The Beginning

In November 2011, I gave birth at 23 weeks to our daughter, Evelyn Grace. While she was a strong little fighter, she just wasn't ready and passed away in our arms a few days later. An eptopic pregnancy in November 2012 (crummy irony) led us to a fertility doctor. Thankfully, we were able to get pregnant in March 2013 after just a few rounds of Clomid. With bi-weekly doctor's appointments to watch my body during this pregnancy, everything was progressing appropriately.

August 23 - 25 weeks pregnant.

I absolutely love being pregnant. I loved being pregnant with Evelyn and I loved being pregnant with Evan. There's something magical knowing that you are growing a life. It's like your own personal inside secret that no one else is privy to. With both pregnancies, I was lucky enough to bypass morning sickness and go straight to tiredness. :)

About 4 weeks pregnant.
The dot in the top almost center is Evan!

This pregnancy brought me closer than ever to my obstetrician's office - specifically the ultrasound technician. I went bi-weekly for ultrasounds to ensure my cervix was not dilated  I also received weekly shots of progesterone in the hopes that it would help keep the uterus nice and relaxed. Andrew was lucky enough to play nurse and give me several rounds of the shot. Right up until August 26, I had perfect checkups at each visit. My ultrasound photos were stacking up and I was getting to know our little boy. Our very active little boy!

August 30 - The night before Evan was born.

Andrew brought me in to the hospital on August 26. I had called my OB that day with complaints of very mild contractions. They suggested going in just to make sure everything was fine. Up until Monday, I was routinely feeling what I thought were Braxton Hicks contractions. Monday's contractions were a little more persistent, happening about every 15 minutes. The admitting doctor realized I had already started to dilate (I was about 4-5 cm already). Many pregnancies can continue to full term dilated  Unfortunately with my history, I needed to be admitted immediately. I was 25 weeks pregnant.

After several days of steroids (to develop Evan's lungs) and magnesium to help stall the contractions, we thought we were in the clear. Throughout the entire pregnancy, Evan was head down, ready for a vaginal birth. On Saturday the 30, he was super wiggly and the nurses were having a hard time keeping his heartbeat on the baby monitor (completely normal when they're that small). That night, my water broke. I was really hoping I had wet the bed instead. During an ultrasound, the doctors could see that Evan had worked hard to reposition himself sideways with his back out. They made the decision to perform a cesarean section. Babies can survive in the womb after the water breaks, but I was almost all the way dilated. I never once felt any different or wanted to push. I was prepped for surgery and at 5:11 am on September 1, Evan John came into the world - kicking the delivering doctor on the way out. We were able to stall his delivery; giving him six extra days in the womb.

Evan has a long road ahead of him. Thankfully, he has all of you rooting for him! We know there will be good days and bad days. We're taking it day-by-day. Celebrating little milestones.

Check in often. I'll try to keep you posted as I receive feedback and details from the doctors and nurses. In case we forget to tell you; you all give us our strength. We know you're all sending love, prayers and positive vibes our way. Keep it up! We're feeling them!

Love,
Andrew, Colleen & Evan