Today was an emotional day. Something that seemed so far out of reach only a few days ago was suddenly here. After a great night of "rooming in" with Eli, we were finally cleared to start the next chapter of our story.
After 12 exhausting days in the NICU, Eli was finally discharged from the hospital today.
The amount of joy we felt walking out of the NICU for what we can only hope will be the last time was surreal. The whirlwind of emotions that we've experienced over the last 2 weeks has been incredible, but its not over. Tomorrow we meet with his pediatrician for the first time, and then the follow up visits with specialists will start in the coming weeks. From looking at Eli, you'd never be able to tell that he started his life the way he did, and that's what is hardest. As first time parents, it's going to be hard for us to know whats normal behavior, and whats not. Over the coming years, we will face challenges that are a result of HIE, but that wont stop us. We've got a great network of health-care professionals who truly give us the feeling of being in this together.
One of those wonderful professionals is a Social Worker. In talking with us prior to our discharge today, she told us about the services that will be reaching out to assist us with Eli's future. She also talked to us about PTSD and how it can occur with traumatic birth experiences like ours. I've done a great job compartmentalizing everything that's happened over the last 12 days, but that's not a viable long term solution. Part of my "process" was to start this website in hopes that it will help other parents in the future, but that's not enough either. In order to ensure Eli has the best chance for success, I have to make sure I'm taking care of myself. It's amazing how many things you can get done when you're looking for reasons not to call and schedule an appointment. Tomorrow, though, its getting scheduled. No more excuses. If Eli is strong enough to make it through the last 12 days, I can be strong enough to make a phone call.
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