) but I'm sure the change of scenery will lift her spirits a little bit.

Above is what I imagine her view is like. This is the actual Biscayne Bay in Miami. I haven't been to her hospital personally. I bet she could buy a condo with this same view though and live there the rest of her life, for what its costing her to stay in the hospital for the next 6 weeks. Oh, the sacrifices these children demand of us!!

Steven and Kiki really enjoyed the video, and really miss everyone. Yes, even you Ben. It was nice for them to see some familiar faces from home. Kiki's family was impressed that we personally knew Jesus, but then Steven explained that "Jesus" was our friend Benji. I bet he gets that alot.

Steven will be making his first trip back to Ohio at the end of this week to stay for a couple days, and then driving back to Florida over the weekend. Pray for good weather, safe traveling, and no complications for anyone.

Thanks for visiting, check back for any more updates!!

-jennifer

Monday's Update

Ultrasound today. Baby Champ is doing well, moving around, practicing breathing, strong heart rate. The amniotic fluid level was lower than last time. The docs like it to be 8 or higher. Last check, it was 10. Today, it was 5 with the first measurement, and maybe 8 with a second look (it's sometimes hard to measure when the baby is breech). Steven and Kiki were waiting to talk with the doctor regarding his plan, although it may involve stricter bed rest and possibly making her lie with her head down and her feet up to minimize the effects of gravity.

The good news is that Kiki did get up in a wheelchair and out of her room Saturday to enjoy a little cake to celebrate Olivia's first birthday. He brother and sister-in-law and their 3 daughters came to visit, and enjoyed some family time. The Physician Assistant from the nursery crashed the party at the end, and spoiled what was a good time, but she'll not be involved in Kiki's care anymore.

I might be getting some pictures soon, and I'll post them for everyone.

The good thoughts and prayers are working. 28 weeks and counting!

As Promised...

The really cool thing I promised (at least it's cool to me because I got to play with some new software on the computer).

This is a video for Steven and Kiki of some familiar faces at home. Everyone misses you and can't wait to have you guys home where you belong!



Told you it was cool!
(In case you're wondering, the music is "I Will Be Here" by Steven Curtis Chapman.)

I'll probably have an update from Steven and Kiki later today, and maybe even some pictures from a little party yesterday to celebrate Olivia's birthday. Keep visiting!!

-j

Something cool is coming...(and I don't mean snow!)

Keep checking this blog...
Sometime over the weekend there's gonna be something really neat for Steven and Kiki here.

I know you're all dying to see it.
But you'll have to wait.

Because it's not quite done yet...

TeeHee. I love the suspense!!

E-mail from Kiki

Hi there,

Sorry I haven't actually spoke with many you but I know that Steve talks to some you frequently. As you can imagine I get tired of talking sometimes. I wanted to thank you soooooo much for visiting the website and following our journey. You know me and my computer illiteracy.

Things are ok just very overwhelming. Some days I can't even believe this is happening. I'm trying to stay strong but it gets harder every day. I know the best place for him is inside me and I want him to saty in there as long as possible. But let me tell you something there's nothing like a numb Cuban butt!!!

Honestly the hardest part about this whole thing is being away from Olivia. The hardest part of the day is the nighttime when they take her away. I know she's well cared for with my family but its hard not to be able to cuddle her every night. But I know that " the Champ " is the one that need me the most right now.

I miss you guys like crazy especially the kids give them a big kiss from us. Unfortunately it is very hard for me to express myself in words and I could never write the way that you do so If you could please let eveyoone know that I am eternally gratefull for all of the thoughts and prayers, I could not make it through this very difficult time without them.

Talk to you soon,
KIKI

After the Jump...

So I see you made it here okay. The link works, good to know!!

Scroll down to read a message from Steven and Kiki.

Thanks for visiting!
-j

A Note from Steven and Kiki

We actually would like to post a thank you to everyone. The thoughts, prayers and kindness have been very comforting. It is very touching to have the love and support in such a horrible time. As I told Jen the other day, these have been the worst days of our life and it's the little things that make it somewhat cope-able.(if that's a word). No matter what we will never forget all of you for your thoughtfulness.

-steven and kiki

Checking In on Champ

OK all you night-time blog-checking readers! I finally have both internet AND an update for everyone, as earlier today I was missing the internet part of the equation.

Kiki and Steven remain in the hospital in Miami. There was some concern last night about a developing fever and question of infection, but everything quieted down with some rest (aka "Lockdown" per Steven).

The ultrasound today had good results. Kiki's amniotic fluid level is back up where the doctors like it to be, so the IV fluid and bedrest is working. "Champ" was moving all around, and practicing breathing. His organs and everything look good. So he got a good score on his ultrasound as well.

A looming problem is the baby's position. Right now, he is breech, or butt down. That makes a vaginal delivery very risky, especially for a premature baby. The best method for delivery of the baby would be by c-section, should delivery become necessary. But, Kiki has been on some blood thinners during the pregnancy, so the surgery then becomes very risky to her. In short, vaginal delivery= less risk for Kiki, more risky for baby. C-section= more risky for Kiki, less risk for the baby. Please pray that God may guide the doctors' decision-making should delivery become necessary, and guide their hands in safely and securely bringing Champ into this world.

The dietician was also in to talk with Kiki. They're trying to find some palatable foods for her to enjoy while hospitalized, because the old joke about hospital food acutally isn't a joke at all- Steven describes it as "unfit for prisoners"... Steven has found some local restaurants to get carry-out, as well as some good home-cooking from "Abuelita"- (did I spell that right, Steven??)

As far as "feeling human", Kiki was up to shower again today. (We can all be thankful for that! just kidding!) She's in good spirits, and is trying to make the best of a crummy situation. She knows that this is what is best for her and for Champ, so that thought is pulling her through this tough time.

I have a little "project" in the works for Kiki...I'll keep you posted if I need help!

Thanks everyone!
-j

The Waiting Game

More news from Miami...I talked with Steven at lunch time today. The doctors repeated an ultrasound to check Kiki and the baby, and found that the amniotic fluid around the baby is continuing to decrease.

A quick "Amniotic Fluid 101" for all the "beginners" out there- Amniotic fluid is all the water that surround the baby when he's in the mother's womb. It's not really water- it's "baby pee". The baby's kidneys are constantly making more fluid. The baby also swallows the fluid and inhales it into the lungs when he practices breathing. Believe it or not, the fluid helps make the lungs expand and grow. It also helps coat the baby's tummy and get his belly ready for milk. Having enough fluid is a sign that the baby is doing good.

Even after a mom's water breaks (like Kiki's), the baby continues to make more fluid. This fluid can reaccumulate around the baby, or it can continue to leak out. When the fluid neither reaccumulates nor leaks out, it could mean the baby has stopped making fluid, which is not good.

So, although the baby's fluid amount has decreased, it's not necessarily bad news. The doctors will do another ultrasound in the next 1-2 days and decide at that time what the next step will be. If her fluid amount is not better, then they will evaluate her closely for why that is not happening, and whether the baby needs to be delivered.

Therefore, the next ultrasound is very important. It is still a possibility that "Champ" could be delivered at any time. They are constantly monitoring his heartrate and his activity, as well as keeping Kiki on strict bedrest to prevent any further complications. The concern of infection still remains, but the probability that she has any infection right now is pretty low. Kiki is on a bunch of antibiotics to protect her and the baby, but remains high risk of acquiring an infection in the hospital.

For anyone who is new to norch.com, Glad you're joining us! I'm trying my best to keep everything current here, so anyone can check from work, from home, from school. Steven and Kiki are getting a HUGE volume of phone calls, and having to explain everything a hundred times is not easy. If you do call Steven or Kiki and they don't answer, it's possibly because they catching some much needed zzzzzz's, or talking with doctors, or doing something else important. Leave a message, and Steven or Kiki will return your call at a time that's better for them.

Steven is also checking in at norch.com, and can read your comments, so if you just want to let them know you are thinking of them or praying for their family, leave a comment and they will get it. Also, I should have an address sometime in the next couple days. Contact me if you would like to send a card or package (I won't be posting their address on the internet).

Again, thank you again for all your support and prayers. Our entire family is truly touched by everyone's genuine caring and concern. We'll keep you updated! Thanks for visiting!