August 1, 2006 was our first glimpse of NICU life. We were trying grapple with Adeline's struggle to survive while at the same time trying to decide whether or not to deliver the twins at the precariously early age of 24 weeks gestation. Three years ago today, Dr. Kaplan discussed our options/outcomes and took us on an intimate tour of the NICU. One baby stuck in our minds. She was so little, vibrating away on the oscillating ventilator and certainly not easy on a pregnant mother's eyes. She was said to be a 24 weeker. Right then we knew that 24 weeks wasn't an option for our girls. For how could a baby so small and fragile every make it out of the NICU?
The mother of that baby wrote in her journal on that same day. . .
"Dr. Kaplan told me he showed you to a mom who is pregnant with 24-week twins. She may have to deliver as one of her babies isn't doing well. I told Dr. Kaplan to please use our situation to help other families."
That baby was Charlotte, our NICU sorority sister and beloved friend.
We feel very blessed to have watched the girls have fun in the sun today. It takes my breath away to think about where we were three years ago today.
