...and (soon) Baby Brother Winston
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Ultrasound image, February 2014 |
With the due date of June 18, it's hard to believe that in less than a month he'll be here.
In some sense, Winston's gestation was much longer than the typical 9 months--his "conception" began almost 24 months ago in June 2012.
He is a baby that science made possible.
The process involved acronyms like IVF, PGD, CVS and many laboratories: Duke University, University of Utah, Natera, Counsyl, and GeneDx.
(And, needles. Lots of needles.)
It was a difficult process, physically and emotionally. There was a lot of anxiety, failure, and loss.
It was worth it.
We know that he isn't affected by N-glycanase deficiency--in fact, he's not even a carrier.
He is also not a carrier for 107 other rare genetic conditions.
And, he is a 100% chromosome normal XY male.
We got lucky.
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This morning, Bertrand and Victoria attended their "Sibling Preparation Class" at the hospital where mommy will deliver. The class involved anatomy posters, sibling books, baby dolls, coloring sheets, a brief video, and a hospital tour. Bertrand, being the old hand that he is, was a bit bored. Victoria was riveted and kept interrupting to lecture the teacher (a L&D nurse) on babies... and Jake and the Neverland Pirates. So, it went well. :) We are all ready and excited to meet baby Winston.
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With Daddy in the hospital lobby. |
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Looking for the Nursery. |
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Bertrand's expression says, "I know this already!" |
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The attentive pupil. |
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These two take baby visitation very seriously. |