Abby has difficulty swallowing and using her tongue, so her main source of nutrition and hydration is her feeding tube. We are allowed to give her two ounces of puree at home, three times per day so that she can practice swallowing. But with her feeding therapist present, we can also give her small amounts of thickened liquids. Up until this point Abby has not tried to suck and drink herself. We always had to squeeze the cup to get the liquid in her mouth. That worried me. How do you teach someone to suck? It's a natural instinct you are born with. But during therapy on Wednesday she held the sippy cup, put it in her mouth, sucked and swallowed! She did it about 3 times and I was so excited!
(Yes, this cup is empty because we were at home. I didn't think to take a picture during therapy.)
Abby has another swallow study scheduled for next week to see if her swallowing has improved. If it has gotten better and there are no signs of aspiration, we will be able to give her more by mouth. That's what we are hoping for!
Having gone through swallow studies myself, I understand how stressful this can seem to you, but believe me, I'm sure Abby is feeling that stress, too... Just keep being the supportive parents she needs!!!
ReplyDeleteKaralee,
ReplyDeleteI have read your story of Abby and all that Abby and your family has been through. I am so inspired by Abby's strength, YOUR strength. You are such a beautiful mother. You are positive, uplifting, and have such an amazing spirit that I can feel in reading your posts. Thank you for your example. Abby and your family will be in our prayers. Thank you for sharing Abby's story. Abby is making such amazing progress! It is so beautiful to see!
~Kristel