11/25 (Monday) - Passed the Esophagram!

Leo passed his esophagram test today! Kate and I actually got to be in the room while the radiologist inserted a tube down Leo's throat with the contrast liquid. We were only a few feet from the radiologist when he took a series of x-rays showing the liquid flowing down Leo's esophagus. Just after the radiologist finished, he told us that everything looked good. Even though we had to wait for about an hour for official confirmation, we were both so relieved that he has reached this milestone.

Leo's breathing support is still a little high to try to feed through his mouth. The plan is to start feeding him sometime tonight through his feeding tube with a special, low fat formula and eventually progress to breast milk. There is some concern about Leo being able to swallow. We'll know more in the next couple of days but we are hoping that this is something he can learn how to do once he is ready to eat through his mouth.

Leo even made a short, but distinct cry tonight. Uncle Flint was even here when he did so I have a witness to prove that I wasn't imagining things. Kate is spending the night at home with Sammie while I am staying at the hospital. Leo's pain medication was just reduced so here's to hoping he has a peaceful night.

Here is a picture of Leo sporting his new nasal breathing tube.