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| Reading "Thomas" |
Lucas also has a fascination with dishes, and more importantly, with "BUBBLES"...the other day he wanted to play with them and ended up having a bath in the sink :)
Who can resist this face :)
Monday, October 24, 2011
All About Lucas
The weather here in Perth for the last few weeks has been gorgeous! The sun has been shining and the air is warming up. And that means that Lucas gets to go outside and have FUN :) He loves playing with his ride on cars and with our dog.
Lucas also has a fascination with dishes, and more importantly, with "BUBBLES"...the other day he wanted to play with them and ended up having a bath in the sink :)
Who can resist this face :)
Lucas also has a fascination with dishes, and more importantly, with "BUBBLES"...the other day he wanted to play with them and ended up having a bath in the sink :)
Who can resist this face :)
Friday, October 21, 2011
...Comparisons...
Its hard not to compare when you have children. You compare your child to other children of the same or similar age, their weight, height, physical development and speech. You compare the same things between your children, what they were doing at the same age. However, this comparison is not all bad. I have a friends whose boys were walking well before Lucas was, but Lucas was able to talk more than they could. Someone once told me that kids work on one skill at a time, eg walking or talking. Plus when they are older you wouldn't be able to pick who did what first - each child reaches their milestones in their own time. But still, its interesting...
Tahnee @ 8 Weeks Lucas @ 8 Weeks
weight - 50th percentile 97th percentile
length - 75th percentile 90th percentile
Monday, October 17, 2011
CDH Awareness
This CDH Awareness video was created by Danielle Kessner's (CDH Aust President) daughter Tara for her 2011 VCE Media SAT. Please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help spread awareness and information about CDH. Most of you have probably heard of Spina Bifida or Cystic Fibrosis. Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia is as common as these conditions yet most people have never heard. In developed countries 50% of babies born with CDH will die. It is a devastating birth defect.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Health Check-Up
Tahnee's post hospitalisation follow up program involves us meeting with 3 different departments: neonatal registrar, surgery and developmental. Also, for the first week after her discharge we had nurses come out to weigh her, before officially being handed over to the local Child Health Nurse and our GP.
Last Friday we had our first appointment back at PMH. Chris took the afternoon of work, we dropped Lucas off to be babysat by a friend and headed back up the freeway. It was a little odd travelling to PMH with Tahnee, rather than travelling to PMH for her.
When we got to PMH we were lucky enough to get a parking bay almost straight away!! A massive plus as it meant we didn't need to practically stalk people and follow them to their cars as they left :) (Plus, Chris is very lucky with parking at PMH in general...he rarely had to wait long for a car park...unlike yours truly!).
We purposely arrived early so we go stop past Ward 6B and see the nurses. We had found out beforehand that my favourite nurse would be working, meaning we would have a chance to take a photo with her and Tahnee (you would've thought we'd have at least one considering the length of time we were there...). Anyway, when we got to the Ward we saw the ambulance driver who did Tahnee's transfer from KEMH. We hadn't seen him before we left, so it was good to catch up and show him how far Tahnee has come since he first saw her.
Next we stopped at the main desk and the ward clerk went to tell any free staff that we were there. Within a minute there were about 5 staff members crowded around us, wanting to see Tahnee again :) It was nice knowing that she left an impression as much as the staff left one on us. My favourite nurse, Bec, was also one of the staff who came out. Other staff included Cathy, the nursing manager, and the midwife who works the ward. So many familiar faces, who we (I) miss every day. I would love to go back and spend a shift seeing and talking with the nurses, but I definitely don't miss the stress and anxiety associated with having a baby in hospital.
While at the ward we got to stop and talk with Jaime, a fellow CDH mum. Jaime and her husband had a baby boy a week and a half ago. Baby "B" has had his surgery and is doing very well. He is off ventilation, breathing all on his and having his first tastes of milk, and getting lots of mummy and daddy cuddles :) He is doing brilliantly and we are so happy for this family. We know that some of our readers have been praying for this family, and we thank you for that.
We also keep 2 other CDH families in our thoughts and prayers...baby girl "H" and baby boy "R" and their families are in hospitals around Australia and are at various stages in their recovery. Both babies have had their surgeries and are working towards coming off ventilation, feeding and going home. Fight hard little cherubs and stay strong!
Anyway, after talking with Jaime, we headed back down stairs to see the neonatal registrar down in the clinic. We had an opportunity to get Tahnee weighed and measured and then speak with the registrar. This doctor also works on the Ward and knew Tahnee from doing the rounds.
Tahnee is generally doing well. She continues to gain weight and is now a healthy 4.7kg. She hasn't grown in length since birth, but Lucas was a slow grower too (upwards anyway, he didn't have any issues with growing outward!!). She does have a rash over her face and body. We think it could be a heat rash, but we need to monitor it over the next few days.
The registrar also ordered another ultrasound on the lump on her side. She already had an ultrasound here and they determined that it was just her kidney. Since its a very prominent lump, the registrar just wants to make sure and be safe, rather than sorry. So that means another appointment, although the hospital is trying to organise it for the same day as our next clinic appointment early next month.
This coming week Tahnee has two appointments, one with the Child Health Nurse and one with our GP, Dr White, for her 8 week check up and first batch of immunisations. Hopefully she reacts well to these needles!
Wishing our readers a lovely week ahead and will try to update again soon :)
Tamala (& Chris)
Last Friday we had our first appointment back at PMH. Chris took the afternoon of work, we dropped Lucas off to be babysat by a friend and headed back up the freeway. It was a little odd travelling to PMH with Tahnee, rather than travelling to PMH for her.
When we got to PMH we were lucky enough to get a parking bay almost straight away!! A massive plus as it meant we didn't need to practically stalk people and follow them to their cars as they left :) (Plus, Chris is very lucky with parking at PMH in general...he rarely had to wait long for a car park...unlike yours truly!).
We purposely arrived early so we go stop past Ward 6B and see the nurses. We had found out beforehand that my favourite nurse would be working, meaning we would have a chance to take a photo with her and Tahnee (you would've thought we'd have at least one considering the length of time we were there...). Anyway, when we got to the Ward we saw the ambulance driver who did Tahnee's transfer from KEMH. We hadn't seen him before we left, so it was good to catch up and show him how far Tahnee has come since he first saw her.
Next we stopped at the main desk and the ward clerk went to tell any free staff that we were there. Within a minute there were about 5 staff members crowded around us, wanting to see Tahnee again :) It was nice knowing that she left an impression as much as the staff left one on us. My favourite nurse, Bec, was also one of the staff who came out. Other staff included Cathy, the nursing manager, and the midwife who works the ward. So many familiar faces, who we (I) miss every day. I would love to go back and spend a shift seeing and talking with the nurses, but I definitely don't miss the stress and anxiety associated with having a baby in hospital.
While at the ward we got to stop and talk with Jaime, a fellow CDH mum. Jaime and her husband had a baby boy a week and a half ago. Baby "B" has had his surgery and is doing very well. He is off ventilation, breathing all on his and having his first tastes of milk, and getting lots of mummy and daddy cuddles :) He is doing brilliantly and we are so happy for this family. We know that some of our readers have been praying for this family, and we thank you for that.
We also keep 2 other CDH families in our thoughts and prayers...baby girl "H" and baby boy "R" and their families are in hospitals around Australia and are at various stages in their recovery. Both babies have had their surgeries and are working towards coming off ventilation, feeding and going home. Fight hard little cherubs and stay strong!
Anyway, after talking with Jaime, we headed back down stairs to see the neonatal registrar down in the clinic. We had an opportunity to get Tahnee weighed and measured and then speak with the registrar. This doctor also works on the Ward and knew Tahnee from doing the rounds.
Tahnee is generally doing well. She continues to gain weight and is now a healthy 4.7kg. She hasn't grown in length since birth, but Lucas was a slow grower too (upwards anyway, he didn't have any issues with growing outward!!). She does have a rash over her face and body. We think it could be a heat rash, but we need to monitor it over the next few days.
The registrar also ordered another ultrasound on the lump on her side. She already had an ultrasound here and they determined that it was just her kidney. Since its a very prominent lump, the registrar just wants to make sure and be safe, rather than sorry. So that means another appointment, although the hospital is trying to organise it for the same day as our next clinic appointment early next month.
This coming week Tahnee has two appointments, one with the Child Health Nurse and one with our GP, Dr White, for her 8 week check up and first batch of immunisations. Hopefully she reacts well to these needles!
Wishing our readers a lovely week ahead and will try to update again soon :)
Tamala (& Chris)
Friday, October 14, 2011
Family Photos
When we were still pregnant with Tahnee we were told about a fantastic company called Heartfelt. This company is a group of photographers based in each of the states of Australia, who voluntarily take photos of families who have had babies in NICU's. So we took up their offer and had family photos taken a few days after Tahnee was discharged from PMH.
Our photographer, Deanna Whyte, came to our house to do our photo shoot, as we wanted Lucas to be there, and he was not allowed in at the hospital and Tahnee was not allowed out! In preparation we cleaned the whole house, except our room. Upon arrival, Deanna had a look around the house, assertaining the best lighting areas and chose our room!! Instant panic and a super quick tidy up session!! Quite embarrassing, but we had just been very busy while Tahnee was hospitalised that we did not have much time at home and when we were home we spent that time with Lucas, rather than cleaning and tidying!
Anyway, we had photos taken on our bed and also in Tahnee's room. Deanna spent an hour and a half with us, and was most accommodating when Tahnee needed nappy changes and feeding. She was great in that she siezed the moment - at one point Tahnee was in her cot while we were setting up a photo and Lucas climbed up on the cot rail (like he normally does) and spoke to her...so Deanna dropped everything except the camera and took photos :) It was very cute.
Below is a selection of photos...we are finding it VERY difficult to choose just a few to get printed. There are also photos from the session on the top and side of the blog. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do :)
Our photographer, Deanna Whyte, came to our house to do our photo shoot, as we wanted Lucas to be there, and he was not allowed in at the hospital and Tahnee was not allowed out! In preparation we cleaned the whole house, except our room. Upon arrival, Deanna had a look around the house, assertaining the best lighting areas and chose our room!! Instant panic and a super quick tidy up session!! Quite embarrassing, but we had just been very busy while Tahnee was hospitalised that we did not have much time at home and when we were home we spent that time with Lucas, rather than cleaning and tidying!
Anyway, we had photos taken on our bed and also in Tahnee's room. Deanna spent an hour and a half with us, and was most accommodating when Tahnee needed nappy changes and feeding. She was great in that she siezed the moment - at one point Tahnee was in her cot while we were setting up a photo and Lucas climbed up on the cot rail (like he normally does) and spoke to her...so Deanna dropped everything except the camera and took photos :) It was very cute.
Below is a selection of photos...we are finding it VERY difficult to choose just a few to get printed. There are also photos from the session on the top and side of the blog. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do :)
Monday, October 10, 2011
Telethon 2011
Before Tahnee was discharged from PMH, I was talking with another parent of a baby in the NICU. Like us, this couple had never expected to need the services of either PMH or the NICU. And like us, this couple used to watch Telethon in the past and not really give much thought into making a donation.
For non-WA readers, Telethon is a huge event here that attracts many tv personalities along with many volunteers, children's groups and more, all who donate their time to perform on tv for the weekend in order to raise money for PMH and for other children's charities. Viewers, audience members, companies, the state and federal governments and others all make donations to support these wonderful charities.
So back to my story...the couple I was talking to had made the odd donation over the years, without really thinking about where the money would go. Yes, we all know it goes to the hospital, but not the specifics of it...and the benefits it provides patients and families.
However, now that we have a first hand experience of PMH and its services, Telethon has taken on a whole new meaning for us. Not only was Tahnee cared for in high technological surroundings, but we were also given benefits such as free parking, meal vouchers, parent accommodation and access to a parents lounge that provides a coffee machine, tea/coffee making facilities, a tv, breakfast in the form of toast and spreads or cereal, and just being a place to go to take a break but still be close by. These services were provided for us just by the NICU Ward. I'm sure there are more that we are unaware of.
So this weekend is the annual Telethon tv fundraising weekend. So instead of being like us in the past, sitting on the couch and enjoying the entertainment and feeling sorry for the children and parents in the hospital...this year consider making a donation. And that doesn't have to be just a financial donation...there is a big need for volunteers also (both at PMH and KEMH).
There are also other opportunities throughout the year to make a contribution to Telethon. Example include the Chris Mainwaring football tribute match that was held last weekend or the HBF fun run etc.
For more information see the website: http://www.telethon.7perth.com.au/About_Telethon.aspx
For non-WA readers, Telethon is a huge event here that attracts many tv personalities along with many volunteers, children's groups and more, all who donate their time to perform on tv for the weekend in order to raise money for PMH and for other children's charities. Viewers, audience members, companies, the state and federal governments and others all make donations to support these wonderful charities.
So back to my story...the couple I was talking to had made the odd donation over the years, without really thinking about where the money would go. Yes, we all know it goes to the hospital, but not the specifics of it...and the benefits it provides patients and families.
However, now that we have a first hand experience of PMH and its services, Telethon has taken on a whole new meaning for us. Not only was Tahnee cared for in high technological surroundings, but we were also given benefits such as free parking, meal vouchers, parent accommodation and access to a parents lounge that provides a coffee machine, tea/coffee making facilities, a tv, breakfast in the form of toast and spreads or cereal, and just being a place to go to take a break but still be close by. These services were provided for us just by the NICU Ward. I'm sure there are more that we are unaware of.
So this weekend is the annual Telethon tv fundraising weekend. So instead of being like us in the past, sitting on the couch and enjoying the entertainment and feeling sorry for the children and parents in the hospital...this year consider making a donation. And that doesn't have to be just a financial donation...there is a big need for volunteers also (both at PMH and KEMH).
There are also other opportunities throughout the year to make a contribution to Telethon. Example include the Chris Mainwaring football tribute match that was held last weekend or the HBF fun run etc.
For more information see the website: http://www.telethon.7perth.com.au/About_Telethon.aspx
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Tahnee's Baptism
Today we had the occasion of present Tahnee Charisse for baptism. She was baptised by the Reverend Rupke in the Free Reformed Church of Southern River. The same church where we were married and where Lucas was also baptised. (Small fact: for all three special occasion we have had a different minister!).
Tahnee was held by Chris's mum and wore the Vander Linden baptisimal gown. She was a little champion during the service and did not cry at all. We enjoyed coffee, cake, soup and sandwiches with family and friends afterwards. It was a very special day, and one that we had dared not to think about, until she was transferred to PMH and had her surgeries. We are very thankful that we were able to plan for (and have) Tahnee baptised, rather than planning for a funeral, as unfortunately, given the 50/50 chance of survival, this was a possible reality. We give thanks to God for His grace that was provided to Tahnee.
Tahnee was held by Chris's mum and wore the Vander Linden baptisimal gown. She was a little champion during the service and did not cry at all. We enjoyed coffee, cake, soup and sandwiches with family and friends afterwards. It was a very special day, and one that we had dared not to think about, until she was transferred to PMH and had her surgeries. We are very thankful that we were able to plan for (and have) Tahnee baptised, rather than planning for a funeral, as unfortunately, given the 50/50 chance of survival, this was a possible reality. We give thanks to God for His grace that was provided to Tahnee.
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