2 May

OK, we've now decided Max is a discerning eater. Aparently the taste of Elecare (formula) and breastmilk together is just not right for his palate, so we've gone back to straight Elecare to see if it is indeed the taste he isn't coping with. So far, this seems to be the case. He's certainly not grimacing, arching his back and spitting it all out in the way he has been over the past few days. So far he's taking a regular 20-50mls whenever he's offered a bottle. Fantastic!

Today he had a couple of vomits, but they are relatively minor, and he doesn't desaturate or seem upset once they're over, so we just go on.

Also today was the launch of a new addition to the neo-natal unit - a parent support facility. Basically these are four rooms set out in a motel-style where parents with children in the unit who are critically ill, or who are 'rooming-in' with their child before taking it home, can stay for a night or two. We've had occasion to use these rooms - about 5 times - and so can vouch for them being a true blessing. I was asked to be a 'parent spokesperson' today to chat with the sponsors, the Minister (for Health, who opened the section), and with some media representatives. Max came too - his first trip out of the unit itself (albeit 20 metres down the corridor!). There were many photos taken and several interviews, including print & broadcast media. I hold no hopes that much of what I said will make it to air - I sort of stumbled my way through the questions - I'll be hard to edit to good sound bites! Anyway, I was trying to promote the work of the unit, so if I helped at all, that's great. We'll hopefully be using the rooms for our 'rooming-in' in a short time!