Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Photos of Our Darling Girl

Daphne Jane Gainer was born on January 20, 2011. She weighed 4 lb. 9 oz. and was 17 in. long. Now, at 13 days old, she weighs 5 lb. 1 oz. She has beautiful, soft, curly hair and dark chocolate eyes. When I first arrived, she looked pale and a bit swollen, but her soft skin is beginning to show some color, and the swelling around her eyes has started to go down (her feet are still pretty puffy).

Daphne is a calm, quiet baby who cries only when she is hungry or angry about being poked and prodded by the nurses (who are really very gentle with her). She is a greedy and speedy eater, which is rare and very encouraging in a heart baby. She loves her pacifier but will settle for her thumb if no one is there to put it in her mouth. She is happy to be held all day long but will also rest peacefully on her own. The nurses frequently comment that she is a very easy baby.

I spend all day in Daphne’s room in the NICU. I get to feed her, change her, lotion her, and hold her as much as I want. I usually hold her for 2–3 hours at a time and then give her a break in her bed. It’s hard to put her down, but I always stay nearby.

Daphne is doing great for a baby with her type of heart defect (more on her condition to come). We have been very blessed. Here’s a little glimpse of our baby girl.

 

5 comments:

  1. Rachel, I have so enjoyed reading the updates on little Daphne. She is just BEAUTIFUL. I can't wait to meet and get to know this special girl! Congratulations!

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  2. Rach! She is so so scrumptious! I cannot wait to meet her!! Luv u xo

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  3. Rachel! I had no idea you had this blog. So fun to catch up. As rare as this heart condition is, I actually have a friend with a baby who has the same or very similar conidition, except its the left side. He just completed the Glenn surgery yesterday. You can check out her blog about all they've been thru. He wasn't diagnosed until after birth which is almost unheard of. http://www.mbabyheartblog.blogspot.com I'm so happy for you and your family! I know that you guys will be great parents for her and be able to give her what she needs most... a loving accepting family! I felt bad when I saw you at Festival of Trees... got distracted and when I turned back to talk to you again, you were gone. I'd really love to get caught up sometime! Lots of loves to you and Daphne!

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  4. Rachel, she is absolutely gorgeous! And your pictures of her are fantastic. I'm so happy for your little family. It seems 100 percent meant to be, and I know you'll weather the challenges ahead with strength and conviction. Can't wait to meet her!

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  5. she's beautiful! can't wait to meet her\=)

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