what we know so far

We got the news on Thursday that the 2 smaller babies (A and C) have absence of blood flow during diastole. This is a condition in which the blood flow through the umbilical cord stops at a certain point interrupting both oxygen and nutrition to the baby it affects. There are certain degrees of absence of flow and Baby A's case is extremely severe. A has only grown 1 ounce in 2 weeks (this puts A lower than the 5th percentile for weight), appeared to have fluid trapped around it's brain, and the kidneys were shutting down and there was almost no amniotic fluid surrounding the baby - the placenta is thought to have implanted poorly. The heart is expected to stop this weekend or during the week. We are continuing to pray and I am doing my best to remain calm but the emotional pain of all of this is without a doubt excruciating.

Baby C is more stable but has been diagnosed with the same condition. It is small but in the 15th percentile (at one pound) so is not considered IUGR (intrauterine growth restricted - which would be less than the 10th percentile for weight). The fluid around the baby was ok and movement was good. However, increased monitoring has been ordered and will be done twice weekly by perinatology to monitor for changes - specifically reversal of blood flow. When reversal occurs, the baby must be delivered or not survive. Delivery will depend on stability and size of both Baby C and Baby B. The absence condition, from what we know, will not resolve, our best hope is that it remains stable for a few more weeks to allow for growth so that we may bring home 2 babies. Baby C will be at increased risk for cerebal palsy but also has a decent chance to be ok. The most complete research article I could find has a link that is pasted below.

http://www.nature.com/jp/journal/v22/n4/full/7210715a.html

I have been given 2 rounds of steroid treatments and will most likely be given a booster in 2 weeks. This is to mature the lungs and skin of the babies.

Brent's parents will be with me this Monday when further evaluation is done. Collin (younger brother) will also be here this weekend as he is driving through from L.A.

I have cherished every tiny kick and each moment with my 3 little angels and continue to dream about them growing up together. Please keep us in your thoughts through such a difficult time. Thank you for being patient and allowing us our space and time with immediate family. I will let you know as I learn more.