"Thank heaven there is tomorrow. Because there is tomorrow, all our yesterdays have meaning and all our dreams have hope."

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Kangaroo Love


For anyone who has spent a good amount of time in the NICU, you will know that there is something called Kangaroo holding. Most NICU babies are not easily available to be picked up and held, thus making bonding a difficult issue. One of the ways a mother or father can have bonding time with their baby is to do what is called Kangaroo Holding. Basically, it is skin on skin contact with your child.


Something I read today reminded me that I need to write about my Kangaroo time with Gavin. It didn't happen until we were transferred up to PCMC. Gavin had been very unstable up until this point, but one night, after a string of good days, I asked the nurse if I could Kangaroo hold Gavin. Since Gavin couldn't suck, I never was able to breastfeed him, and that is something most mother's crave to do - especially when you are told that your child isn't able. Funny how that works, huh? I just wanted to feel his little body against mine. Anyway, one night, our nurse Melissa drew the curtains around his bed and helped place him on my chest in between a button down sweater I was wearing. Thinking about it now just gives me the chills. I remember sitting there for about three hours rocking and singing to Gavin and telling him all about his daddy. During those hours I held him Kangaroo-style, his breathing remained steady and his oxygen saturation stayed in the 90s. Maybe it was just as therapeutic for him as it was for me. I know it may sound like a little thing to many, but holding his little body against my chest was the most fulfilling experience. Oh, how I love my little boy.

4 comments:

Jessica said...

What a sweet moment. I know it was very therapeutic for him as well as you. I don't think there is a better feeling in the world than being with this special spirit who just entered this world and radiates a special love like no other. Knowing he is there to share this love with you and be with you forever is such an awesome blessing.

cassi said...

I love that you have that moment to remember!

Steve, Misti, Madison, and Mason said...

Kangaroo care is great for both mom and baby. I am glad you had that time together

Melissa said...

My name is melissa. I am also an angel mom. My daughter died about 4 years ago. She was born with heart problems.
I linked to your blog from another. Thank you for all of the uplifting and wonderful quotes. Your son is beautiful. What aprecious gift!
Melissa Andrew
Intermountain Healing Hearts Angel Chair
www.intermountainhealinghearts.org

PS - good luck with the new little one as I know you are having a roller coaster of emotions!