Monday, April 9

Update: We spent an hour with Collin as he slept this afternoon. The transfusion was a success, his blood count is now normal. Apparently every newborn gets anemic, their bodies aren't able to produce new red blood cells until they are about 6-8 weeks. It is normal for a pre-term baby like Collin (who has lots of blood drawn) to become even more anemic and the red blood cell transfusion gives their blood a little "boost" until they are able to manufacture the new red blood cells. Every little thing from rashes to blisters to diaper rash are reason for concern and worry for all of us. Bigger issues (like blood transfusions) that sound so serious really throw our family into a tailspin.

On a positive note, the feeds were increased to 2 mL an hour yesterday and may increase again today. So far he's tolerating them just fine!

Last evening it was determined that Collin's red blood cell count was low, so he was given a blood transfusion during the night. As soon as we know the cause of the low count or any other updates, we will let you know. As always, we ask for your prayers.

Also, today one of Collin's special angels, Tiffany Naylor, deploys for Afghanistan. She is with the 355th Maintenance Squadron from Davis Monthan AFB and will be gone for a few months. Please keep Tiffany and the Naylor family in your prayers. She is bringing her laptop computer with her and hopes to still read here and comment occasionally. God bless you, Tiffany, and Godspeed.