Sunday, March 9, 2008

Sunday, March 9th

After calling to check on Jack late Saturday night, we were advised by the nurses that Jack may have a heart murmur. The staff could not tell us the extent of the murmur and whether or not it was a significant problem. Although a murmur can often be a common problem with newborns, the concern in the nurses voice alarmed us.

On Sunday we met with the attending physician, who stated that during her checkup of Jack she was unable to detect a murmur. Tomorrow Jack's doctor will perform a through analysis to determine the existence of a murmur. We will keep you posted.

With that said, today turned out to be one of the best days yet for Jack and our family. Mom was able to do Kangaroo Kare for 3 hours! It is the longest period of time Jack has been out of the incubator. Not being able to hold Jack whenever you want is difficult, so when given the opportunity to hold him close for hours it is truly overwhelming. Jack rested peacefully on Mom's chest and both enjoyed the calming experience. His numbers that are monitored 24/7 (respiratory, heart rate, pulse) were his best numbers to date.

During his Kangaroo Kare time Jack was visited by Grandma & Grandpa Houlihan, as well as Aunt Chris. Aunt Chris was thrilled to see how well Jack was doing.

One more piece of good news.....Jack gained an ounce overnight and is now back to his original weight of 2lbs, 2 ounces, though not confirmed...it was rumored that Roger Clemons was seen in the vicinity.

It was great to have so many of Jack's fans visit this weekend, we look forward to having all of you meet our wonderful bundle of joy in the near future.

Until tomorrow.........
JMJ

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hello Smith family! So happy to see how well you are doing Jack! Love the pictures and it's great to see you holding Jack Marg!! You are all in my daily thoughts and prayers! I look forward to seeing you soon Jack! Lots of love, Aunt Patty

Nora K. said...

Hi Jack!! You're a week old now! We missed you at the Southside Parade on Sunday. We started the day at The Kelly's who all say hello and wish you and your parents well. The Smith family was missed but we know you'll all be there next year(hopefully you can bring some warmer weather to the parade!) Then it was off to the parade however no sneaking onto a rooftop this year. We need your mom there so she can show us her attitude and purpose. The rest of the day was spent at the Fennells and again, everyone was congratulating and asking how you were doing. Have a great week and I hope to see you soon!

Love,
Aunt Nora(Your fav Godmother ever)

The LaBarge Family said...

Hi Jack! We are all praying for you, so stay strong and hang in there. Love the pictures. Your Dad looks cool in his scrubs.

Can't wait to meet you. See you soon!

Best wishes and tons of prayers,
Cliff, Terri, Connor and Garrett