Mason is doing well

Mason is stable and improving in the NICU. He is still receiving breathing support from CPAP (a machine that provides constant positive air pressure to his lungs), but his oxygen levels have improved and he is breathing almost all room air with very little supplemental oxygen. He is doing great with his feedings, although for now it is all through a feeding tube. He got a little jaundiced yesterday, which is very common in preemies, and they are hoping to remove the lights within a few days. The main goal for him now is to improve his breathing and reduce the amount of CPAP support. His little lungs just need more time to mature. These are all expected complications for a preemie of his gestation and hopefully should have no long term effects.

I was sent home on Wednesday after 33 long days in the hospital. Although it is nice to finally be home, leaving Mason behind was the hardest thing I've ever done. I know he's getting the best care possible and thankfully we live 1/2 mile from the hospital so we can visit several times a day. I was able to hold him for the first time yesterday and can spend more time doing 'kangaroo care' (skin to skin holding time that is very beneficial to preemies) when his jaundice improves.

Our precious baby Mason is blessed to have so many people who are praying and thinking of him. I know many of you would like to go see him at the hospital, but unfortunately, visitors are limited to parents and grandparents while he's still in the critical care nursery. I'll keep posting pictures for everyone to see his progress.

Mommy getting to hold him for the first time (2 days old)

All cozy in his bed (2 days old)