105 Day NICU Update

Hi friends and family,

As you know from my last post, we've been approaching a pivotal point in Clifford's journey. Over the last week, he started to have more episodes where his oxygen saturation would drop. This prompted the doctors to conduct a bronchoscopy, a procedure where they insert a small camera down Clifford's throat to see what exactly is happening during these episodes. They discovered he has severe tracheomalacia, a condition where his windpipe collapses, making it difficult to stay open on its own. This is due to his prematurity, and thankfully is something he will outgrow in time as he gets bigger and stronger. With this latest update, we've learned that Clifford will undergo a tracheostomy, a procedure to delicately place a breathing tube in his neck for long-term respiratory support. It's not the news we were hoping for, and honestly, we're a little scared. But, we find comfort in knowing that this is the best course for Clifford's continued development and growth!

The upcoming tracheostomy for Clifford brings a lot of emotions, but we're excited to start this next chapter in his journey. With the removal of the tube, we'll finally see his full face for the first time– a moment we've been waiting for! This also means no more constant sedation – he gets to be more present, begin bottle and breastfeeding, and engage with us. We can't wait for Cliff to have the freedom to be a normal baby! After the surgery, we will begin to learn how to care for him with his trach until we can bring him home. This will become our new normal for the next couple of years until he is bigger and stronger and can get off the ventilator and have the trach removed.

Reflecting on this journey, I came across a photo taken after my water broke at 19 weeks. On my to-do list, I had written, "Make it to 23 weeks!"—a significant milestone marking viability, the earliest point a baby stands a chance of surviving. It brought me back to the moment when Codey and I made a promise to fight for our babies regardless of the challenges, back in that Montana hospital. From that point to now—we made it to 24 weeks, overcame numerous infections, and nearly lost Clifford.  We have come a long way. The battle continues, and we know we will overcome everything else that comes our way!

Your love, support, and prayers have gotten us this far - we are incredibly grateful. As Clifford undergoes surgery for his tracheostomy on Wednesday, please say a prayer. ❤️

With gratitude and love,

Sadie