Sunday, August 5, 2007

My Beautiful Ladies


Okay folks I apologize for the sudden change in narrators, but Marisa is a little down and out right now. Before we get into anything, let me clarify - both Marisa and Mia are doing great! They both went through a lot, but both of these girls are tough as nails and are coming back through with shining colors. Mia was born 7 lbs 15 oz, 21 inches long, at 8:37 PM, after her Mom being induced at 8:15. 12 hours of labor, with the last four being the most intense.

We had a very intense delivery, Marisa had to fight for every inch of it, which was followed by an umbilical cord wrapped around the neck, and the on top of it all, shoulder dystocia. This is basically where the baby's shoulder becomes trapped behind the pubic bone, and we've had several people tell us that shoulder dystocia is perhaps an OB's worst nightmare to face in the delivery room.

That being said, with a combination of a superhuman effort by Marisa, and the expertise of our incredible doctor (Dr. Dill) and nurse team, our girl came out without any injuries related to the position she was in. Marisa as a result of the unbelievable force of pushing had actually seperated her pubic symphysis, or pubic bone. This bone is essentially held together with cartilidge, and that cartilidge becomes loose during pregnancy as a normal occurance, but with the baby locked in and Marisa pushing like a freight train, it didn't hold. As a result, her first day afterwards she could only walk backwards, and that's using the term walking loosely. More of a shuffle.

Mia on the other hand had some minor issues of her own, with some acid reflux. This was easily fixed by giving her a heavier rice formula to supplement Marisa's breastfeeding, and ensuring that after we feed her to burp her and keep her upright for at least 20-30 minutes.

But now, let's get to today. Marisa had an x-ray and verified what we knew - separation of the pubic symphysis. That being said, my wife, the badest, toughest, most beautiful gal I've every known has been using a walker to get around with a physical therapist, took a shower on her own, and is able to sit up in bed by herself. When I ask if she's pushing herself to far, she simply smiles and replies "I'm fine - I have a daughter to take care of."

Mia is eating and holding her food down well - she's a champion eater, and she's literally sitting Marisa's arms right now. We're going to head home tonight or tomorrow, and we are a family. Together at last, gratefull for all of our support and love and friendships, and so full of love we could burst.

We love you all, and we can't wait for all of you to meet her.



4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thanks so much for the update on the blog. I for one was anxiously awaiting more photos. Marisa and Mia look lovely - as strong, powerful women that they are. Congratulations to all, and don't let this small pebble thrown your way discourage you both. With the strengths you both have been given you will do great to provide a safe, loving environment for Mia's developments. You will do great with Mia and she is the angel that we prayed for. Love aunt Mirta

Anonymous said...

Wow! I am soooooo glad Mom and baby Mia are doing ok. And Pete you are so strong. I am thinking about you guys. Congratulations. Thanks for the update on the blog. It is the best way for us all to feel a part of it. Every day, Mia and Marisa will get stronger. Love, Lee Ann

Unknown said...

Great news! Congratulations to you both. I wish all of you the very best.

Bob Rice

Hanna said...

We couldn't be happier for your new family! All of these challenges you've faced only make you stronger and bring you closer together. Mia is so lucky to have such wonderful parents. Best wishes! Love Hanna and Victor