5/11 update from 5/8 interview

Carissa, you look pretty intense and ready for this interview. Can you take a deep breath, maybe calm down a little, and answer a few questions?

Great. First, why don't you tell everyone what you do when your nurse is not watching.

Now you know you're not supposed to pull the nasal cannula out, but I do understand that it bothers you. How are you going to feel when they tell you that you can remove the cannula and the other wires and go home with us?

You look pretty excited. You aren't always that happy because sometimes the other babies around you wake you up with their crying. How does that make you feel?

Wow, you look like someone just traded your pacifier for a sour pickle. It probably isn't that bad when they cry. What do they sound like?

That's pretty loud. Is there some way you can think of that might help them to stop crying?

I don't think putting your fist in their mouth is going to help them. I hope you didn't learn that from Uncle Keith...but back to the questions about life here in NICU level 2. We are happy you don't have to be on any medications right now but we do see them giving you vitamins. How do they taste?

I'm glad I don't have to take those vitamins. You seem to already be close to your family and you have always responded very well to Mommy being nearby and she spends a lot of time with you. How would you react if someone said you didn't have the best Mommy in the world?

Well then, I would recommend against anyone saying that. You look like you pack a pretty good punch for someone weighing 5# 6 oz. today. Well, I better let you get some rest but I wanted to let you know there has been some talk of maybe throwing a party to let everyone meet you a little while after you come home. What would you do if you came out of your room and everyone was there waiting to surprise you?

That's a good look for you and I think everyone would enjoy getting to see that look in person.

• Please thank God for another couple of good days and for Carissa's amazing progress these last 25 days.
• Please pray that she can gain the strength she needs to have to nurse and take a bottle without getting too tired out.
• Please pray that her lungs can continue to mature and her breathing progress so that she can start being weaned off the oxygen support.
• Please continue to pray for Dante who was across from Carissa in level 3 and for his mom, Misty, who went back to work today with a heart functioning only at 30%.
• Please pray that God will continue to get the glory as people hear of Carissa's amazing progress and as she continues to heal.

Thanks so much for all y'alls prayers and please keep interceding for Carissa,

Terry