Aya is currently at 800g (birth weight 794g), and although it was only a 6g increase, I can see that her body mass has improved. Nagkakalaman na siya, hindi na gaanong buto't balat. Her skin tone is better too. Her oxygen cannula is back, the medical team tried to see if she can do without one, but she still needs a little help (lowest setting, ihip lang ng hangin); in time, Aya will be able to breathe entirely on her own.

For almost a week now, a human milk fortifier (HMF) is being added to her breastmilk. This is added vitamins, protein, electrolytes, etc. to help extremely low birth weight babies like Aya grow bigger and stronger, faster. As a breastfeeding counselor, I have reservations on the use of HMFs, but I trust my medical team. What I could do is research more about it and practice due diligence, so I asked for medical advise from pediatrician friends, an IBCLC, and a fellow breastfeeding counselor. Thank you to Ysabelle Lorenzo Nina, Dra. Gretel Dema-ala Contegino, and Dra. Tere Ribano for your insights. All of these medical interventions have a place, and what is most important is Aya's health, growth, and development.

This Christmas week, I was able to learn more about Aya's NICU classmates and their mommies. Everything has a purpose, and I believe that Aya and I were meant to be in the NICU to help these families too, one way or another. Although we are currently in need of financial help as well, we cannot turn a blind eye and leave these babies and families to fend for themselves. I am lucky to have friends and family like you whom I can count on; the others have no one to turn to. We are slowly building a stronger NICU "village" now, and how timely that it started during Christmas time.

Thank you for your never ending support! Please continue to pray and to share our campaign on social media, and donate if able. God bless you and your family! Merry Christmas! 😊💗🎄

Love,

Mommy Jeng