Baby Will.......
A Short Birth Story
I have been trying to write this post for some time but as you can imagine my life changed one night on June 8th, 2012. And I find myself busy traveling to and from the hospital while still taking care of my family at home. I want to share a few things on the blog but I have journaled every detail of his birth and my thoughts and feelings about that, and with every visit I write what the nurse tells me and how Will is doing on that particular visit.
I went into the hospital bleeding. But, my thoughts told me, "I've been here before for this and it will resolve and I will soon be home." On the morning of June 7th I began having contractions, which had happened before so I didn't think too much of it, unitl that evening when they just never stopped, only to become harder and more frequent. I knew that night I would have Will soon. With tears in my eyes I asked Father in Heaven to please prepare me for what was to come. I asked for him to please help me endure this time, I was scared- I had never been through anything like this before. I was relieved when the doctor checked me late that night on June 7th, to find that my cervix hadn't changed. This was one more false sense of security because the morning of June 8th came and I was laboring hard and fast. This lasted all day. At 8:00pm that evening Dr. Duncan checked me and the sweet woman looked me in my eyes and said, I'm sorry Shauna you're going to have your baby now, I was dilated to a seven As I wept, I looked at my sweet husband and said, "I'm so sorry"....over and over again.
I was rushed out of my room in my bed, to labor and delivery. It was there that they gave me an epidural, an IV for fluids and some other things. But, I wasn't to deliver in the labor and delivery section, it was too far from the NICU, I had to deliver in the Operating Room right next door to the NICU. Kirk was behind me and the NICU team was behind him waiting for Will. The birth was easy as he was only 2lb 3oz. But, I could hear his heart rate dropping and I began to push without contractions because I was scared for our baby. The nurses had to get a hold of me and tell me to stop, to just push with contractions, he would be here any moment. Two big blessings occurred in the next moments. First, Will came out in his water sack, unbroken. The parinatologists gave the delivering doctor specific instructions to try and deliver Will in his water bag because it would give a cushion for his head and his vital organs that were still so immature. As he came out everyone was fascinated because this rarely happens. I was relieved to see he had a little fat roll at the back of his neck, he was a bit bigger than I thought he would be. I also delivered him breech. Upon coming out, Dr. Duncan looked up and said, "oh my, this should have been a C-Section." She had confused his bum with his head, which is easy at the gestation of 26 weeks. After having six vaginal deliveries, I wanted no part in a C-Section, I would still be in the hospital right now. Being so small, having him breech was not a risk. They found he had been losing blood into his own water bag. I was losing blood too. Upon his arrival he needed advanced resuscitation, or CPR with chest compressions. He responded quickly and by five minutes old his Apgar scores were good. He had two blood transfusions in the following days and I had one more to add to the two transfusions I had upon admittance to the hospital.
I have been trying to write this post for some time but as you can imagine my life changed one night on June 8th, 2012. And I find myself busy traveling to and from the hospital while still taking care of my family at home. I want to share a few things on the blog but I have journaled every detail of his birth and my thoughts and feelings about that, and with every visit I write what the nurse tells me and how Will is doing on that particular visit.
I went into the hospital bleeding. But, my thoughts told me, "I've been here before for this and it will resolve and I will soon be home." On the morning of June 7th I began having contractions, which had happened before so I didn't think too much of it, unitl that evening when they just never stopped, only to become harder and more frequent. I knew that night I would have Will soon. With tears in my eyes I asked Father in Heaven to please prepare me for what was to come. I asked for him to please help me endure this time, I was scared- I had never been through anything like this before. I was relieved when the doctor checked me late that night on June 7th, to find that my cervix hadn't changed. This was one more false sense of security because the morning of June 8th came and I was laboring hard and fast. This lasted all day. At 8:00pm that evening Dr. Duncan checked me and the sweet woman looked me in my eyes and said, I'm sorry Shauna you're going to have your baby now, I was dilated to a seven As I wept, I looked at my sweet husband and said, "I'm so sorry"....over and over again.
I was rushed out of my room in my bed, to labor and delivery. It was there that they gave me an epidural, an IV for fluids and some other things. But, I wasn't to deliver in the labor and delivery section, it was too far from the NICU, I had to deliver in the Operating Room right next door to the NICU. Kirk was behind me and the NICU team was behind him waiting for Will. The birth was easy as he was only 2lb 3oz. But, I could hear his heart rate dropping and I began to push without contractions because I was scared for our baby. The nurses had to get a hold of me and tell me to stop, to just push with contractions, he would be here any moment. Two big blessings occurred in the next moments. First, Will came out in his water sack, unbroken. The parinatologists gave the delivering doctor specific instructions to try and deliver Will in his water bag because it would give a cushion for his head and his vital organs that were still so immature. As he came out everyone was fascinated because this rarely happens. I was relieved to see he had a little fat roll at the back of his neck, he was a bit bigger than I thought he would be. I also delivered him breech. Upon coming out, Dr. Duncan looked up and said, "oh my, this should have been a C-Section." She had confused his bum with his head, which is easy at the gestation of 26 weeks. After having six vaginal deliveries, I wanted no part in a C-Section, I would still be in the hospital right now. Being so small, having him breech was not a risk. They found he had been losing blood into his own water bag. I was losing blood too. Upon his arrival he needed advanced resuscitation, or CPR with chest compressions. He responded quickly and by five minutes old his Apgar scores were good. He had two blood transfusions in the following days and I had one more to add to the two transfusions I had upon admittance to the hospital.
A Different Journey
You can imagine all of the different thoughts that have come to mind, the prayers, the contemplating and the pondering. Some people that find out we have a micro premature baby are somewhat trivial, telling us, "everything will turn out, all will be well." I don't mind this, it's somewhat reassuring and it almost always tells me that they have dealt with something like this first hand themselves. But, for me and my family this is our first time experiencing anything like this. Everything was cut short, my growing tummy, wearing maternity clothes, gaining weight, feeling our baby move inside of me, the anticipation of the coming due date and the actual delivery of a full term baby. But, this was not meant for us this time, for some reason. And this is what I'm thankful for. I'm thankful for six healthy babies that I held straight after, that nursed moments after, that were with me, for me to love right then and there. I'm thankful for Will and his life. I'm extremely thankful for the NICU. Once you become acquainted with it, it's amazing what they can do and how they help these sweet little spirits to thrive. I am so thankful for my lovely husband, Kirk. With tears in my eyes as I write this, that man and I were meant to be together in this life and forever. He puts me at ease, he loves me, he has a way of carrying me through- I wouldn't want to go through this with anyone but him.
I am thankful for this trial. Yes, I am. My life has changed over night, I have instantly adapted to visiting our baby two times a day a few miles away. Pumping my milk every hour and a half during the day and no more than every three hours through the night. The difference in this journey is that we are Will's parents but in a different way right now. Mostly we are spectators watching from the outside. And slowly we are being phased into his life. I held him for the first time today, June 19th, 2012. I was elated. He was so soft, so small and so fragile. He's precious, a sweet spirit that has graced us in this way.
A few days after I was home, I sat by the tub and watched my older baby Summer take a bath. I sat there the whole forty minutes and watched her play. I didn't want to take my eyes off of her. And I realized that going through something like this, something so unexpected and dire had changed me forever. I can't explain the way I feel so much. In one word it would be, humbled. And this is why I am thankful for this trial. Heavenly Father has gently tethered me, so that I will get closer to him, so that I will pray more, so that I will try to be more like our Savior, Jesus Christ. I know we are greatly blessed no matter what happens.
You can imagine all of the different thoughts that have come to mind, the prayers, the contemplating and the pondering. Some people that find out we have a micro premature baby are somewhat trivial, telling us, "everything will turn out, all will be well." I don't mind this, it's somewhat reassuring and it almost always tells me that they have dealt with something like this first hand themselves. But, for me and my family this is our first time experiencing anything like this. Everything was cut short, my growing tummy, wearing maternity clothes, gaining weight, feeling our baby move inside of me, the anticipation of the coming due date and the actual delivery of a full term baby. But, this was not meant for us this time, for some reason. And this is what I'm thankful for. I'm thankful for six healthy babies that I held straight after, that nursed moments after, that were with me, for me to love right then and there. I'm thankful for Will and his life. I'm extremely thankful for the NICU. Once you become acquainted with it, it's amazing what they can do and how they help these sweet little spirits to thrive. I am so thankful for my lovely husband, Kirk. With tears in my eyes as I write this, that man and I were meant to be together in this life and forever. He puts me at ease, he loves me, he has a way of carrying me through- I wouldn't want to go through this with anyone but him.
I am thankful for this trial. Yes, I am. My life has changed over night, I have instantly adapted to visiting our baby two times a day a few miles away. Pumping my milk every hour and a half during the day and no more than every three hours through the night. The difference in this journey is that we are Will's parents but in a different way right now. Mostly we are spectators watching from the outside. And slowly we are being phased into his life. I held him for the first time today, June 19th, 2012. I was elated. He was so soft, so small and so fragile. He's precious, a sweet spirit that has graced us in this way.
A few days after I was home, I sat by the tub and watched my older baby Summer take a bath. I sat there the whole forty minutes and watched her play. I didn't want to take my eyes off of her. And I realized that going through something like this, something so unexpected and dire had changed me forever. I can't explain the way I feel so much. In one word it would be, humbled. And this is why I am thankful for this trial. Heavenly Father has gently tethered me, so that I will get closer to him, so that I will pray more, so that I will try to be more like our Savior, Jesus Christ. I know we are greatly blessed no matter what happens.
William Patrick Klippel
Here he is, the sweet boy. He will only get better looking. :) I just want to squeeze him and rub him. But, not yet. In time though, for sure.
His health is good now. They describe him as being small but not sick. Some babies in the NICU are not only small but sick too. So far Will has no bleeding in his brain, he will not need heart surgery and he is infection free thus far. They keep telling us that things are going really well but not to expect it to remain this way. He will most likely pick up some type of infection along the way, need more help with his breathing, etc. They say there are lots of "ups and downs." We just try to remain faithful and positive. I believe that positive thinking brings positive outcomes.
Here he is, the sweet boy. He will only get better looking. :) I just want to squeeze him and rub him. But, not yet. In time though, for sure.
His health is good now. They describe him as being small but not sick. Some babies in the NICU are not only small but sick too. So far Will has no bleeding in his brain, he will not need heart surgery and he is infection free thus far. They keep telling us that things are going really well but not to expect it to remain this way. He will most likely pick up some type of infection along the way, need more help with his breathing, etc. They say there are lots of "ups and downs." We just try to remain faithful and positive. I believe that positive thinking brings positive outcomes.
This is the little baby boy from above, a good perspective and his home will be right here for the next two and a half to three months.
As you can see the NICU has been our home away from home also. I can visit anytime I want night or day. My routine right now is to come in the morning and then in the evening with Kirk.
All of the children have been in to see him except Shane and Summer. I like that I have a picture of Reece touching Will, because although Will is small I can see that he looks so much like Reecey!!!
Happy Father's Day to Kirk. Will opened his eyes for the first time on Daddy's Day.
All of the children have been in to see him except Shane and Summer. I like that I have a picture of Reece touching Will, because although Will is small I can see that he looks so much like Reecey!!!
Happy Father's Day to Kirk. Will opened his eyes for the first time on Daddy's Day.
Happy to be his mom.
We love you Will. You have been born into a family, a big family that loves you so much. You have three big sisters and three big brothers. With a mom and a dad who love each other so much. When I held you today I sang to you a song called, "Families can be together Forever." This is what we believe. We will always be here to support you, whatever your needs are. And although this journey is starting out so differently from the rest, we still appreciate it so much, and we are embracing it because we love you and our Heavenly Father who has a plan for you.
Loving you always,
Mommy
Loving you always,
Mommy
PS. Kirk and I thank all those who have reached out. There are so many. There have been sincere embraces out of love and concern, meals made for us...as we are so busy traveling to the hospital, care for our children, prayers that have lifted and lightened our burdens, kind words, sweet acts of service and much more. Thank you to those who commented on the last post upon hearing that we had our baby early-so kind of you to respond. And a special thanks to our family, moms and dads, close family members and friends who have stepped in, stopped their lives momentarily to help with our life as we are in need. We love you all so much.
Sincerely,
Kirk and Shauna
sweet Shauna...was this post for me? I'm going to pretend it's all for me. did you get my message just a few hours ago asking for another blog update?? :) you look absolutely fantastic. and William is looking great! growing! those cute little hands. do you call him Will or William or both?? thanks for all the pics. love you tons,
ReplyDeleteJill
Shauna, I have been sitting on pins and needles waiting for an update on Baby Boy! And if the photos are any indication, he is so tiny and perfect and wonderful beyond words.
ReplyDeletep.s. More superficially (I so hope you have a laugh at this one), you are seriously, like the most beautiful person that has ever walked in a hospital. Someday when it comes time for me to have a pup, you will need to give me lessons on this secret art of yours.
Kat, I sometimes have these weird thoughts like what awards would go to who with regard to blogging. And you are always the winner for best commenter, that is not a word, but oh well. And it's not just my blog, you are great at commenting on all the other blogs too. Thank you for your prayers and thoughts.
DeleteWell, thank you very much for the compliment. I owe it all to my mom as she has always put effort into being put together on a daily basis. She never went over board but always looked nice and put a bit of makeup on. I am the same way. Plus, when you are going through hard times, it's not so bad to cope by trying to look half way decent....hahahahahaha. Thank you all the same, it's very flattering especially coming from a beauty like yourself. Love to you always,
Shauna
Agreed Kat! I wish I looked half as good on a normal day!
Deleteokay, checked you blog again. what can I say. I'm your number one blog stalker. and now there was text! text! so much better with the story to go along with the pics....In my last comment, I almost said, pictures were nice, but can you add some text so we know what's going on? and then I thought...don't push her. look what she's been through! anyways, I'm rambling. that's so great you are journaling everything. I loved reading your birth experience.
ReplyDeleteSweet Jill, this post was for you! I got your message a while ago and thought, "Okay I'm going to post, I've got time for once." I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I love you for thinking of us and for praying for us. And you crack me up. I love your blog too. I miss you and love you lots.
ReplyDeleteShauna
Hey Jill, we call him him both but I think Will is so cute. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
DeleteI am so glad you took the time to blog. I have been wondering and praying and hoping regarding how William and your family are doing. Such a hard trial but there is so much strength in your words and your perspective. I am so glad you feel the blessings amid this life change. Love you Shauna and Kirk.
ReplyDeleteOh wow. I don't even know what to say other than that baby Will is beautiful and I am so glad you posted this. I have been thinking of you a lot and hoping that you and your entire family are doing okay. I will be keeping you in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteHi Amy, thank you for your kind words, they are comforting and thoughtful. We are doing well. And we are praying for you and your family as well. We are excited for your family to grow as well. Love,
DeleteShauna
I am so glad he is doing well. I was worried when we hadn't had any updates on the blog. I think people like to say stuff like it will be ok to make themselves feel better. We would tell people Roman had Open Heart surgery and they would be like "Ok, great now he is ok." What they don't realize is that Roman will never be like any other child. Yes, he is OK for the moment, but he has a lifetime of surgeries a head of him.
ReplyDeleteShauna, thanks for telling me about this update. I'm beyond happy that you and Will are doing well. He looks like a strong baby and you are an amazing mother for him and the rest of your beautiful family. I'm just so glad it is all positive news!
ReplyDeleteI thought I sent you an invite to the family blog? I'll send another one...do I have the right email, I wonder? ;)
Shauna, I feel so far away here in Utah, with no ability to help, but my prayers are with you and so happy to get the update. I too was worried with no news coming.The dignified way that you are handling this is an inspiration to us all. May the Lord continue to bless you and your family.
ReplyDeleteLovely words from a lovely woman. I am so inspired by your hope and gratitude, we love you and your family so much Shauna, and we can't wait to see Will's progression.
ReplyDeleteMy gosh Shauna...what a beautiful picture to accompany a really amazing story. Just as Marie said, you are such an inspiration. Truly.
ReplyDeleteI'm wishing you all the best. Crossing my fingers that time flies by and Will gets bigger and bigger!
Oh my, you're making me cry! He's so tiny and sweet, a true treasure. It will only go up from here and suddenly it will not even show he was premature, he'll catch up! Hugs to you all! :-)
ReplyDeleteShauna.....what a powerful and amazing story. Filled with love and beauty. I admire you. Will, is a true gift.
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh. I am so glad that you're both alright, and I was gripped the entire way through reading this post! You're so brave!
ReplyDeleteShauna...I am so happy that you shared this beautiful account of William's arrival. Your words are so perfect, and reading this had me feeling so many emotions, but especially hopefulness and positivity for William and you and your amazing family. God was (and IS) watching over you guys. Such a blessing that William is not a "sick" NICU baby....he is precious in all of his tiny glory. Thank God also for all the amazing nurses and doctors and lifesavers....sometimes it takes a story like yours to realize how very much GOOD is happening in this world. Praying as always...can't wait to watch beautiful William grow. xoxo
ReplyDeleteIam thanking God right now that you are all-right and so is Will.:)
ReplyDeleteI have heard that kids who are born in the 'sack' are supposed to be lucky. Well, someone' told me so, and her boy was born with the sack intact!