Maggie and Brandon were released from the hospital at around 9:30AM this morning and we’re glad to have the little guy at home. Things got a bit complicated however, apparently his blood work revealed that he may be infected with the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria which causes staph infections.  Apparently it’s fairly common for newborns to get it (from what I’m told from the doctors/nurses) and detected early is easily treatable.  It’s just kind of scary for me, I’ve seen what staph infections can do to MMA fighters and when you hear your son may be infected, it’s not a good feeling.  After just a few hours, we had to go back to the hospital so they could draw some blood and do a second test and I have to say it was one of the most difficult ordeals I had to go through.

The nurse specifically asked for me to carry the baby to the room where the blood will be drawn because she thought I could stomach it more than Maggie (told me afterwards).  Three different nurses tried to draw blood from Brandon, poking him in both his ankles and wrists however since newborns are so small it’s difficult to hit a vein.  Worst yet I saw them all push the needle in and out trying to hit the vein, at the same time he’s crying at the top of his lungs. Thankfully after about 30 minutes, the fourth nurse who had the most experience was able to draw enough blood to do the test.  Sigh I felt so helpless with him laying on a counter top just a few feet away, seeing him in pain but I know it was necessary.  At times I found myself welling up too, I wish it was something I could do for him instead…

Anyway he’s home safe and sound and I’ll call the hospital tomorrow to find out the results.  Tomorrow, Maggie and I also have an appointment with our pediatrician so he’ll probably be jabbed a few more times sigh.  Oh well it’s necessary for his health and I guess from now on, I will always worry about that.

Watching him in pain today I truly understood what unconditional love is.  Brandon, mommy and daddy love you always!