Terran’s massive vomits continue and his bowel movements are unpredictable… we got to a point where he was pooping once a day for a week, but now he hasn’t had anything material for a couple days. Even still, his bottom has never been as “active” as it should – kids like Terran are typically on the more-poop side of the spectrum. The idea is that maybe his small bowel is getting so full due to low motility that it’s becoming too heavy, weighing down and causing a pinch in the system. In that case, the only way out is up. All this coupled with his constant discomfort and will to eat more breastmilk has led us to: a gastronomy tube (or “g-tube”). Many intestinal failure kids need a g-tube at some point for feeding, but in Terran’s case we’ll use it for decompression. The tube will sit at the top of his stomach and allow us to extract all the “excess” that is currently coming up as vomiting. This tube will help relieve his bloating and discomfort, reduce the pressure on the small bowel and allow it to heal, and let us feed him more! It’s possible we can go to full breastfeeding because there’s no risk of “overfeeding” when we can just remove all the overflow. Another bonus? The GI tract is “dirty” in the sense that this hole doesn’t need a sterile dressing like his central line. There won’t be that added stress of keeping yet another place totally clean. The only thing will be making sure the g-tube juices stay clear of his central line, but that’s true today with any dirt and grime. We’ve been told by Children’s staff that there a lot of Esty shops that sell cute and practical gear for managing central lines & g-tubes. Mama’s going shopping! 🙂
In prep for the g-tube surgery, the surgeon ordered a contrast enema for Terran to get updated data on if there is a functional blockage, or something we wanted to correct “while we’re in there anyway”. Spoiler alert: everything passed through easily – no blockage! The enema study itself was a hilarious experience. Terran didn’t cry, but was so annoyed people were messing with his bottom (who wouldn’t be?) that he kept bearing down and pushing the tube out (along with every ounce of stool he had in waiting)! The radiologist was so astounded she finally gave up and called in reinforcements. Two assistants had to hold the tube in place while she administered the contrast and took the images. “He’s so strong!” is becoming a common statement about Terran.
At home, Terran is starting to interact more. He loves the sing-song melodies of some of his books, gets very excited hearing new sounds, and is intentionally smiling! 😀 He makes all sorts of sounds, but we’re still waiting on the “cooing”. Mostly grunts right now haha! Dad had a stroke of genius to move him to the lower wedge in the bassinet and it greatly reduced his discomfort at night. It’s possible the higher angle was crunching his abdomen and actually adding pressure instead of relieving it. We’re bringing him into bed early in the morning for an hour or two of snuggles before dad goes to work. He’s such a cuddle bug and his happy place is in our arms. Happy to oblige! <3
Love all of Terran’s facial expressions 😇 what a cutie 🥰, and yes, “He is so strong! What a little champion!
Also love those “Terran” expressions. With those baby blue eyes he really charms his way into our hearts. More nursing will be wonderful. And the dimples really make me smile. It’s a delight to see his growth in the photos.All my love, Aunt Lindy
Such great news! His personality is coming through loud and clear! And those dimples… more of his mamma along with those big eyes! He a tough guy and gonna give em all a “ run for the money!” Much love and prayers. Aunt Lisa
Wow! You guys are amazing! I can almost hear him laugh! Keep up the good work. Seems like the G-tube is an improvement??? Hard for me to tell. Bless you for all the pics and news. What a beautiful family1 Luv-ya!
Gramma Goodwin
Yes the g tube is an improvement! Bummer to need another surgery and hole in the body, but it should allow us to relieve his bloated belly and let his gut heal while still practicing feeding by mouth ❤️
What an expressive face! He is a cutie. Give him and kiss and snuggle from Aunt Boo. Love you guys!
Nothing is going to keep Terran Mercury down! I love the stories of his tenacity and strength. He is a force! A beautiful smart little guy…. We are gonna have some fun! ❤️Nana
So glad to hear Terran is feeling better with the G tube! He’s such a sweetie and a real trooper. You and Walker are perfect parents, doing everything possible for your little guy. All our love ❤️ Grammy & Grumpy (I mean Grampy)
You two must be in heaven, just getting to stare at Terran and take in all of his facial expressions! That’s what I would do, anyway…he’s just so much fun!
The G-tube sounds like a blessing and a curse…sorry he had to have more surgery, but glad that he now has a way to relieve his discomfort. And glad that it allows you to breastfeed to your heart’s content–so glad you are able to have that special experience! It sounds like Terran is typically ahead of the curve (consider his mom and dad)–out of the hospital so much earlier than most and so strong. So thankful for all of that! My eyes have been opened–this must be a fairly common occurrence to have entire programs developed to handle cases from in utero and beyond, with each case being very different. I had no idea, but am happy to learn right along with you–and you are such good educators! Thanks for keeping us informed and helping to educate us!