Meet my g-tube baby, Gracie!! Gracie was a former 27weeker, born on August 3rd and because of the g-tube she is thriving, gaining & doing great. In the NICU she was always referred to as a “pukey baby”, because every time they gave her formula she would throw it back up. They thought a milk protein allergy, and put her on strict broken down formula. It wasn’t until an October ultrasound finally found a Hiatal Hernia in her belly. The hernia was “very large”, according to the surgeon. Who said she didn’t expect it to be as big as it was, when she went in to repair it. While having that repaired, a g-tube was placed in her belly at the same time. We had many discussions around the g-tube prior to the surgery, we weren’t absolutely sure that she needed it. But after a few weeks of waiting to help her gain weight for the surgery, we soon realized that the g-tube was the best choice for her.

Gracie’s surgery was on November 7^th, and she weighed 4lbs. 1oz. By the time we finally left the NICU on December 5^th, she weighed 6lbs. 2oz. Way to go, Gracie!!

I’m not embarrassed that my daughter eats differently than other babies. In fact, I’m proud of her and how far she has come. As with many preemie babies, there is always the fear they aren’t going to make it; not only has Gracie made it, she’s doing it with flying colors. She’s a brave, strong little baby.. destined for only the best.

I’m not sure how long she’s going to need the g-tube. We have a really good G.I. Specialist, that we see every two weeks. He’s not very concerned about taking the g-tube out. But when asked by my husband, he says maybe 8 months to a year. He wants her to continue to get good nutrition and be healthy. Whatever it takes, I say. “Whatever it takes.”

The only downsides of the g-tube I would say is that it leaks A LOT!! Unfortunately, I don’t think Gracie is really ‘wearing’ the right g-tube size. The smaller one causes skin friction, but the larger one causes a lot of leakage, which means the acid of the stomach gets on her skin & makes it ulcerated. We put some special cream on it a few times a day, to help the ulcerations. It’s been a fine balance to make sure she’s getting the correct nutrition, and to have her not be in pain with it. But all in all, it’s helping her grow.. and that really is what it’s all about. She is currently 10lbs 8.5oz!!

Thanks for reading about Gracie.. I’m sure you’ll be hearing from us again!!