40 Weeks

Today was supposed to be Eli's birthday. It has been a long road getting to this point—almost 13 weeks in the NICU—and although it's been difficult to see our child struggle, in some ways this experience has been a blessing.

Paul and I are essentially in mommy and daddy boot camp now, under the charge of our wonderful nurses. Once we take Eli home, we'll know so much about how to care for him as a newborn, unlike most first-time parents who have to figure it out for themselves. We're especially grateful to Mariamma, one of the assistant head nurses, for the two full days she spent with us this week. She showed us that we could handle our son without fear of breaking him. And she made us feel like real parents who can make decisions about his care.

Another unforeseen benefit of our time in the NICU is that we've made a second family. The doctors and nurses who have lovingly nurtured Eli—and his parents—will always have a place in our hearts. So, too, will the other NICU parents with whom we've shared a spectrum of emotions.

We've also had the opportunity to really get to know Eli before bringing him home. We've bonded with him over these three months and learned a great deal about his personality. It's fun to set up his room at home with such a strong sense of who he is.









So, thank you Eli. Thanks for allowing us to share this journey with you; it's only just the beginning.