Day 8: One Step Closer

This post is just for Monday since so many great things happened. This morning when I went to give Jude his 7:30 a.m. feeding, I found out that he had gained 2 ounces in the past day. That is awesome! So, he is at an even 5 lbs. He fed well again and had another poopy diaper. Jeremy went in to see him at around 10 a.m. without me and while he was in there, Dr. Zak came by and gave him some news. She told him that Jude's bilirubin levels were down at 10 and therefore he could come off of phototherapy! She also ordered for his IV to stop. They are also turning his isolet temperature to see if he can maintain his own temperature. So, that is three major steps in the right direction!! We were so happy and I couldn't believe it when Jeremy told me so I actually went and asked Dr. Zak again myself. ;) I know that's horrible, I just wanted to hear her say it. So, at the next feeding, they turned his lights off and disconnected his IV. They left his hep block (is that right?) in his arm though in case they need to put his IV back in. They let me finally put a onesie on him and swaddle him with a few blankets to make sure he stayed warm. Later on today I get to give him my first bath!! And, to top it all off, the nurse went and asked the doctor if Jude could stay in here with me tonight and she said yes!!! Wow, so many great things all in one day. I can't begin to tell you how grateful I am for this moment. I am amazed at Jude's progress and at the faithfulness of God that He would bring our child to health and allow us to experience him as we were intended to do. I am so excited about him sleeping in here with me. I probably won't sleep but that's ok. ;) Thank you so much for your prayers, I know that God has answered them. Dr. Zak anticipates us going home Wednesday. Jude has to get his hearing screening and a car seat test where he has to sit in his car seat for 1 hour and they monitor his O2 saturation to make sure he is getting adequate oxygenation. Otherwise, they are really only keeping him here for observation to make sure everything goes as planned. Thanks again for all of your prayers and support and keep them coming!!