Aunts Joining the Trip - First Six Days
Update on Abby & Ryan via the middle sister, MB
What a whirlwind week its been. The past week has felt like a month, but we wouldn't have it any other way. I've logged over a thousand miles going back and forth between Gainesville and Charlotte. And I'll do it every week if I have to because that's what family does. Family supports, loves, encourages and sticks together.
Since Abby and I are only 13 months apart, we've never really known life without each other. Growing up I always wanted to be like her - even down to a terrible, gosh awful haircut (but that's a story for another day). And over the years that has never changed. It's the persistent, headstrong, loud and courageous personality that I admire.
Abby has always had maternal instincts and last Monday those instincts became a reality. Motherhood is one of the hardest hats to wear. It's a hat of daily ups and downs, finding patience when you're worn thin, and many tears - tears of love, sorrow and so much joy. And Abby has put on her hat which is fits perfectly. It has the colors of bravery, faithfulness and peace.
And the Lord couldn't have chosen a better person to do this journey of parenthood with Abby. Ryan has been by her side. He's slept on the uncomfortable hospital couch while also juggling a teaching job. His patience and dedication showcases his love for Abby and the awesome father that he already is.
Over the past six days, Abby and Ryan have never wavered in their faith. They are two of the most grounded and God-fearing people I know. Throughout this triplet journey, the Lord has answered prayers - big prayers and we know his faithfulness continues. God has amazing plans for this family of five. And I cannot wait to be called Aunt by these sweet love bugs.
Sis #2 here (also known as Aunt Bug)
As MB mentioned, this week has been a roller coaster and the triplets were welcomed into the world with little to no notice on Monday. Abby had been told that things could change quickly being pregnant with triplets and that's exactly what she experienced. Just 15 minutes after eating lunch with our dad and texting with friends, she was informed that she would become a mom that day. After 20 minutes in the operating room, all 3 babies were here and all born at the exact same time (that's likely to be a point of argument for the rest of their lives).
Anxiously in the waiting room, we received news that Abby had begun the recovery process and Maggie, Max, and Miller were admitted into the ICU in the NICU, each showing signs of stability.
24 hours later Abby and Ryan asked me to be one of the four people that would be able to meet the babies while in the NICU. I was beyond honored, ecstatic, and terrified to say the least. So, I'm bringing you updates on the babies because I have been able to meet them and by that I mean stand in their rooms and peer into their foggy isoletes.
Although tiny, Maggie, Max, & Miller are mighty!
Because every hour is a gift and each one is different, I will be sharing specific prayer requests for each baby rather than details.
Maggie
- Pray for oxygen levels
- Pray for hydration of skin
- Pray for blood gas tests and blood cultures
Max
- Pray for fluid & air around lungs
- Pray for fluid in gut to decrease
- Pray for stable stats
- Pray for reduced swelling
- Pray for blood pressure and blood volume
Miller
- Pray for consistent stats
- Pray for digestive system
- Pray for oxygen levels
Abby & Ryan
- Pray for rest
- Pray for patience, courage & strength
- Pray for peace, understanding & hope
Tuesday is a big day for all three babies. Please join us in praying that cultures come back with NO infection & for the development of immune systems.
Although Tuesday is a big day, this journey is long. We ask that you continue to pray over the weeks and months to come.
And a HUGE thank you for every message, call, visit, meal, and prayer. We've felt the love and support. The Gospel has truly been displayed in a tangible way!
Mom getting to touch Maggie for the first time!
When You Walk Into the Room
When You walk into the room Everything changes Darkness starts to tremble At the light that you bring And when You walk into the room Every heart starts burning And nothing matters more Than just to sit here at Your feet And worship You
We love You We'll never stop We can't live without You, Jesus We love You And we can't get enough All this is for You, Jesus Jesus