Week 27 Pregnancy Update

Hello third trimester... I didn't think I would ever see you.  Nine weeks ago, I sat in a doctor's office, and was told you would never come.  I was told to prepare for the death of my baby, and an abrupt second trimester end to my pregnancy. 

Like a child anticipating Christmas, I counted the days until you were here... first 24 weeks, and then suddenly a fast 4 weeks and today I woke up and here you were... 28 precious weeks! I am happy to see you.  Despite your bad rap from other soon-to-be mothers about cankles and the impending largeness you put on our bodies, I for one, love you.  I have always loved you.  My first time around, you were only with me for a short 7 weeks.  I felt cheated by you, even betrayed a little.  This time I don't know how long you will be with me, but I can honestly say - bring it on!  I am ready for you.  Every week I spend with you is a win for my baby girl.  She needs time... time to grow, time to develop, and strengthen, as it doesn't look like she is going to have an easy entry into this world.  Nourish her and keep her... help her grow. 

28 weeks!

Tomorrow morning we have an appointment with Dr. P, third trimester.  I know you will like her.  She is a realist, but still understands the limits of science... I guess all she has to do is look at me.  I know that you and baby girl puzzle her.  A baby with this large of a cystic hygroma does not make it this far 99% of the time.

It will be our first appointment since the MRI and follow-up echo.  I 'm sure there will be lots to discuss.  I have lots of questions! 

As you start... I am happy, but fearful:  getting one step closer to meeting my daughter, and finding out more what is going on with her.  Sometimes, I can ignore the reality of her condition, but when you end, third trimester, it will either mean 2 things... meeting my daughter face to face and finally visibly seeing her struggles - learning more what our new normal will be like, OR finding out that she can't make it in this world. 

This is the final countdown.  As much as I'm happy to see you, I certainly hope I have the strength to endure you.