Preemie Thanks… (11-24-11)

A fellow preemie mama, Jessi, made a request for a paragraph on what preemie parents are thankful for in regards to their preemie to be sent to her with a picture. She did a three part series titled “In Gratitude”. Here is what I sent. You can read all about her little miracle and the other preemies on their blog Life With Jack.

First and foremost, I am extremely thankful for my son’s fighting spirit. Somehow, someway, he survived for about six to seven weeks in utero after my placenta stopped working until his emergency delivery. Cayden Russ arrived in this world weighing 1lb 5.9oz and was 12.5 inches long. Cayden fought hard during his 124 day NICU stay, struggling to overcome what should have been insurmountable odds. His fighting spirit still shines as he works to overcome the difficulties his prematurity have presented for him. I’m thankful for the little things….the little things that we were told we may never get to experience with Cayden. I’m thankful for his charming smile, his infectious giggle, his sweet hugs, and his open mouth kisses. I’m thankful that I get to snuggle him every night and for his little hand as he holds mine. I’m thankful as I watch him walk across the room. I’m thankful that I get to watch him grow and develop and continue to “beat the odds” at his pace, especially when he exerts his independence. My heart swells every time he blows me kisses or as he makes his little index finger and thumb in the shape of an “L” to sign in his modified manner “I Love You”. I try so hard not to take those little things for granted and appreciate them for what they are, everyday miracles. Things could have been so different, yet, God chose me to be his mama, and for that, I’m the most thankful. It’s the best job in the entire world. I love this little boy more than words can express. He’s amazing!

Tami

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