Amara-Lise Beatrix, this sweet little bundle weighed only 2 lbs., 12 oz when she arrived in this world at 30 weeks gestation. Yesterday, when I held her she had topped the 7 lb. weight mark. She's been in the NICU since birth on April 2. By the time she is discharged, it will be almost three months!
Easter Sunday, I drove Christelle (strong Mama She-bear) to the hospital for a consultation that lasted longer than expected. I was able to spend some quality cuddling time with Amara-Lise. I thought about how this Little One has never seen or felt sunshine on her face - or a gently flowing breeze - has not seen her wonderful siblings for more than a brief visit - has had tubes and monitors on and in her body all the time - these come with a myriad of caretakers who must check and monitor all the monitors - prodding and poking as they must to keep her safe. She has heard all the alarms going off, at all times, day and night and the commotion that all this entails. Such a life we never imagined or wanted for her. We are grateful for all the professionals who have kept her safe with care and technology that was not possible in earlier times.
Mom, Christelle, has been her only consistent presence. She has had to disengage dramatically from day to day life with Chris and the children in order to be the engaged nurturer for Amara-Lise. She's allowed us and Gram and Pups Kallio to watch over and care for the children at home. I think she has had the harder role to play. She has had to witness the trauma that a NICU baby endures. She's had to speak her mind to the professionals who dismiss her years of wonderful mothering and teaching as a prenatal instructor and certified lactation counselor. She has had to comfort and console Amara-Lise after procedures and interruptions. She is one remarkable woman.
We all just want AMARA-LISE TO COME HOME! Maybe next week!
