Aorta

We went for a followup appointment tonight with our pediatric cardiologist, Professor Rein.  All looked the same, and good, considering the heart defect.  There is one thing that came up.  They are monitoring the development of the heart.  One of the criteria for the baby to be able to have the heart surgeries, with as few complications as possible, is the size of the aorta. 

Unfortunately, since our last appointment, 6 weeks ago, the aorta hasn't grown and is "incredibly small".  This isn't unexpected given the HLHS, but there is a minimum that they are looking for, to insure better results.  We aren't at that minimum.

We will be seeing Professor Rein again in 6 weeks and meeting with our surgeon in the next few weeks.

Day by Day

I reached out to my fellow Heart Mamas.  I had been having a hard time coping with the unknown and fear of what might happen.  The best advice I was given by all of them, was to live day by day.  Right now, the baby is healthy inside of me.  Right now, I am home with my two wonderful kids.  Each day will bring what it brings, but I need to live in the day and enjoy what I have right now.

It doesn't make the future any less unpredictable, but it gives me the opportunity to breathe and relax.

Meanwhile, Tehilla's kicks are strong and growing stronger every day.  I never experienced the kind of kicks that I am experiencing with her, with my other pregnancies.  It's as if she is letting me know that she is strong and a fighter.  She will need it, to overcome what is in store for her.

The Waiting Game

I'm now 28 weeks pregnant and working hard to get things organized and taken care of before this baby comes. It's been an emotional roller coaster ride this entire time, but this waiting period seems to be extremely difficult.  It just feels like we are waiting for disaster to strike.  Keeping organized and busying myself with tasks helps in some way to feel like I'm productive.  It's still not easy.

We've now told many of our friends and family.  Thankfully, everyone has responded with a desire to help. 

Next appointment with Professor Rein is in two weeks. G-d willing, everything in the baby's heart will still be developing at a normal rate.