Neurodevelopment Check

    Since the boys are "premie" babies and spent a stint in the NICU, the neonatologist and neurologist like to do a neurodevelopment check when the babies are between 4-5 months old. Our pediatrician had told us they had written this to her in their discharge summary and we would receive a letter. So, we received the letter two weeks ago stating our appointment date. I have been the skeptical one even going. It said we would meet with the nurse, nurse practitioner, physical therapist and neurologist. To me, it was just a way to charge my insurance. My babies are amazing, doing things normal four month olds would be doing (or at least a lot of things). So, I went in with an apprehensive attitude.
     So, Alan went along with me to the boys appointment this past Friday. Of course it was a morning appointment, which was right during the boys' nap time. This made for lethargic, unhappy babies. The physical therapist came into the room first. She looked at Zachary first. She asked me a lot of questions about if he was doing things and tested him on several things, as well. She was concerned because he wasn't holding his head up like he was supposed to while he went from lying to sitting. Also, he wouldn't stand up for her when he was placed on his feet. She said this was concerning and gave us some exercises to work on with him. She, also, is calling to get in home physical therapy for him. HOWEVER, he did roll over from his tummy to his back for the first time, second time, and third time while lying on the table! (Now he hasn't done it since he has gotten home, but still!). He, also, was good at tracking objects with his eyes.
     Ayden was next. He of course showed off - how he can jump when he puts his feet on the table, grabbing things, and way too active. The only thing she said about him was that his muscles are really tight (which is quite funny since his pediatrician and the GI surgeon both say he has a tight butt, as well). We are going to have to do stretches with him daily to loosen his hamstrings.
     The nurse practitioner looked at them next and it seems everything she checked out was good. They actually liked her and smiled. Then came in the neonatologist/neurologist. He checked out each boy. He confirmed to us that Zachary had a brain bleed (which I told him we were never informed of this in the hospital and not until my pediatrician informed me which I was unhappy about). He said it had cleared by his discharge. As well as, he may have suffered a seizure in the hospital….another bit of information that was new to me. I got pretty emotional and upset because I had not known these things. He said that Zachary is a little behind which may be because of the bleed or may be because of the fact he is just a little lazy, but either way, we will need a follow up appointment in 3 months and at home therapy. Ayden is doing really well. He is right on track. He will have a follow up appointment, as well.
      Oh, and a side note - these boys have GAINED SOME WEIGHT! Zachary is up to 15 lbs 3 oz and Ayden is up to 13 lbs 13 oz. They love their food!
      On the way home and since the appointment I have had a hard time. I have worried about Zach since his birth. I can't even count the times I've asked Alan and my mom if they thought something could be wrong with Zach and they just telling me he is lazy. I have prayed and prayed and continue to pray. He is kinda lazy. He loves to sleep and when he plays, well, he just gets tired quicker - I mean have you seen his belly?? He has actually met the cooing and laughing and attention milestones before his brother. But, the jury is still out on anything. So, I have to just keep praying that there are no true residual effects of his brain bleed or possible seizure.
      These boys are just precious and absolutely hilarious. They have noticed themselves in the mirror the past few days and get really excited about those babies laughing and talking back to them. They are also loving to see each other (FINALLY!). My time is nearing for me to go back to work and I am struggling with even thinking of it, but enjoying each moment with these boys. They are definitely starting to eat more and interested in what everyone else is eating. It's just so crazy how fast they are growing. I'm just going to keep believing my babies are perfect, because that is how God made him. They are such sweet boys.