Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Blogging for Preemies

Every year, more than half a million babies are born prematurely in the United States. The rate of premature birth has risen by 30 percent since 1981.

Premature birth is the leading cause of newborn death worldwide. Even babies born just a few weeks too soon can face serious health challenges and are at risk of lifelong disabilities. Premature birth costs society more than $26 billion a year.

We were one of the lucky families. Despite abrupting at 23.5w (and 17w before that) I was able to stay pregnant for 6 more weeks and give Emma a chance as survival. Had she been born the day I was admitted to the hospital she would have had a less than 30% chance of survival. Those 6 weeks gave her a chance and we owe her life to the March of Dimes and all that they've done for prematurity. The research and technologies that they have funded, along with the amazing doctors and nurses are why we have a spunky two and a half year old. There are many things I could say about our journey and how the decision to have a second child has brought so much of it back, but today I want to dwell on the positive.

Emma was born at 29w, weighing 2lbs 12oz and 15.5" tall







Now she's 2.5 years old and full of life. Like I said, we were lucky :)

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Boo!

Some belated Halloween pics



Henry, William and Emma







Ivory and Jamie




A full length shot of "Ivory". This costume was awesome!


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