Day 2 - An A+ Report Cord

This morning Kelly and I woke up early, ready to go celebrate Brooklyn's first full day of living outside the womb. Our first peak into her incubator was a wonderful surprise -- she looked great! Brooklyn already looked healthier after only 24 hours. We spent a few hours just staring at her.

Both grandmas arrived on the scene (one from the South Shore and one from Toledo, Ohio) this morning as well. It was amazing to see their reactions as Brooklyn tried to pull her tubes out, kicking her little legs as if preparing ballet steps in her head already. Mom is very proud.

The most important part of the day was at 2pm. We had what the NICU (Newborn Intensive Care Unit) call a "family meeting" where our social worker, Sheila, and two of the nurses gave us an honest run-down of how Brooklyn was faring. First things first: the nurse told us that, unless a very drastic change occurs, Brooklyn is going to live! This was the best part of our day.

In addition to this amazing news, the doctors gave Brooklyn an A+ report card. Brooklyn was scheduled for a brain ultrasound at 9am where we would find out if there were any unusual blood vessel or clotting issues that might cause serious brain dysfunction. Disorders such as cerebral palsy can be common with babies born at 24 weeks. Brooklyn passed with flying colors, which caused Kelly and I both to cry. This first week is the most vital for healthy brain function and if Brooklyn can get through this week without any brain/blood issues she has a 90-95% chance of reducing any sort of long-term cognitive issues. Praise God!

Again, your calls, prayers, flowers, dinners, and laughter have been the best form of medicine. And I know Brooklyn can feel the blanket of prayers and love surrounding her. I guarantee she's kicking her strong little legs in "thanks" right now!