Sunday, March 22, 2009

First Hug

Olivia was hugged and held today for the very first time in her life. At only 25 days, she is now stable enough medically to be "kangaroo" held. In the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, this is referred to as "Kangaroo Care". Studies have found that preemies held skin to skin by mom and dad gain weight quicker, have better lung development, and thrive! It was an emotional moment for Jon, nurse Erin, and I. Olivia's oxygen saturations levels have been between 85-90%, and when we put her on my chest, they rose to 97% and her oxygen had to be turned down twice. Olivia is a little miracle, and we are blessed!

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Pooh, you and Jon and the rest of your family are a shining example of true compassion and unselfishness. It brings tears to my eyes and make my heart swell with pride.

Love you all.

Dad

Josh and Desi Swenson said...

Misti & Jon,
Wow! How awesome! God has hand picked you and your hearts to work with these sweet children. We are so very happy for you and your precious family. Our prayers continue for God's will to be done! All our love,
Josh, Desi and girls

Anonymous said...

Misty and Jon - Thank you so much for sharing this with us, what a special moment. -Molly