November is Prematurity Awareness Month

My youngest, Vanessa, was born 6 weeks premature. She was 5 pounds, 8 ounces and 21" long.

Things seemed fine at first. Then she became jaundice, normal I know. Then she would have moments where it was like she was holding her breath. Five days after she was born we were told to expect a call to schedule training for a heart monitor so we could keep a close eye on her for a while at home.

The next morning we received a call alright only it was to tell us she had a 101 fever and was going through testing, which included two spinal taps already. During these tests they discover she had hydrocephalus as well. She spent four more weeks in the St. Vincents NICU in Indianapolis on an antibiotic to treat what they thought was spinal meningitis.

Once she went home we had lots of Dr's appointments to monitor everything, but I'm happy to say that everything turned out fine. The hydrocephalus healed itself and she has no signs of being premature nor sick.

January 12th she will turn 8 years old. A wonderful answer to many, many prayers!

I have gained flack in the past for my supporting the March of Dimes, however no matter what anyone says I believe this organization is a wonderful organization that is out to help all babies and I thank them for that!