Thursday, October 2, 2008

A roller-coaster week

My first week of bedrest ended on a high note, with a baby shower thrown by my mother-in-law's friends (don't worry, I had permission from my doctor to attend). I had met most of them only once or twice (several years ago, when I was but a blushing bride), and some I had never met before. The ladies immediately put me at ease, however, with their excitement about the quads, myriad questions about how things are going, and offers to help out when the babies arrive. Ted and I were so surprised by their generosity; it's clear that they must love his mother dearly and we are so thankful that they extended that love to us. The hostesses did a fantastic job and, as you can see, I got another cute cake out of the deal!

Unfortunately, the days following this final baby shower haven't been quite as much fun. At my doctor visit on Tuesday, they found a small amount of protein in my urine. Since this could indicate the onset of preeclampsia (click on the link if you aren't familiar with the condition), the doctor decided to run some additional tests (results should be available tomorrow afternoon). On top of this, I've had contraction monitoring sessions registering five, six, seven, and even eight contractions in the past few days. For this reason, my doctor has put me on Procardia, which is usually used to treat high blood pressure but is also effective at relaxing the uterus. I am not very happy about being on meds already, but I'd rather take a pill than be in the hospital or lose my babies. Hopefully this Procardia will do the trick, and my uterus will stay nice and calm for a few more weeks.

I should be used to the highs and lows by now, but I admit that it's been hard for both Ted and me to balance excitement about the quads and the realities of a high-risk pregnancy. Fortunately, we are a team and we are growing stronger every day. I haven't enjoyed losing my independence (even if I weren't on bedrest, I have no energy and I just plain can't move like I used to), but it's definitely given me a chance to appreciate how much Ted loves me and the babies. I couldn't do this without his help, and I try to let him know every day that I don't take his willing sacrifices of time and energy for granted. I am so blessed to have his support, both physically and emotionally. He is going to be a great dad!

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Suzy! You are surrounded by so many people who love and support you and Ted. Hearing your story is impacting, complications and all. It's a story God has written, guiding you through at times when you have to surrender more and more of your independence and rely on Him. Not fun, but life changing (and life giving). :) I'm praying for you, especially for those test results!

Anonymous said...

Suzy,

We will definitely be praying for you all. I'm so grateful for this blog so that we can continue to pray specifically for you. Thanks for sharing with people what's going on!! We love seeing new entries and hearing about each exciting step. Of course there are these struggles to get through...always remember that God will walk through them with you. (Sort of cliche but it is true!) Lots of love and prayers for your family.

Anonymous said...

Suzy,

Just a quick note to say that I am still thinking and praying for you and the babies. I had preeclampsia with my daughter, Addison. She ended up being born at 34 weeks and did spend some time in the NICU. Let me know if you have any questions...the meds are no fun but they do their job!

Ashley

Anonymous said...

Sorry you've had a hard time this week. :-( You, Ted, and the babies remain in our prayers daily. You've taken all the precautions you can. God will handle the rest. Just trust in Him and know that you are surrounded by people who love all 6 of you!

The Middletons said...

Suzy~
We second what the others have said. We are continually praying for all of you each and everyday. You are a blessing to all of us and we love you!:)
Staci

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