One foot in front of the other....

Hi little man,

Life is certainly different here in the TCC then that which we were so used to in the ICU.  The days here in the TCC seem to go by with rocket speed.  Sometimes that's because you are in a great mood and we are just having so much fun that the day disappears.  Other days it's because you are upset and we barely have time to step away from your crib to eat a quick meal.  Although some days may be better than others each day is a step forward.  A step closer to the ultimate goal of springing you from this place and taking you home.

The last week has probably been the least eventful for you as far as tests, labs, doctor visits, procedures and surgeries go.  In the TCC you have a nurse practictioner that comes and examines you every morning and then reports to the attending pulmonologist.  These nurse practictioner round with the doctor and a few other important people each morning but it's not nearly the parade of people you were used to spending your mornings with in the ICU.  Mommy is having a bit of an adjustment not hearing all your numbers each morning and knowing every detail of the minutes her and daddy aren't with you in the middle of the night.  After watching so many things so closely every day for five and a half months it's weird to think they only get checked once a week now but that's a good sign.

Thanks to all the great nurses and therapists in the ICU, mommy and daddy were already trained to do most of your care which they greatly encourage in the TCC.  Therefore we often go a few hours without seeing your nurse which is extremely strange to us but a great introduction to home.  The TCC does have an awesome monitoring system so someone is always watching your numbers and there is a camera on your crib so if you try any funny business the troops come running.  Mommy and daddy are working on finishing up our education with CPR training, vent training, and learning how to transport you.  We have met some great nurses, therapists, and educators here in the TCC who are experts on taking care of babies with trachs like you so before long mommy and daddy will know all the tricks.

Your big challenge of the week is continuing to wean off your sedation medication.  Every 3-4 days the doctors decrease a dose or spread out the timing of your medication.   This means that you have a rough day or two to adjust to the changes then a happy day or two before it's time for another change. I know this has to seem like a rough road buddy but it won't last forever.  If you can keep hanging in there we will be rid of those yucky medicines before you know it and that will be awesome.  Good thing you are the strongest little boy I know.  Not many people could handle this tricky process.

On a good note Grandma, Grandpa and Auntie Beth are back to visiting.  Grandma and Grandpa have been deemed germ free and cleared to see you again. I think you are pretty excited to see some other faces than just mommy and daddy and I know they are excited to be part of your days again.  It was all but killing them to stay away.  Mommy is sure glad to see everyone again. You have been flashing smiles at Grandma, listening to crazy Grandpa's stories and even flirting a little with Auntie Beth.  I also know that your Gigi and Granddad Rooster are planning a trip out to see you before long.  How exciting is that?  Connor you sure do have a great family.

Today has been one of your more fussy days and you have to be exhausted by this point.  Mommy and daddy just ate a late dinner in your room (that's right we can eat in here).  I hope you are able to get a good nights sleep and gear up for another day tomorrow.  Just keep putting one foot in front of the other little man and we'll make it to the finish line before long.

Mommy and daddy love you very much Connor.

-Mommy