July 31, 2004

The upcoming week should be a good one for J. With the Ringworm nearly gone (Yay! finally!), his Therapist's will be able to visit him. He will also be seeing Dr. Huang, a Urologist, to follow up on the dilation if his kidney's, which began while he was still in the hospital. Also, this week, Grandma Smith will be coming to Wichita (from Dodge City, Ks.) to visit J and help me put together a NICU Graduation poster. When it is complete, I will have a color copy made for me, and then have it laminated to be displayed outside WMC's NICU. I have purchased the supplies and printed the pictures, it should be really fun to make!

July 27, 2004

More than two weeks after we saw the first pink spot, Jacob's ringworm still lingers. Unfortunately that means he cannot visit with his Therapists this week. We hope the rash clears up in time for his next visit, which is scheduled for Monday August 2nd.

July 24, 2004

I have good news! Today is the happiest I've been in a long time! While playing with Jacob this afternoon, Brett stuck his tongue out and wiggled it around without making any sounds and J laughed/smiled at him! And another cool sign- while editing pictures on the computer (of J and his Cousin Alec); I had to remove the red-eye from J's right eye! Red-eye shows up on pictures because light is reflected off the back of the eye! Oh, and another thing, J's right pupil is returning to it's normal shape, whereas before it was narrow and flat on top. (Dr. V. says that happens when there is fluid in the eye and the retina is not lying correctly). What a weekend! It's been so GREAT! Brett and I are SO happy!!!!

July 21, 2004

Thanks to everyone for your feedback on the redesigned site! Also, thanks for sending your addresses for J's big bash! For the most part, it will be an adult party, but there will still be balloons, cake and ice cream, that's for sure!

J's ringworm is getting better. He still has a few spots on his chest and back (one in the shape of a heart) but they are "crusting over" and will hopefully be gone soon! I have received contradicting reports on whether or not the rash is contagious. To be on the safe side, I am assuming it is and am taking the necessary precautions (hand washing, etc.).

July 15, 2004

Wow, the feedback I have received for the redesigned site is amazing! I am so happy you all enjoy the new look! I have had a lot of fun putting it all together! Ok, now on to Jacob news! 
Monday afternoon Brett and I took J to see some of his old pals at the NICU. We were there dropping off some insurance papers and thought we'd stop by to see everyone. The Doc and nurse that admitted j when he was born weren't there, but we were able to see many other people who helped in his care. It was so nice, yet scary to be back there. 

On Tuesday, I took J to see his Pediatrician for a regular check-up. His weight is great, his tone and strength are great and the Doc still comments on how great his head shape is (for being a preemie). While we were there, Doc looked at a rash on J's leg that started late last week. (We called the office when we first saw it and were told to put Tinactin on it). Well, she confirmed that it was ringworm and advised that I continue the Tinactin (and to let her know if it became worse). At the time, I didn't think it was any big deal. It's just a rash, right? Wrong! Today one of J's Therapists came over and as soon as I told her about the ringworm, she said she couldn't work with him. I thought to myself, "why?" Because it's contagious- highly contagious! Uhm, had I known this I would not have taken J to visit the NICU and I would not have had any therapists come over! I guess the Pediatrician forgot to mention that little tidbit to me. 

So, yesterday I called the NICU to let them know, as well as my family, whom we spent Sunday evening with. I pray I haven't spread this evil rash to a bunch of other people, especially the kids! 

July 11, 2004

It has been a great weekend! Last Thursday Brett and I took Jacob to Rainbows United for a VI (Visually Impaired) Playgroup. We met two mothers whose children have very little vision. It was very comforting to meet and talk to other parents who are going through what we are. The little ones interacted, played with new toys and had a lot of fun! We plan to meet again soon!

Party News: I have started the invite list and the time, etc. I plan to get the invitations out the first week of August! I am getting so excited; it is going to be a very emotional day! If you didn't see the note on the homepage, I need your address!

July 7, 2004

Great News! Jacob went to see Dr. V. (Retinal Doctor) today and he was very happy to see that J’s right retina has improved! Although we don't know what percentage of the retina is attached, we do know it has gotten better. This is such a blessing considering his left eye has little chance of improving. Please keep J in your prayers as we continue to hope for the best vision possible for our Fighter!

July 6, 2004

I have good news to share today! Jacob went to his Pediatric Ophthalmologist this morning and things went very well. While looking at J's right eye, the Doctor saw what he described as a "streak," which is a reflection off the retina. That means part of the retina is definitely attached! A very good sign! =) Still no change with the left eye. When J visits Dr. V. (The retinal Doc who has been seeing J since soon after birth for his retinal disorder) we should have even more insight on the progress of the right retina. 

J had a great time celebrating his first 4th of July! He laid on a blanket in the grass and was hugged and kissed by many! Once it started getting dark, I took him inside though because of all the bugs! And he did very well with all the noise of fireworks outside! Oh and how could I forget? J turned 10 months old on the 4th! How exciting! I'm so proud of him!