First of all, we lost the baby. I hate that I have to write another blog post about loss, but it’s my form of communication and therapy all rolled into one.
I’ve been anxious ever since our last MFM appointment (MFM is the high-risk doctor that you see after you deal with a loss like ours). The weight of the baby was in the 22nd percentile which called for an extra check up (which would have been this Friday). I wasn’t as sure about the baby moving, but I felt some round ligament pain so I thought it was just my nerves making things up that weren’t there.
But my anxiety got the best of me today, and I called the OB that was on call today, who happened to be the OB I’ve been seeing through most of this pregnancy (our clinic has 4 OBs that rotate, and I love all of them). She suggested going to the hospital and getting an ultrasound. She called ahead to let them know I was coming. So, my husband and I got in the car and headed to the hospital.
We were led into a room and the monitors came out, along with our worst fears. No heartbeat. They got a doppler in hopes that maybe it was just a squirmy baby. No heartbeat. The girl who helped us was super sweet and optimistic. I really appreciated her. Then our doctor came in with the ultrasound. No heartbeat.
Apparently, the problem is that the placenta just stops working. They don’t know why. But it’s the closest explanation for both losses. This will still be an unexplained fetal death. And any pregnancy after this one will result in weekly ultrasound visits.
I had my “Jesus conversation” there in the hospital when Michael stepped out to make some calls. It was different this time. I mean, it had a lot of the same elements – confusion, mourning, shock. But I felt stronger somehow. Like God was already propping me up in that hospital bed. I could cry without collapsing. I could look directly at my fear and the unknown and embrace it. That’s when I realized that this is what being blessed by God is all about. It’s about looking the Devil in the face and saying, “I’m not going to give up on my faith. I am stubbornly in love with the God of creation.”
So, sometime this week, we will again go to the hospital, deliver, and come home without a child. I know that a lot of you have been praying for this baby, just as you prayed for my last daughter. Please continue praying for Michael and me as we navigate the next week and the next several months. I know this journey. I’ve walked it before. It’s going to be hard and chaotic, but I also know there will be moments of peace as well.
Oh Katy, oh no. I am crying for you right now. I am so, so sorry. I just don’t understand. This is so heartbreaking. I’m sure you’re not ready to think about next steps, but in the next few months would you consider giving Dr. braverman a call to see if there are any undiagnosed immune issues at play? His initial phone consults are free. I will keep you in my heart as you begin to grieve. I wish there was something I could do.
Thank you, Tanya for your kind words. I appreciate the offer and I will definitely consider it in the coming months. My OB is already gearing up for next time. I will see her in a couple of weeks, so I should get a clear idea of what she suggests and plans, and if that doesn’t cover immune issues, I will look at Dr. Braverman as an option.
I am so incredibly sorry. Sending hugs and love.
I don’t know if I’ve read your blog before, but it’s beautiful. Thank you for your words and for reaching out.
Oh Katy I am so sorry to hear this news! Know that you all are I our prayers.
Thank you for your prayers!
Katy, I am so saddened to hear this. I had the highest of hopes for you and Michael. Your faith in the face of such a devastating loss is something that I admire. Continued prayers for the two of you as you navigate the next very difficult days.
Thank you for your prayers and kind words
Nothing I say here will go without one person upset…there’s no good thing to say except I hear you. I do have some understanding…I did this 8 times. Be strong. You are loved.
It’s about looking the Devil in the face and saying, “I’m not going to give up on my faith. I am stubbornly in love with the God of creation.” Yes. One thousand times yes. Your testimony is more powerful than both of you realize. ❤ Just the fact that you are able to write these words shows the amazing things that God has done and is doing in you. ❤
And I'm so sorry, Katy. You have been on my heart, and now I understand why. I'm praying for you over these next few days, weeks, and months.
Thank you, Becca. God is good and he has good things planned. Thank you for your prayers. I truly appreciate your friendship.
We are so very sorry. We watched the cars come and go with mouting apprehension. Our prayers are with you.
Sent from my Sprint Samsung Galaxy Note5.
Thank you, Mary. And thank you for the prayers and for checking in on us. We are blessed with such great neighbors.
Know that you are covered in prayer this week.
Thank you, Rach. I appreciate your prayers.
Katy,Is there anything we can do for you?Please tell us.
Sent from my Sprint Samsung Galaxy Note5.
My family is here right now, so we are good, We will let you know if there is anything we need. Thank you so much!
I am so sorry Katy. I will be praying for you and your family.
Thank you for your prayers. They are appreciated.
Katie, my heart is so heavy for you & Michael! You have been in my prayers since I heard about your loss. 😓 I’m so proud of your strong faith even in the deepest sadness and know without a doubt that God will bless your faithfulness in ways you can’t even imagine. We are praying you!
Thank you, Valinda. We appreciate your prayers.
Such a pleasure to care for you last night. I too have lost a child, I get it. Praying for you!
Thank you so much for everything, Georgia! The nursing staff is my favorite thing about Baylor, most definitely. Thank you for your prayers and for sharing with me about your loss.
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