BREAST FEEDING!!

Trev has been attempting breast feeding for about 5 days now once a shift. A shift is a 12 hour period and a preemie starts out at Stage 1 feeding, which is either a bottle or breast feeding once a shift (he is fed 4 times a shift) then based on his tolerance that will increase. He still has a feeding tube for the other feedings. The lactation specialists are absolutely thrilled with the ability of this little 34 weeker to be able to latch, swallow and breathe as he is supposed to while feeding. He is ahead of the game and making some huge progress. We we literally told he is THE BEST 34 week gestation baby "nurser" they have ever seen. Even still it isn't easy for him at times, Trev will store the milk for too long in his mouth and swallow a large amount. He chokes, turns blue and scares mom and dad to death as we watch his heart rate, and respiratory rate plummet! It is fairly common for preemies to choke or "forget" to breath as this is completely new for him and he is still getting the hang of it. He also at times is literally too tired to wake up and nurse or gets too tired in the middle of nursing and wears out. This is a very exciting step but can be an extremely slow process with many ups and downs. Trev is also starting to pass Jannell up with his feeding needs and we've had to start supplementing with formula. Jannell has done so well, she sacrifices so much of her time pumping to produce milk for Trev. My beautiful wife has been able to keep up with Trev for 2 months! Far beyond expectations especially with her history and doctors and nurses predictions in situations like this. There is a natural hormone released when you are around your baby that will produce breast milk, that is difficult to release when your baby is at the hospital and not home. Considering the facts, I am so proud of my wife and what she has been able to provide for our little boy, I love you Jannell...