Thursday, April 24, 2008

Friday, April 25, 2008

Hello,

Jack had a great first full day in his new surroundings, he spent most of his time sleeping, which is a good thing, and he seems to enjoy taking in all the sights and sounds of his new address. We look forward to the day Jack can enjoy the great park right out his front door. All is going well, tomorrow we are off to meet Jack's new doctor and get his first check-up. We have several appointments over the next few weeks and Jack will be very attuned to downtown before long.

Mom is doing a fantastic job tending to all Jack's needs throughout the day and night, Dad is wondering why Jack doesn't seem to be able to catch the ball he keeps throwing him.

Remember today and tomorrow is Misericordia's Candy Days, please don't forget to support all the kids with a generous donation. There are also still lanes available on Saturday for "Bowl for a Cure", to support cancer research. Call Uncle John at 847-316-2777 for details.

Have a great weekend, we sure will. Thanks for checking in.
JMJ

Thursday, April 24, 2008

JACK HAS LEFT THE BUILDING
After fifty-two days in the hospital Jack was released yesterday afternoon. Mom and Dad accompanied by Police and Fire personnel transported Jack to his new home in the South Loop. Grandma Houlihan and Uncle John were on hand to greet Jack upon his arrival. Thanks to Grandma Houlihan and Uncle John for all the goodies they brought for Mom and Dad. By the way, Jack is doing fine, he survivied his first nite alone with Mom and Dad, we know some of you had your doubts.

It's awesome to finally have Jack home and not have to visit him in the hospital. We already have him sleeping through the nite and feeding himself, (just kidding Grandma Smith). Today we plan on hanging out and enjoying this very special time, we may even venture out for a stroll this afternoon. As you can see Jack had quite a sendoff from the hospital, many of his nurses came by to say goodbye to Jack. We will miss all our friends at the NICU.

Stay tuned......

Jack wants to know whats up with the Sox, he's very excited for all you Cub fans.

Wednesday, April 23, 2008





Wednesday, April 23, 2008

JACK'S HEADED HOME

The day has has finally come for Jack to say goodbye to the NICU and Northwestern Hospital. Mom and dad just met with the doctors and Jack has been given the GREEN light to go home. There are few details to go over with the nurses and one more meeting with the doctor, but Jack should be on his way home early this afternoon.

We are truly blessed by the exemplary work of all the doctors and nurses, the prayers from our family and friends and the grace of God. This is a very special day, one we have waited patiently to enjoy. We will update tomorrow and will assure all a few pictures of Jack's homecoming.

Thanks to all...........

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

It's becoming clear that Jack is a short timer for the NICU, we are very excited that his stay in the hospital is nearing it's end. If all goes well Jack will be headed home tomorrow, that's right,TOMORROW!!!! Mom is working overtime to get everything perfect to welcome Jack into his new digs on Federal St. The sheets are being washed and the all the great clothes Jack has received are ready for his arrival. As we begin our fiftieth day in the NICU we are beginning to clean out all Jack's personal items he has accumulated during his stay.

We can't wait for tomorrow, we're ready to get Jack home and begin his new journey. Although we will be making many trips to the doctor and physical therapist over the next few weeks Jack's progress and growth are very positive.

As we look forward to tomorrow we again want to thank everyone for all the prayers and thoughts that have been sent Jack's way. There is no doubt Jack has benefited from all the care he has received by his family and friends.

See you tomorrow............
JMJ


Monday, April 21, 2008

Monday, April 21,2008

Jack had a very good weekend and the roller coaster may make a stop soon so Jack can get off to transfer to another location. Yes, we are very hopeful Jack will be able to come home very soon, his feedings really excelled over the weekend. Early this morning Jack passed his car seat test, his vitals were monitored for over an hour while sitting in his new luxurious mobile transport unit.

Mom and Dad have been busy getting the house ready for Jack's homecoming, he is sure to be the best dressed preemie in the South Loop thanks to all the great gifts he has received from all his family and friends.

As we seem to be nearing our stay at the hospital it will truly be a bittersweet departure. The NICU has been our second home, well maybe our real home over the last two months. We have experienced quite a range of emotions during Jack's stay in room 1082F. We can never adequately express our thanks to everyone that has taken care of Jack. The doctors have been incredible in their care of Jack, they are just so dedicated to the care of these special babies it takes your breath away. The nurses can't be described with words, they are now part of our extended family. We believe you would truly have to witness them in action to appreciate their amazing skill. They have been there for us every step of the way to answer endless questions, explain procedures, interpret medical terminology, and most importantly assure Mom and Dad that Jack will be okay. They never gave us a false sense of hope, they were honest and candid regarding Jack's prognosis. We hope another child would never have to through what Jack has endured, but we are assured that these children will receive the best care imaginable.

Thanks for checking in, we're almost there, we appreciate ALL of your thoughts and prayers.

JMJ

Friday, April 18, 2008

Friday, April 18, 2008

Another Friday has arrived and Jack continues his forward progress. His weight gain has started to pick-up and his vital signs have been strong. We are still hopeful that a discharge date is in the near future, the docs are keeping a close watch on Jack's food intake.

Mom and Dad attended a "Taking Home Your Baby" class yesterday. The nurse provided us with a check-list of things to do and what to have on hand to make Jack feel at home. With all the lights, bells, and commotion of the NICU the nurse said babies sometimes have a hard time sleeping when its quiet. We think Jack will have plenty of activity to keep him busy in his new surroundings.

For the last forty-six(46) days we have come to Northwestern and have seen moms and dads bringing in car seats to take their babies home. We were asked to bring in our car seat this week, with that said, I guess it really has set in that Jack is on track to leave the hospital. We approach this time with the greatest sense of anticipation and joy, but also with a some nervousness. For almost two months we've had the safety and security of the outstanding nurses that have taken such wonderful care of Jack. We've had such a great education watching the nurses care for Jack it's been a real benefit to us. One of the tests Jack has to accomplish this weekend is to sit in the car seat and maintain his vitals for at least an hour.

We look forward to another great weekend and are hopeful for a homecoming soon.

Stay tuned.......

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Jack was a busy little guy on Tuesday, he had a hearing and eye test. Jack did well on both tests but he was only able to see the Big Black "X" during his eye test. Jack continued on his mission to master his feeding regimen. He must be getting the hang of things because he weighed in late Tuesday at 4lbs.

We are very proud of his stamina to excel during his feedings. The nurses are very happy with his progress and are always around to give Mom and Dad much needed feeding tips. Although things are going well we have to be realistic regarding Jack's release. He still needs to improve his breathing during feedings, and although not significant, he has had a few shallow breathing spells. These of course are expected for a preemie but also remind us that he still needs to grow and mature before we can take him home.

We are excited about his recent accomplishments and look forward to more progress this week. Jack's excited to get home and cheer on his two favorite teams, the "GO Go White Sox and whoever plays the Cubs", just kidding all you Cubbie fans. It would be great to dream about a subway series............

Always,
JMJ

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Jack had a terrific weekend and great Monday. Early Sunday Jack's feeding tube was removed and he is now getting all his feedings from bottle and Mom. Being able to see our son with no tubes taped to his face is very special. For the first time in six weeks we are able to see all Jack's expressions, of course our favorite is when he flashes his smile, see below. The feeding tube being removed is really a significant step forward for Jack and will help him in his quest to get home. Now that Jack is feeding by bottle and Mom, it takes much more of his energy. After each feeding Jack takes a much needed nap before he is ready to go again. His weight gain is steady right now, just slightly under four pounds. The nurses anticipate that once Jack becomes comfortable with all the feeding he will begin to gain significant weight.

Over the weekend Jack had a great visit with Godmother Nora, Aunts The Bridge and Molly. Word spread throughout the NICU that Jack was entertaining his harem, what a lucky guy. Later in the day Lace stopped by and on Sunday Aunt Susan came by and brought Mom and Dad a wonderful dinner. Thanks to Grandma Smith for all the goodies. Jack's steady stream of visitors continued on Monday with great visits from Kim and Cindy.

On Monday reality began to set in when Jack's nurse Amber told us we need to start preparing for Jack's discharge. Once we caught our breath we began to put our to do list together. Although Jack still needs several days to get his feedings under control there is definitely a possible homecoming in the near future.

We thank all for your continued thoughts and prayers.
JMJ

Friday, April 11, 2008

Friday, April 11, 2008

Hello,

Things are well with Jack in his new home(open crib), he seems to be adapting very well to his new surroundings and all the hustle and bustle of the NICU. Now that Jack is in an open crib Mom and Dad can pick him up and hold him anytime, we know this worries Grandma Smith but be assured we are very careful and under the watchful eye of our wonderful nursing staff. Jack is also able to start wearing some of his personal wardrobe, we've been bringing in some of the great outfits Jack has received recently. He continues to increase his bottle feedings and weighed in this morning at 3lbs, 14 ounces.

As we approach the start of our sixth week in the NICU we are very excited about a possible discharge date. Although we are still a little ways away we've been hard at work getting Jack's new home ready. We can't thank Grandma Houlihan enough for all the support she has provided to us during our stay at the hospital.

Another day lies ahead and we continue to be very positive about Jack's progress. This last week Jack has really started to come into his own and we look forward to him meeting some big goals this week.

Today we remember Uncle Billy and the wonderful spice of life he brought to all he touched.

JMJ

Wednesday, April 9, 2008



Wednesday, April 9, 2008

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!FREE AT LAST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Late Tuesday Jack said goodbye to the isolette(incubator) he has called home for over five weeks. The doctors and nurses said Jack's temperature was stable and he was ready to move to an open crib. What a great day for Jack, this is a significant sign that Jack is turning the corner and heading for home, literally.

There are still several more hurdles Jack has to complete before he will be allowed to head home but his continued progress is a strong sign he is headed in the right direction. Being allowed to be in an open crib is really a treat for Jack and Mom and Dad.

Take Care,

JMJ

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Jack was able to continue his progress he began over the weekend. On Monday, with the help of his wonderful nurse Carol Jack was taken off his air cannullis. As of now he is breathing on his own without any assistance. The nurses and docs will monitor him closely the next few days to make sure his breathing is stable. This is yet another hill Jack has climbed with success.

It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of Jack's Great Uncle Billy. Uncle Billy passed away last evening after a courageous battle with cancer. Uncle Billy will long be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit and the love of his family. We thank all those who have kept Uncle Billy in their prayers these last several months.

Monday, April 7, 2008

Monday, April 7, 2008

Jack had a great weekend, we are really excited with his continued progress. On Saturday and Sunday Jack continued to increase his bottle intake. Overnight Jack didn't have any desats or bradys. This is important because he must be able to go five days without any breathing problems before the docs will consider his release. Although we are still a good ways away from getting Jack home the docs and nurses are very encouraged with his continued progress.

Jack weighed in early this morning at 3lbs., 12 ounces. What a far cry from five weeks ago when Jack joined us at a mere 2.2lbs. With each passing day the changes in Jack are evident. He has become very aware of his surroundings when we have him out of his isollette, he always has a big smile whenever his Mom is holding and feeding him. This part of the roller coaster ride has been incredibly entertaining with each passing day. We look forward to another great week.

Special thanks to everyone that stopped by to see Jack this weekend, Grandma and Grandpa Houlihan, Deirdre,Timmy, Nicolay, and cousin Julia.

Enjoy the pictures.......

Friday, April 4, 2008

Friday, April 4, 2008

Greetings,

Jack had a good Thursday, he was able to take another bottle from the nurse and Mom was also able to feed him from the bottle. He continues his growth pattern, now up to 3lbs., 7ounces. Jack is also doing well with his physical therapy. The therapist stopped by yesterday and made sure Jack continues to do his exercises as much as possible. The therapist was pleased with Jack's progress to date and provided Mom, dad and the nurses a regimen to follow.

Jack was visited on Thursday evening from his Godfather Ryan, cousin Taylor and Uncle John, all were amazed and surprised at how much he has grown. Jack was at his best when he flashed his signature smile and baby blues for his fans.

We look forward to another good day for Jack tomorrow.

On a side note we want to mention two special events coming up at the end of April. On Saturday, April 26th, Jack's Uncle John will be hosting his annual "Bowl for a Cure" to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research. The event will take place at Skokie Lanes from 3pm-7pm, prizes, silent auction, food and entertainment will be available. To reserve a lane call John at 847-316-2777.

On April 26 and 27 our friends at Misericordia will again be conducting their annual "Candy Days". As we all know there is no other organization as committed and dedicated to children and adults than Misericordia. You can always volunteer your time by contacting Misericordia.

Thanks to all........
JMJ

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

!!!!JACK's One-Month Birthday!!!!

Hi Everyone,

We celebrated Jack's first month today, he started the day by taking a full feeding by bottle this morning. This is another big step for Jack. While feedings for full term babies are normally not an issue, feeding preemies is another matter. Feeding from Mom or a bottle requires a preemie to suck, swallow and breath at the same time which is difficult for a preemie and quickly tires them out. In the days and weeks ahead, we will be working closely with Jack to ensure his continued progress and success of this big task.

Late this evening we received a call that Jack's head ultrasound was negative. What a great way to celebrate Jack's first month of life! (FYI, for most preemies a head ultrasound is given at 1 week and 1 month of life to ensure that there is no bleeding on the brain)

As we head into month 2 (and hopefully our final month in the NICU) we continue to be extremely grateful for the prayers and support from our family and friends.

JMJ

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Good morning,

Monday was a busy day for Jack, he continues to spend longer periods of time outside his isolette. The nurses continue to encourage interaction with Jack as much as possible. The physical therapist has provided mom and dad with a series of exercises to help Jack get stronger. Mom has taken the lead in making sure Jack's exercise routine is on schedule. Mom is always at his side cheering him on making sure she has all the up to the minute information on Jack's treatment.

This morning Jack had a visit from the eye doctor. The doctor wanted to see if Jack's early arrival to us caused any problems with his vision. Although Jack is still developing the doctor gave us a positive outlook. There will be several more eye check-ups over the next several months to make sure Jack's eyes are on the right track.

Tomorrow we celebrate Jack's one month arrival, it's truly hard to believe it's been a month since we've been graced with his birth. It's really hard to put into words the emotional ride we've been on this last month. At times it seems like it's been the longest month of our lives and at other times it seems like time is flying by so fast we don't know what day it is. But in the end it's been the best month EVER!!! We are not only blessed with a strong, courageous, beautiful son, but also an incredible group of family and friends that have literally been by our sides every step of the way. Every one of you who have called, emailed, made a comment, sent a card or gift, or simply had a good thought or prayer for Jack have overwhelmed us with your kindness and sincerity. There aren't enough words to express our gratitude, just THANKS!!!!

We love you all, enjoy the second month of the ride!!!!
Jack, Margaret and Jim