On July 16, 2015, Sophia gained a little sister with the surprise early arrival of Evelyn Hope. Born at 5:16 am, Evelyn made her way into our lives at 31w 4d. Being the fighter that we know she is, her need for respiratory devices was short lived, she feeds like a champ, and is largely off any machines. With the help of a feeding tube and physical therapy for her joint contractures, Evelyn continues to thrive and change each day. As difficult as it is to leave her in the NICU each night, the nurses, doctors, and staff caring for her love her (nearly) as much as we do. She is in the best of hands (aside from ours, of course).
There are so many blessing with Evelyn’s early arrival. We can definitively address her health issues, of which there are fewer than most doctors thought. With a thorough examination from a geneticist, we have more confidence that her contractures are due to my septated uterus and are positional. Pending genetic testing to confirm our long held suspicions, her daily stretches have markedly improved her muscle tightness–impressive for a preemie nine days old. Our NICU doctors are optimistic, positive, encouraged, and supportive of our thoughts and impressions. Having a baby born prematurely is terrifying; getting on track with helping Evelyn in real life is liberating.
The support from family and friends has been overwhelming throughout my entire pregnancy and during the past week-and-a-half with Evelyn. It brings tears to our eyes to recount the number of people who stopped by to visit, bring gifts, offer meals, send flowers, and send a quick text message asking for updates. Our lives have been turned upside down: half ready nursery, no preemie clothes on hand, work obligations put on hold, numerous trips back and forth to the hospital, meals on the run when we can find a bite to eat, and a pug who is very confused and at times acting out in protest. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
Laura Gaddis 
❤
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Evelyn seems like a spitfire and will do great. How sweet is she. Congratulations!
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Congratulations on her arrival, I hope she continues to get stronger and healthier each day.
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I am so happy that Evelyn Hope is doing so well and God all along was in control. He knew when she should come into this world and was able to make sure she gets the proper medical care. I don’t know what contractual is nor will I pretend that I do but God is in control and this beautiful angel brought into your life will bring much joy and blessings into your lives. God chose the both of you to raise her so you are already blessed because He knew that you are fighters and he was satisfied that you are the right ones.
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Did I ever tell you I read your blog and weep? This time for joy. Keep on keeping on. Love, Doug
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Thank you, Doug, for the prayers and kind words. We are so fortunate for all the love we have received from wonderful friends like you 🙂
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Currently I’m four weeks into the walking the Camino de Santiago. On Friday the 16th I dedicated my prayers to the wellbeing of Laura, Jason, and their unborn child. Tomorrow is a new day and I will pray for you some more. Doug
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I am so happy to read this! I am sending you all thoughts and prayers of love and healing. I love and am so happy for your family, I am sure Sophia is loving on you all and has your backs. Love you!!!
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Thank you! 😊
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Wow. I’m both deeply relieved and incredibly hopeful for the three of you. Little Evelyn is beautiful and so very brave. I sense the deep love and connection you and she share already. Wishing you all the very very best.
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Thank you so much.
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Thanks! With each passing day, our hope is restored that she will be just fine. 😊
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Congratulations on your beautiful girl! It’s so good to hear she is doing well and exceeding expectations. May God continue to bless all three of you. Sending love, prayers, and positivity.
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Thank you. The support from everyone is truly overwhelming 😊
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Thank you! She is a blessing in so many ways 😊
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Aw amazing news! Congratulations! So chuffed to hear all is going well. Enjoy every moment x
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Thank you!
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