IV Free

When we arrived at the NICU on Tuesday morning we learned that all three of our sons were now off of IV.  On Sunday, David's IV was removed.  On Monday, William's IV was taken out.  And, on Tuesday, Isaac became IV free.  The boys had been receiving fluids through the IV along with a nutritional supplement.  The removal of the IV means that boys are now receiving everything they need through feeding.  The boys feeding tubes remain in place for the time being.  Kristen and I make the trek into the hospital once a day and are usually around for one feeding.   She has successfully nursed all three boys--though at different times each has shown varying levels       of enthusiasm.  When Kristen is not around--or the boys fail to eat enough--they are fed either through a bottle or through their feeding tube (which is inserted through the nose and down into the stomach).   (Above Picture: William)  

David

For the rest, everything is going well.  Isaac continues to breathe well on his own.  William seems unaffected by his full leg cast.  David is proud that even though he is the smallest he has had the least complications.  At this time, the boys remain hooked up to the electrodes that monitor heartrate, breathing, etc. They're maintaining their own body heat so the roof on their incubators have been lifted.  And, they have been put on the list to be transferred to Abbotsford Regional Hospital (much closer to where we are living).  However, it may take a bit of time for them to get moved because it means 3 spaces opening up simultaneously. 

Isaac

Kristen is also recovering well.  She still has a fair bit of pain and tires easily, but all and all she's making steady improvements everyday.  Even though we are looking forward to taking the boys home, we're also thankful that their time in the NICU will allow Kristen the time she needs to heal and recover. We are at peace knowing that our three sons are in very good hands.

Abigail moved back into our apartment yesterday after spending the past few days with Grandma and Grandpa Hoogland.  She's enjoyed being reunited with mom and spending time with Grandma Van Kuiken.  She was also happy to receive a parcel from her pre-school class back in Smithers.  On Friday we plan to welcome Dana back as well.  For the time being she's been having fun having grandpa and grandma to herself and pretending to perform C-section surgery on grandpa in which her teddy bears have taken the place of David, Isaac, and William. 

Thanks for for your ongoing prayer and support for us!

(From left to right below: Isaac, William, David)