a HUGE first.....

Last week Thomas had his first bottle!!! (Thomas is currently fed through a tube which feeds directly into his stomach) At Thomas's age (today, 71 days / 34 weeks + 1 day adjusted) it is difficult to coordinate the "suck, swallow, breath" actions....but he sucked down 16 ccs (a little more than 1/2 a feeding) like a champ on his first try. Unfortunately, the next three attempts were not as successful...but as this beginner's luck is common with preemies, none of Thomas's doctors are particularly concerned about his unsuccessful attempts...we'll just try again in another week or so. But TJC mom and dad got some great pics of Thomas's first bib, bottle and burp which we've included below.

As of this morning, Thomas is weighing just a bit over 3 lbs. 12 oz. While Thomas's doctors are thrilled with his weight gain (gaining weight seems to be a special talent of TJC), we're now trying to make sure that he doesn't gain too much too fast. If Thomas retains too much water, he has a more difficult time breathing (just think of how hard it is to breath after Thanksgiving dinner.....). The water retention is due to a low albumin count http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albumins - but Thomas's albumin count should rise as he matures - and then TJC mom and dad will get to see all of Thomas's adorable chub, without any unnecessary puffiness.

TJC mom and dad are starting to see a lot of changes in Thomas over the past week or so. He is beginning to be truly comforted and excited by our voices and our touch...and is very comfortable being held by us...which we are taking advantage of by holding him about 6 hours a day. The doctors have told TJC mom and dad that holding TJC is good medicine for him - and we think it's incredible medicine for us as well.

Overall, Thomas's doctors are pleased with his progress....and as always, TJC mom and dad could not be prouder of their little guy. Please enjoy the pics below!








Thanks for sharing...we'll be back soon.
-TJC mom and dad