Vance’s Weekly Update!
Our updates have started to slow down a bit lately—and we couldn’t be happier about that. We used to dream about the days when we’d have “boring” updates to share, and now here we are. It’s hard to believe that almost four months have passed since our NICU journey began, and we’re now just around the corner from Vance’s original due date: April 19th. That day will mark four months of strength, resilience, and love from our little warrior.
Vance is growing like crazy! Today he weighed in at 6 lbs 15.5 oz—just a breath away from officially hitting 7 pounds. Watching him fill out has been such a joy. His once-roomy preemie clothes are starting to look a little snug, and we think he only has about a week left in them before it’s time to size up. Thankfully, his amazing grandparents made sure his closet is fully stocked with newborn clothes for a smooth (and very stylish) transition!
Breathing-wise, Vance continues to do great on his RAM cannula, and this week he made a big step—he’s now on straight CPAP settings! This means he’s doing all the breathing on his own without getting any extra “backup” breaths from the machine. The CPAP still gives him some pressure support to help keep his tiny lungs open, but otherwise, it’s all him! This is a huge milestone on the path toward lower respiratory support, and it’s another beautiful reminder of how strong and capable he is. The plan for now is to continue building on his nutrition, keep growing, and slowly wean his oxygen needs—slow and steady, as always. We remind ourselves often: this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Another exciting step for Vance has been practicing his milk drops. This sweet little routine is part of his journey toward feeding by mouth. While he sucks on his pacifier, we give him small drops of milk to help him learn how to coordinate sucking and swallowing. It’s a simple, early step, but it’s also so important. He still has a little way to go before he’s ready to try bottles—he needs to be on even lower respiratory support first—but this early practice is laying the foundation. We’re soaking up these sweet bonding moments while we patiently wait for him to be ready.
Every single day, Vance continues to amaze us. His strength, his spirit, and yes—his cuteness—just keep growing. We are endlessly proud of him and forever thankful for all of you who continue to follow his journey, pray for him, and send love and positive energy our way. Please keep those good vibes coming as our little man continues to grow stronger and heal those amazing lungs of his. 💙
