Day 1 in the Step-Down Unit

Lily had quite a busy day today. She continues to eat well and this is such a positive sign. Today was the first day since birth that we saw a little irritability. It is hard for Lee and I to distinguish between typical newborn behavior and cardiac issues. We weren't sure if she was in pain or just fussy or a little of both. We had some difficulty consoling her today and she really did not sleep very much. It could have something to do with all of the interruptions. Doctors were coming in and out, we met with a lactation consultant, a social worker, physical therapy, and learned how to bathe her and care for her scar. One of the physical therapists was a friend of mine from Mount St. Joseph's Academy, Krista. It was such a nice surprise seeing her and having her help us with Lily. There have been a few small world stories surrounding our visit at CHOP. Our anesthesiologist, Dr. Steven, was referred to us by our good friend Evan's father. Dr. Steven took such excellent care of Lily and we are grateful for Dr. Davis' phone call on our behalf. I went to a dinner in December with a bunch of pregnant girls in the city. It's nice to talk or shall I say commiserate together on the ups and downs of being pregnant. I just so happened to sit next to Lauren, whose aunt Donna works at CHOP. Donna came down twice to check on Lily and talk with us. My very dear friend Eileen's sister-in-law was a nurse in the CICU for three years. Clare and I were able to speak this fall and she shared so many ins and outs of the CICU. It was SO helpful speaking with someone that works directly with the babies. Clare now works in the CCU and has already come to visit the three of us. I would love for Clare to be Lily's nurse before she leaves. The nurses in the CICU are incredible and all of them have a special gift. They've taught Lee and I a lot of tricks for taking care of Lily. My aunt Reenie's colleague's husband works at CHOP. Scott came down a few times to check on us and Miss Lily. Lastly, another anesthesiologist has children in the Lower Merion School District. She had a meeting at my school and the office staff noticed she was wearing scrubs. One of my colleagues, Karen, has a daughter that just started her career as a nurse at CHOP. They were talking and Lily's name came up and this doctor came to visit Lee and I too. It is so nice seeing a friendly face and having people "check-up" on you while in the hospital.

Lily's cardiologist continues to tell us how great Lily is doing. We should expect her home in a few days. Yes, that's right a few days. Lee and I were completely shocked to hear that news as it's Thursday and her surgery was just on Monday. We'll continue to keep everyone updated as this little peanut could be safe and sound at home shortly.