Don't Get Comfortable

Willa had an appointment with the GI specialist on Wednesday. I didn't expect to learn anything new because it seemed like we are just chugging along. I was most excited to get an official height and weight for Willa. I thought the numbers were great. All I care about is seeing the numbers go up and they did! Willa is 29 inches long (daddy better hurry up and change out the car seat in his truck) and 16.5 pounds. Wahoo that is almost a pound gained in a month!! Apparently, I'm the only one celebrating.

GI wants to see a faster weight gain to support her length. Willa's BMI number is current the focus. Also, Willa has a bit of eczema on her face and the back of one knee. I thought it was due to the "cold" weather in North Carolina, but the GI thinks that the eczema is Willa's body reacting to the formula. There is the potential of trying to switch Willa's current formula to something that is even more broken down and easier to digest. GI also is still trying to find the magic formula that will suddenly increase Willa's liquid intake. I think they are searching for a unicorn because it ain't gonna happen!

It is so hard to tell if Willa's current medications are working or if they are even necessary. We are stopping the appetite stimulant medication on the weekends to try and "jump start" the effect. We don't think Willa is still refluxing but the nexium will continue. Finally, GI wants to add an additional medicine. The goal of the new medicine is to empty Willa's stomach faster to make her think that she is hungry. This one makes me shake my head because Willa poops 3-4 times a day!!! I think stuff is moving right along. Oh, and Daren was super enthused b/c he hates is very pro-medicine.

I talk about the MOO's Facebook page a good bit...but it really is an amazing group of people. Such a fabulous support to new moms, families, and omphalocele survivors. Just last night one of the moms posted about how we need to have a growth chart for omphalocele babies. I TOTALLY AGREE!!!!! O babies don't gain weight like non-o babies. They just don't! I think a new growth chart would help ease the stress for so many families. As a group we are working to increase omphalocele awareness any and every way we can.