The Adventures of Alexander Steven: October 2017

As I sit here to write this post I can't believe six months has already gone by. It is hard to believe that almost 10 months ago our world was turned upside down. The first time we heard those mind-numbing words, "we think there is something wrong with your baby's heart." And then a week later we learned our little boy has a congenital heart defect. It has been a rocky road at times but seeing him now, a smiling, laughing 6 month old makes it all worth it. He has been through more X-rays, ultrasounds, lab draws, and surgeries in his short 6 months then most people go through in their lifetime. And his journey is far from over. His scar is a constant reminder of all that he has gone through, but also all that he has overcome. We can't thank everyone at CHOP enough for giving Alex life, but we owe so much to his surgeon Dr. Spray.

At his most recent cardiology visit he weighed 12lb 1.6oz! He continues to eat well, now taking 4.5-5oz with each feeding. We have tried a few foods and his favorite so far is avocados! His last echo showed good blood flow to the left side, so his cardiologist is happy for now. We have to follow up with another echo in 2-3 months. He will need another cath procedure in 4 months or so because he will likely outgrow his stent.

He started daycare this week and has already won over the hearts of all the teachers. One day he even took a 2 hour nap in his crib! I am sure he is loving daycare with all of the action there. He still loves to watch his big brother run around. He is rolling all over the place, starting to find his voice and his first tooth is breaking through!

We had a busy month as you'll see from the pictures below. We were able to meet up with one of my friends, Shelby, from college and her little family while they were in Philly. We also spent some time at the Mended Little Hearts picnic. Ben had a blast running around and playing on the playground. Alex and I had a great time meeting some other families. We were able to attend Mommy's 10 year college reunion and Ben had fun watching all of the different games. Alex had his first trip to Solebury Orchards for apple picking, and most recently, last weekend, we participated in the Lehigh Valley American Heart Association Heart Walk. We had a great time heart walking. Thank you to everyone who donated to Team Alexander!

Enjoy all the pictures!

Love,
Bobby, Erica, Ben and Alex