Monday, February 06, 2006

Those eyes have it!

Madelyn can see. Madelyn can see.

She's sleeping now. I just gave her a bottle. Afterward I sat in the rocker and held her for a long time, listening to her baby grunts and squeaks; loving the way she snuggles into the curve of my arms, as if I'm all she will ever want or need. And I let the dark future I'd imagined for her dissolve and fade away. Madelyn can see.

The ophthalmologist said she is, in fact, delayed -- not quite where she should be for a 10-week-old. But he said, "I'd more surprised if her vision were normal, given all that she's been through." Her eye structures and optic nerves were fine, and he said she does react to light with "primitive responses."

He thought there were times during the exam when she was focusing on faces and objects. (My husband and I really don't see this in here, but obviously this doctor has more experience!) He said we should find ways to stimulate her vision using high-contrast toys. He also said, "I've seen hundreds of blind babies, and she doesn't act like she's blind."

So, we'll have another checkup in two months, and meanwhile go on to the next crisis--

Kidding. Right now all is well. And, th-th-th-that's all for tonight, my wonderful friends. I've got a baby to cherish.

25 comments:

Cricket said...

I am so relieved for you all. What great news. Yes, snuffle up that bundle.

WriterGrrl said...

What a relief. Hold your baby and let go of the fear.

Anonymous said...

Hooray! You must be feeling like a million dollars this evening. I was really hoping it was just a delay - am so glad that's what it turned out to be.

- Sonetka

Anonymous said...

Sooooo happy to hear that! I checked obsessively today for an update. Lots of love and prayers for Madelyn's continued recovery.

Anonymous said...

Yahoooo! I'm so glad Bee. Kiss that sweet girl for us and enjoy!

xx

Anonymous said...

Terrific news! So happy for you and Madelyn.
Enjoy your sweet baby.

Anonymous said...

What great news! I'm thrilled for the three of you.

Amy Linder said...

Yay!!! I was absolutely heart-wrenched to read about your fears for Madelyn's sight. So thrilled for you all that she will be just fine. Get her some black, white and red baby toys and a mobile and have fun introducing her to the wonderful, exciting, colorful world around her. Yay!!!

Kellie said...

Thank GOD! How wonderful.

Anonymous said...

Bee,
I was holding my breath. I am overjoyed for you and your little one. Give her big hugs and kisses for us.

xoxoxo
Ade

Teendoc said...

Excellent news!! I am thrilled!!

Anonymous said...

Thank God! What a wonderful relief! You have been on my mind continually since I read your last post, and I am so very thankful that you got good news. Please give that sweet baby girl hugs and kisses from all the members of her internet fan club.

DI_Dad said...

I am so happy for your relief upon hearing this great news.

Anonymous said...

Thank G-d, thank G-d! So happy to hear this news. Whew.

Anonymous said...

WHAT A RELIEF!

Emily

Summer said...

Fabulous! That's wonderful!

Anonymous said...

Wonderful, wonderful news, Bee. I'm so glad.

Trixie said...

Enjoy those cuddles and get a good night's rest. You have earned it!

Pamplemousse said...

Thank goodness Madelyn is doing better and I am hoping for continued recovery for you all. One small step after another, right?

JennaM said...

Trust that doc with all your might. This is great news, and your baby will eventually get to see as much beauty as she creates!

Anonymous said...

Oh, I'm glad I missed that last post, I didn't have to worry. Glad everything is looking up again. Hugs to your sweet little girl...

Anonymous said...

Hi Bee...

Would love an update on you and Baby M. Thinking of you.

xx tt

Anonymous said...

I am thrilled for you:) You have got to be relieved.

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