We are finally HOME! On Monday, we had our first "sleepover" as a family in Layla's room in the hospital. They refer to this as the "apartment" stay where we took over all cares for Layla in preparation for going home. Since Layla will need to be on oxygen for the next few months, we had to learn how to use the home-going oxygen and monitor systems. We also learned how to do her inhaler treatment and how to give her the medicines and supplements she will be on. She did super, sleeping in 3 to 4 hour stretches all through the night. On Tuesday morning, we were ready for discharge! It was a bittersweet moment for sure- we couldn't wait to get home, but we're definitely going to miss our new "family" at the U of I. 

Layla is doing really well with the transition to home so far. Layla has maintained her 3 to 4 hour sleep/wake schedule and is still doing great with her feedings and breathing. She's met her big brother Hendrix and sis Chloe and doesn't seem to mind their company. Hendrix is VERY interested in Layla. He is sure to greet her every morning and rushes to her bedside whenever she cries. He is never too far from her, we think he is going to be a great protector- so long as he doesn't continue to trip on her oxygen tube and monitor cords. Chloe seems totally indifferent to her, and usually keeps her distance (typical cat) 😉 

We made our first venture out together on Thursday for an appointment with our local pediatrician. She is now 6 lbs 4 oz and 19 inches long and is right on track with her development according to her gestational age. Next week, we will head back to Iowa City for our first follow-up appointment to check on her eyes. We will continue to frequent Iowa City in the coming months/years to the neonatology specialty clinic to wean her oxygen and follow up on her development. We will also begin home nursing twice a week, and have the option to continue physical and occupational therapies as needed. 

It feels great to finally be home and begin our life together as a family. We are so excited to introduce Layla to everyone, just as soon as this the threat of RSV, cold and flu has passed, and her lungs and immune system are a bit more mature. We can't thank everyone enough for the continued love and support throughout this journey. 

With love-
#laylastrong