Calories, Calories, Calories

Archer had his second appointment with the pulmonologist yesterday. During his first visit the doctor said that she would like to see him gain about 8 ounces per week, and be on 27 calorie fortifier mixed with milk. She said Archer was not on the growth chart and her goal was for him to gain weight in order for him to wean off oxygen sooner. A week after that appointment Archer became very fussy and did not handle the calories well. Some phone calls were made and Archer's reflux medication was doubled and then changed, and a new brand of fortifier was tried. Since this change Archer has been less fussy, and he has gained a few ounces, whereas he was really struggling to gain weight during the first two weeks at home.
During this appointment the doctor was pleased with his overall health. She said his lungs sounded much better, he was not congested, and he was just more healthy than two weeks ago. She was not pleased with his weight gain, as he now weighs six pounds 10 ounces. She again doubled his reflux medication, and Mom and Dad will attempt to slowly add more calories to Archer's milk in order to get him up to 27 calories per feeding. A nurse mentioned that it usually takes about six weeks for most babies to really start gaining weight with a growth spurt and hopes this is the case for Archer.
Archer also had a ten-minute test without the aide of additional oxygen. The respiratory therapist was pleased with Archer's breathing levels. He is now allowed to be off oxygen during awake times. In two weeks he will undergo a night study to see how he does during sleep times, and if he will be well enough to be off oxygen altogether. Archer will see the pulmonologist again in four weeks.
Archer's fussiness has decreased some since being home. He will have a "crazy time" in the evening that lasts a few hours, where he will eat off and on, fuss, and requires constant attention. According to the doctor this is normal baby fussiness that occurs during a busy time in the household, like cooking dinner and cleaning up from the day.
Mom and Dad are pleased with Archer's progress. He seems healthy even though his fussiness can be overwhelming at times. He is starting to smile more often, his feedings are getting better, and he is really enjoying playing with his toys. He sleeps well at night and wakes himself up about every three hours to eat, then falls back asleep.  The Kumfer family is surviving the stressful times and having fun along the way!