He's home! (revised 9/18)

Colby is finally home! We walked through our door around 5:30 this afternoon. YIPPEE!! He has been drinking his milk like a champ (since last Thursday night) and was holding and gaining weight just fine (they take a three day average after the feeding tube is removed, and he did well, only losing just a tad of weight during one of those nights, and gaining solidly on average).

As strange as it might sound to some of you, it was sad for Jennifer and I to leave Wake Med after all of these months (since July 19 when her water first broke). However, we are very happy to have our boy home after our long, tough journey. Just about everything we do these days is both happy and sad, as well documented, and leaving the hospital and all of the wonderful staff there was emotional. Gavin's short four days were all in the intensive care nursery and he was cared for by many of the nurses and Dr's that we have been seeing on a daily basis while visiting Colby, so letting go of that routine hurts. The hospital staff was very understanding and compassionate to our situation and we also had alot of interaction with some of Colby's nursery neighbors that had also lost a twin (a triplet in one situation), so being there on a daily/nightly basis was very therapeutic for us no doubt. With that being said, we are looking forward to our new routine with the Colbster at home (check out the smiles in the above pictures), and to a very bright future.

Two of our favorite nurses were on shift today and got to discharge Colby (& us), which made it a little more special. We took our time today and did alot of last minute socializing with Colby's "neighbors" in the nursery and with as much staff as we could, and we then had a thorough discussion with one of Colby's Dr's about his discharge, his health, and some great advice and tips on what do in the days, weeks and months to come. One of the biggest issues is keeping Colby healthy and away from viruses and infection during the upcoming cold and flu season (Octoberish through March), as Jennifer mentioned in the previous post (and he being a preemie adds to the concern). We do want Colby to meet his family and friends, and we will work to find a balance that works for everyone.
Love to all,
s & j

ps- For those who contributed to Colby's college fund in memory of Gavin, Sean said the checks will be cashed this week, and apologized for the delay. THANK YOU for your kindness and generosity, it will never be forgotten.