After a Miraculous Comeback...Team Miller Wins!!!

Team Miller has officially won the BIG game and is now currently celebrating this special victory with lots of partying all hours of the night, drinking lots of milk, and definitely lots of dirty diapers!

As of Sunday, November 25th at 6:06am--the game officially ended and the celebration started! Miller was born and he weighed in at a hefty 5 pounds/13 ounces and 18 inches long! At the time he was born, he was 35 weeks and 6 days. Now, he is officially 1 week old and doing incredible!!

Mommy and Daddy are doing wonderful too! Just enjoying this big win and celebrating all hours of the night with Miller. Tired but so deliriously happy because Miller is a wonderful baby! Even the nurses at Seton would comment what a good baby he was especially for being a "near term" baby! He is very alert, on a schedule already and is exactly like his daddy! Everyone is thankful that he is so good--which is an extra blessing!

Currently, the whole family is at home now and have been here since Wednesday afternoon. We have already had to go to the peditricians office on Thursday to make sure he wasn't dropping too much weight--and he was good at 5 pounds and 4 ounces. Another doctor's visit is set for Monday! (Mommy gets one too so that they can check on the hernia surgery because we never got a chance to go see the doctor 1 week postop due to being in the hospital.)

Lastly--MVP for the BIG game was voted on being Lawton DeLorenzo. Without his strength, and love for his family---this big game win would never have been possible!!

A special thank you to Team Miller's special "coaches" including all of the brilliant doctors, nurses, family and friends! We truly believe in Miracles because we have one at home with us!

Mommy and Daddy have to go because Miller is "calling" us to help him continue the celebration! Mommy gets to bring the milk this time! Also, Mommy and Daddy are going to end this blog now and start a new one because this is now the beginning of a new game called "life". Praise God! With God, all things are possible!

Peace and Love to you all!!

Dana, Matt and Miracle Miller

My what??

Ok....I obviously spoke too soon last Friday when I said that it was our "quiet time" and we were enjoying listening to the bliss of the stillness of the household as well as enjoying a "normal pregnancy" finally! This changed a little as of this past Monday. No, no worries....Miller is not here yet!


On Monday--Week 35/Day 1, we went to go in for our normal OB doctor's visit. It has been nice to have "normal" check-ups because this pregnancy has been far from normal! MM was looking great and they did a quick check on size and they thought he was approaching 6 pounds! They say it is hard to tell when you do growth checks so close together--so not sure how much I believe that he is a 6 pounder already. Then again, it is hard for us to believe that we are even at this stage when 15 weeks ago--we were just trying to get to week 24, 28, 30 and then week 32.

Anyway--after the OB doctor, we had to visit another doctor because my belly button didn't look quite normal---like other prego women have. Dr. U wanted me to be safe than sorry thus he wanted me to get it checked out by a general surgeon. Our doctor's appointment was immediately following the OB one. By 9am---Matt and I had learned that we were suddenly scheduled for surgery later that afternoon to fix my umbilical hernia. My what????

Yes, to add yet another twist to this very unusual pregnancy---I had surgery on Monday at 2pm though waking up that morning we had no clue that surgery was even an option for that day. Our heads were spinning because so many things could have happen. The surgery was under general anesthesia so both MM and I slept through it. He came through it like a champ--though he did give us a little scare because his heartbeat got down to a 107. (His normal is from 140-160) So he did give us a scare---but once again, we realized that we have a special angel in Heaven, Lawton, and here on earth, Julie, who took care of us. Julie, our best friend and nurse practitioner, came in right at the exact moment when the nurses were trying to hunt down Dr. U to see what they should do. Julie quickly took control of the situation--made them turn me on my left side--thus giving MM more oxygenated blood (or something like that.) Anyway--MM quickly "woke up" for his Aunt Julie and his momma--thus putting our hearts and minds at ease.

So, once again, poor Matt, my parents and my brother were in the waiting room and praying that MM would not come during the surgery. While I was being wheeled in to surgery--I kept telling the doctors and nurses my baby's name so that they can address him by name and tell him to not come during surgery. They obviously took care of both of us! They were wonderful! My poor family----I have given them so many scares throughout this pregnancy that I will owe them for the rest of my life for making them worry about MM and me so much!

Now---it is Wednesday--the day before Thanksgiving. Yesterday was a very tough day for all of us because having stitches in your belly button is one thing--but having them when you are 20 pounds heavier and the pressure of a 6 pound baby kicking on them is a completely different story!!! OUCH is an understatement but I keep telling myself that it is preparing me for the REAL thing soon!

This surgery was a huge shock for us but even more so for MM. He keeps thinking that he is supposed to come for Thanksgiving! We held off labor last night and today---which is a huge relief! I guess it wouldn't be so bad if we did come now since he has hit the big milestones that he has needed to do so. But, we would rather have him "cook" a little while longer plus there is still about 10 more things that I just thought of that needs to be done!! (Nesting instinct I guess.)

Anyway--Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!! We promise to post once Miracle Miller gets here as well as email everyone that we can think of! However, hoping that we have one more post for next week prior to his arrival!

Love and Peace to you and your family!!
We love you! Dana, Matt and MM

Quiet time...

Today is Friday, November 16th. The last time we posted was October 26th and sorry to those of you who read this blog on a weekly basis to get updates. Obviously things changed for us a little when we hit week 32--2 weeks ago.

At that big 32 week appointment--we got the "ok" to get off strict bed rest and start doing modified bed rest---which means I can DRIVE!!! Not that I can get out and be my normal "go at 100+ miles per hour self" but still to get permission to get out of the house 1 time a day was a huge step for us. I am sure Matt is thrilled with this because I am no longer as grumpy as I had been. So, these past 2 1/2 weeks, I have been consumed with making sure we are ready for MM to get here! Thanks to great information from many friends---we think we are ready. However, sure to any "new parents" life--I have a feeling that we have missed something and will realize it the first night when we get home.

So--according to our plan--MM is scheduled to be here on December 3rd! If he is anything like his father---he will be ON TIME or 15 minutes early! We are set for a csection that morning but not sure of the exact time yet. Our families are busy getting ready for this grand occasion.

In the meantime, Matt and I have realized that we need to take a Baby Care Class so that we will actually have an idea of what to do when he gets here. (I have come to learn that MM does not pop out with an instruction manual.) I have also asked Matt to come with me to a Breastfeeding Class too---to insure that I don't miss any crucial information. My "baby brain" tends to kick in quite alot these days! As said before, Matt is an incredible and supportive husband and I know that he will be a wonderful father too!

We have 2 weeks and 3 days to go until we get to meet MM! There have been many nights that Matt and I have stopped what we are doing, mute the TV and just sit there and listen to the quietness within the house. After sitting there and not saying a word--we look at each other and just smile because we know that this quiet time is only going to last 2 weeks and 3 days longer. However, Matt and I look forward to the chaos, lack of sleep and all of the love that MM will add to our lives. We know that MM is bringing us love as well as his brother's spirit into our lives very soon! We look forward to introducing him to all of you.

Thank you for helping to make our Miracle come true by praying for all of us! We could not have gotten to this place in our lives without your love and support!

Peace and love to you all!
Dana, Matt and MM

Only 5 1/2 weeks and counting...

Yep---only 5 1/2 more weeks to go before we get to meet Miracle Miller up close and personal! It is so surreal to actually know that by the first week of December we will have a baby in this house! Matt and I met with both Dr. U and Dr. B this week and have started planning everything. Cerclage comes out November 29th and MM will be here shortly thereafter. Of course, this is a perfect scenerio and pending no complications between now and then. I realize that we have come such a long way in 13 weeks and know that MM can hold out for the last 5 1/2! I am certain that he has stubbornness gene of both the Delo's and Meserole's! This little boy is going to be a "handful" but I can't wait!


I think the room is finished minus a shelf and a few pictures that need to get hung--but other than that--it ready for MM's arrival. This room is so very special to me because it has been a group effort by family and friends since I was not allowed to go out shopping! However, I have learned to shop on the internet which I think is a little more dangerous than doing it in person. It is easy to hit "enter" on an order and not realize that the money is magically disappearing from your wallet without even opening your purse. I think I am ready to do an AmEx commercial about the convenience of the internet and their card! Ha-ha!


For those of you who have not seen it--Miller's (and Lawton's) room is in a safari theme! I wanted MM to be around bright colors and fun animals! Matt refinished a piece of furniture and it turned out amazing! He also hung these antique tin shelves that Pam found for us when she was out shopping. On one of the shelves--we have reserved it solely for memories, sonogram pictures of Lawton. It is a special area that I wanted in the baby's room because without Lawton's strength of love for his big brother, Miller, we would have never gotten this far! He is our special angel and definitely needed to be included! As for the rest of the room, Matt did an incredible job and I honestly think he surprised himself on his "handy man" abilities!


The crib looks like an antique sleigh bed that reminds me of my Grandma Lucy's bed (straight from Italy) that I used to take naps in--and I always felts so secure because of the high headboard and high footboard. Susie (my sister-in-law and aka--Martha Stewart) is putting the final touches on a tablecloth for an end table and the valances. She is an amazing mom and seamstress and I plan take plenty of lessons from her in both areas!


So, all in all--things are fantastic here in the DeLo household. Matt and I sit around and just talk about how far we have come and try to imagine how crazy our house is soon to get when MM gets here! We also talk about the past--and know that we have to look back to realize even more how very blessed we are with our MM, family, friends, our angel in heaven (and butterfly on earth)--Lawton, and those we may never get to meet!

Peace and love to you all--
Dana, Matt and MM

p.s. Aunt Julie has renamed me "M.o.m.m.y." and I love it! It stands for "Mother of Miracle Miller...Yippee!" Thank you Julie--it is truly a special name and will be one that I "wear" proudly! :)

Looking back...

Today is Tuesday--October 16th. We went to the doctors last Thursday and it was our best appointment by far! Both Dr. U and Dr. B were very pleased that we were in Week 29 and counting. We even discussed our next options which included one more round of steroid shots when we hit week 32, when they would be removing the cerclage and when Miller may come into this world! All of this has made my head spin, my heart race and the rest of my body is experience chills. This is all good though it may not sound like it.


Don't get me wrong, I am more than excited that Miller is on his way---but at the same time, I am sad and torn from the past when I look back. I remember when I was in the hospital that a good friend told me that I will be having these emotions the closer to the birth of Miller. I have found that going forward is proving to be just as hard as it is looking back.


I know that we are not supposed to live in the past but rather learn from it and move on. Why does it feel like moving on alienates my other son, Lawton? Don't get me wrong--but I know that we have overcome so many obstacles and have been witness to so many miracles throughout this whole situation--but it just hurts that I won't get to hold both of my sons in the end! I realized that I just need to pray hard to find peace and comfort in knowing that this has all been God's plan. I have been at that peaceful place before---and I can find it again.

So, tomorrow--12 weeks ago--seems like an eternity and/or a whole different life. But, we have made so much great progress that it still seems to baffle me. Week 30!! We are in week 30! We have definitely won our Championship game but there is still a few more minutes left of the clock--so we will need to just keep racking up the points.

Maybe I feel like a bad sportsman because I am wanting to ramp up the score--but about 11 weeks and 5 days ago--Matt and I decided that we were in this to "win it" and give Miller the best life possible as his brother would have wanted it to be! We are definitely going to do it--though for some reason these next few weeks (7 weeks) seems like they are going to be the hardest. I have to keep telling myself that we have made it this far-so what is another 7 more weeks?? (However, tell yourself that while still trying to be a good patient and stay on bedrest.) So much to do in the next 7 weeks before he gets here.....need to get organized! Do you realize how much 1 baby requires---lots of clothes, burp clothes, diapers, etc... It is mind boggling!

However, through all of this mind boggling things and while looking back---Matt and I continue to realize that we are blessed to be in this situation and have one very special baby soon-to-be with us on earth and another special angel who is already in Heaven! He has been the greatest inspiration and cheerleader to Matt, Miller and myself! Go Team MM!

Wow--week 30 AND 2 days already! God's amazing work!

Peace and Love to you all--
Dana, Matt and MM

The Day Before...

Yes, today is Sunday, September 30th, and it is the day before the first day of Week 28!! Why is tomorrow so special? Well, because almost 10 weeks ago, we never thought we would get to be in the place that we are today which is the actual chance to have at least one of our babies! So, tomorrow, October 1st, marks Week 28---one of the biggest goals--if not THE biggest goals that we needed to accomplish! Tomorrow marks the day that we have "won" the game--but will still have plenty of time on the clock to keep adding points to our score!

Ok, let us take you back to a few appointments to catch you up. We went to the doctor during Week 26--Thursday, September 20th. We were expecting a perfect appointment like our others, but we got a little discouraging news. Miller's fluids had dropped down significantly enough to cause concern. However, there was nothing that we could do. He had to do it all on his own. Well, he must have felt his mommy worry--because between Dr. Berry and Dr. Uribe's office--he went from a 4 to an 8 to a 15 in his fluid level. Dr. Uribe and Julie said that when they do sonograms, it is just a quick snap shot and a times, they may reflect the lower levels.

Well, we had to go back in to see Dr. Berry last week to double check on our little guy and make sure all things were ok with him. In the meantime, between Week 26 and Week 27---Miller decided that he wanted to see his Aunt Julie--thus gave us another minor scare. Sweet Julie came and picked me up on Saturday to take me to the doctor's office and make sure all things were fine, and of course, they were!

Next, we had to go back this past Thursday to double check Miller's levels again. It was a quick appointment because all things were fine and his fluids were at a 14. (Normal range is 8 to 24) So back to normal---and also learned that we get to take another round of steroid shots on Monday and Tuesday---then again when we make it to week 32. These shots do inflict more pain than most--but to get to week 28 is a miracle and all miracles seem to come after experiencing some type of pain.

So, that brings you up to now.....all is good. No, all is great for the Delo household. Tomorrow is the offical day that we "win the game" but we still need to keep playing the "big game" until there is no more time on the clock. We just want to add more points to insure that the game is won by the biggest margin possible to give Miller the best chance possible to live a full and happy life!

Though Dana is getting tired of being on bedrest, we know we only have 8 weeks more to go before we get to hold our Miracle Miller. In the scheme of things--8 weeks will be easier than the last 10. We are just so blessed to get where we are--thus it makes it that much easier too!

As always--thank you for your continued support and prayers! We could have never gotten this far without each and everyone of you--our friends, family and our new found friends we may never get a chance to meet.

Peace and Love to all!
Dana, Matt and Miracle Miller

The Kindness of Strangers

Week 25 and 6 days---and still going strong thanks to the kindess of strangers. We keep looking towards our next goal of 28 weeks and it seems so far away from today. However, when you look back--7 weeks ago seems like an eternity and we were just praying to get where we currently are. We are truly blessed.

When we look back, we see so many acts of kindess from family, friends and from those we have never met. It is the kindess of strangers that is truly amazing gifts from God. Some of these strangers have come into our lives just at the "right time." We know that we have new friends that have already taught us how to be more loving and selfless just as they are.

Though they truly weren't the complete definition of "strangers", our friends, the People's have become just that---good friends that we will have in our lives for as long as they can stand us. They have shown us that miracles do happen as we have learned with their little boy---Miller. (Yes--their little boy was born at 27 weeks and I believe that he went home right before we lost Lawton.) Soon after they learned of our situation--both Danny and Stephanie contacted us to let us know that they were praying for us. Their heartfelt kindness and compassion, as well as their empathy has helped us especially since they had just experienced the stress of what we were facing.

Well, we are happy to report that their Miller is now 11 pounds big and still growing like a champ! We are now thinking that strength, courage and hope must be the "definition" of the name Miller--because we have a great role model in Miller Lee Peoples. We look forward to introducing the boys to each other one day soon (not too soon b/c Miller DeLo still has lots of growing to do.)

As for a true "stranger", by definition, that has reached out to us recently was a girl that has experienced the exact same situation as we are experiencing. Her name is Carol and we will just keep it at that to respect her privacy. Our paths crossed when a friend of ours, Christy, told us about her friend Jessica's sister-in-law who had the same "story" as ours--or so she thought. Christy sent us the link to Carol's blog--and I read it---and sure enough, it was as if we had found a needle in the haystack--her situation was identical to ours with the exception that she was expecting twin girls. Another needle in the haystack--she was 1 of the other 2 women in which Dr.Berry had performed the emergent cerclage on. (I am #3.) I am happy to report that she had her daughter Sophia during week 31 1/2 and Miss Sophia only had to spend 3 1/2 weeks in the hospital. This week, sweet Carol brought her daughter over to our house to meet us. It was an amazing experience to hold little Sophia and feel the renewed hope/strength that bed rest can sap out of you at times. This little girl (and her sweet mom) did so much for our spirits in their short visit. Thank you so much to Carol and Sophia! Today, she is 12 weeks old and weighs a little over 8 pounds. A true miracle!

Other moments of enlightenment and truth came in the from another "stranger" who is Randy from Promiseland Church. I remember Susie, my sister-in-law, telling me that Robin (Susie's sister) was going to send her pastor to come by and see me. Robin had told him about our situation and he wanted to see what he could do to help.

Randy did come by the hospital on the first day and I talked with him briefly. I honestly don’t know what I told him and I can’t tell you what he told me verbatim—but I can tell you that he came at a time when I was at the lowest place I had ever been before in my life. I kept praying to God to ask him for some comfort---and then God sent me Randy who had the most compassionate presence about him. I remember feeling so loved and cared for by someone I had never met before. I remember that he was a beacon of light in a very dark time of my life. I felt comforted that he came by to see me and that he offered his prayers for my babies and me.

I vaguely recall that he did come by again on the day that Lawton was taken from me physically and the same day that God gave Miller the courage and strength to continue the fight. I didn’t see Randy that day because it was too soon after my surgery and I was rather incoherent. However, Randy did speak with my family and said that he was going to continue to keep us in his prayers. Soon after Randy had been there “that day” and after it had registered in my mind that he had been there, I realized that he had shown me the comfort and strength of God’s love through his prayers. I was overwhelmed with this incredible calming feeling in a very volatile situation. I attribute this to many factors but the one underlying factor that has most moved me is the power of prayer—especially from strangers and my new-found friend, Randy.

Soon after my family had met Randy….Susie, my brother and his family went to Promiseland. As they were sitting there, they heard our name being included in the prayer list for that day. My brother quickly called me after church and told me about this. Matt and I were so touched that we were being included in the congregation’s prayers.

Each day since then, we keep hearing about more people praying for us—people we have never met—people who had heard about our need for prayer through their family, friends and the internet. We have been mentioned in several churches on Sundays--which is a true comfort to us. It is amazing to see God’s love in all aspects of life! It is truly one of many miracles we have seen. It is incredible to know that God always loves us and is always with us no matter what we may be facing in life. It is amazing to see the kindess of strangers.

Tomorrow starts Week 26 and we will have our doctors' appointments on Thursday-September 20th. We know that we are going to get some great news about how big Miller is growing! We can't believe that in a few short weeks--10 or a little less--that we are going to hold our Miracle in our arms! All of the prayers of ours, our family, our friends and our new friends who were once "strangers" are going to come true! We are truly, truly blessed in so many ways!

Peace and love to you all!
Dana, Matt and MM

Team Miracle Miller vs. the Other Guys

Currently, it is the end of the 3rd quarter and Team MM has finally pulled ahead and looking to post a win with only 1 more quarter to go. As of Tuesday when we went to the doctors' offices, we were at 24 weeks and 1 day. Dr. Berry and Dr. Uribe were very pleased with what they saw! Here are a few stats:

• Miller weighs approximately 1 pound and 7 ounces
• He is the size of a small loaf of bread from head to butt
• His fluid levels (the amniotic fluids) were 18.4 and the doctors want it be between 6 and 24.
• Once again, we heard--looks like a normal, singleton pregnancy. (ain't nothing normal about this pregnancy.)
• His heartbeat ranged from 155-161
• He still likes to get his picture taken and always starts with a "flash" of his privates to the camera first. (pretty funny)

So, after the initial appointment with Dr. Berry--it was suggested that we go on a steroid plan which involves 2 intramuscular shots. After we had taken (read: me/Dana) so many fertility shots to even get pregnant and to be where we are today---we thought it would be fairly easy to take. Matt was trying to convince the nurse to let him give it to me! (Thanks honey--but no thanks!) This shot was quite different because it was HUGE, burned like no other thing I have experienced (so far), and it lasted forever. I guess it seemed like it lasted forever because Matt was doing a "play by play" for me--such as "the needle is huge...is that a 18 gauge needle? and ok, honey--we are almost 1/2 done. It was funny though at the end of the first shot yesterday..and I had to go back in today for the second round. My poor brother had to take me today so I made him come in and let me squeeze his hand while I was getting the shot. I promised to not squeeze his hand so hard as to ruin his golf game. :)

As a refresher for you--these steroid shots will help Miller develop his lungs and membranes in his brain quicker. It will put him ahead by 2 weeks! This is huge for a premie if he decides to come before 36 weeks. So our next goal is to get the little guy to week 28--where his chances of survival without any major complications goes up by 50%! So, once we hit week 28, that will be the middle of the 4th quarter--and Team Miracle Miller will be winning the game without doubt. If we make it to week 34, then we are pounding our opponents--and by week 36, it will be a slaughter of a game with Team Miracle Miller beating the odds/competition decisively and by a HUGE margin! :)

During this whole experience/football game, we have experienced ups/downs, good/bad, positive/negative, sadness/rejoice, and every other emotion that can be felt. I surely thought we had felt them all by now--but after seeing the doctors yesterday--I was feeling that they just told me that I was pregnant for the first time again. I felt a true sense of "inspiration" and "hope" again! It was an incredible feeling but as strange as it sounds--I also found myself with a rather high anxiety level knowing that our child will be here soon. Anxiety because I find myself questioning if I am going to be a good mom (no doubt that Matt will be a GREAT dad), what do I do when he cries, how do I change a diaper properly and everything else that a first time mom questions prior to giving birth. Not too many get to experience the wonderful feelings that you get when you hear that after you have tried for so long to get pregnant--that you actually are--then to have that same great "you are truly pregnant" feelings re-occur again, it is truly a miracle. (Hard to explain this to men--but I am sure the women understand it).

We have been blessed with so many things throughout our pregnancy: getting pregnant (finally), blessed with twins, Baby Lawton becoming our angel in Heaven, MM being tough enough to fight it out to week 24 (and beyond), feeling truly pregnant again and realizing that our goal is within our reach.

Though the game is not over yet, the players are all healthy, tough and playing their little hearts out, the family and friends are cheering/praying for us so loudly that we are constantly inspired and strengthened more to win this game!

Peace and Love to all--

Dana, Matt and Miracle Miller

Happy "Non-Labor" Day

Today is Monday, September 3rd. Matt and I have decided to rename this holiday as "non-Labor" Day in honor of our little Miracle Miller! Today is also week 24---one of our many goals to hit...and we are all so happy to be here, though it was not without a few uneasy moments.

Sunday proved to be a more difficult day than others--mainly because I was having a few contractions more so than I had been having in the past. Well, Dr. Delorenzo (Matt) figured out that I had not been drinking enough water--thus this tends to increase the contractions. I guess this is Miller's way of telling me that he is very thirsty and to drink more. He obviously is working up a sweat by all of the moving and kicking he has been doing. (It is the greatest feeling I have ever experienced too) By the end of the day, I was doing great!

So, with this said...Happy "Non-Labor" Day to everyone! We hope that you get a chance to spend it with the people you love! We will be adding another blog update tomorrow because we get to go see Dr.Berry and Dr. Uribe--(my 2nd time out of the house since I have been home.) We know that they will be pleased with our progress!

Peace and love to you all!
Dana, Matt and MM

Monday, August 27th-Week 23

Ok, today it is official. Miller, Matt and I are in Week 23. (Full term babies and a "normal" pregnancy go to week 40) Between last week and this week, seemed like it dragged along, as I know that this next week will be even slower. As said in our last blog, week 24 is a huge milestone/goal for us! However, in our hearts, we know that we will hit that goal and then surpass our others.

While we were in the hospital, I had used a football analogy that this was sort of like a football game. After we had received good news from the doctors about my cervix closing and no infection, I told Matt that we were in the 2nd quarter of a National Championship football game and we were winning. Matt rephrased it as we were at the end of the 1st quarter, were getting our butts kicked 21-0 but were on our way to a comeback and had scored 14 points. So, we kept using this analogy throughout our hospital stay and shared it with Dr. Berry and Dr. Uribe right before we went into surgery. Dr. Berry said that it was halftime and that we had tied up the game. If we get to week 24-28, then we were well on our way to winning the game. After that, it was not a matter of if we win the game but by how much we want to "kick their butts". I told him that we wanted it really bad and to make this a game to go down in game-winning history! (I think I referenced a UT vs. Baylor game but Matt didn't appreciate it much!)

Anyway, in this upcoming season of college football, we are suited up, looking good and are playing our hearts out! We know that we have a lot of the game left to play but are taking it one play at a time and just moving that ball closer to the goal! We know that God is in our hearts and is our Coach, so we know that we are doing what it takes to put a "W" in the win column! Just as I know that the Longhorns will do the same. (go horns!)

So, I may not be at any of the games this year,but know that Matt, Miller and I are actively participating in one ourselves. You may see Matt at the games, if I can kick him out of the house and make him go, just so I can live my life vicariously through him. So, if you do see him, he will be there to scout out the Longhorns so that we may follow in their "National Championship" footsteps! I know that Miller is actively participating too because he reminds me every day by showing me that he can kick really hard, and is very "vocal" about which way I should be laying. I guess he is like the quarterback calling his plays and Matt and I are the receivers who will keep our eyes on the ball, catch it, run with our hearts to the goal line and believe that we can win this game! :)

Peace and love to you all!

Dana, Matt and Miracle Miller

August 22nd-So far, so good!

It has been a while since we posted on our blog, but once again--no news is good news! It has taken us about 1 1/2 weeks to settle down into the house. We are so blessed to be doing "bed rest" here instead of the hospital but I never realized how much harder it would be on the both of us--but more so Matt.

At the hospital, we had the comfort of nurses coming in to check on us and to hear Miller's heartbeat. Now, not so much. Poor Matt has taken place of all the nurses and clinical assistants (CA's), and has has to wait on me "hand and foot." Once again, he has proven to be an incredible husband and provider! I am so blessed in so many ways.

In order for us to be more secure with being at home, Matt is now looking to rent a Doppler which measures the baby's heart rate--like the ones they use in the doctor's office. If he could rent a sonogram machine and roll into the house, then he would do it. I told him that it is taking it a little too far--sort of like Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes did when they were expecting Suri. Anyway--Julie has stopped by a few times on her way home from work to check on Miller's heartbeat and to put our minds at rest. Not knowing what Miller is doing all of the time has to be one of the hardest thing about being away from the hospital but then again, I do miss the ice! :) We can't thank Julie enough for being such a wonderful friend and nurse to us! Once again,we are blessed with so many wonderful friends!

As for our meals--thank you so very much for all of y'all who have dropped off food. Obviously this has been a huge treat for us--especially Matt since he does not have to cook every night. These meals have been wonderful and I have successfully gained 3 of the 10 pounds I had lost in the hospital.

Speaking of weight, let us update you on Miracle Miller. We went to see Dr. Uribe and Dr. Berry yesterday and it was the best day I have had so far since leaving the hospital! It was the best for many reasons and they are as follows:

• It was the first time I got to get dressed up to go "out".
• It was a fun car ride--sort of--the bumps would scare me a little.
• I almost felt like a normal person just "going to the doctor"
• Dr. Uribe was pleased with seeing Miller's progression and his fluid level!
• My bed rest regime is going good and it is showing through Miller's growth.
• Dr. Berry said that he thought it looked like a normal, healthy pregnancy when he saw the sonogram results.
• Miracle Miller weighs 1 pound and 4 ounces--close to a Week 24 baby! (he is only 22 weeks and obviously an "overachiever") :)
• On the way home, we snuck over to my brother's house to see my sister-in-law, nieces, nephew and their newest addition--a puppy named Izzy.

All in all, it was a great day yesterday. Dr. Berry was pleased and for those of you who know the whole story and my "old" nickname for him, this is hard to do! He is an amazing doctor who took a huge chance/risk on us to give us the best chance to bring Miller into this world! So far--so good! We have 2 weeks to go before we see our doctor's again--but at that time, we will start a new regiment using steroids to get his lungs more developed in case he wants to come early (hope not--his room is not even close to being completed!) :)

August 13th--Home Sweet Home

Yes...we finally made it home to "the Creek" as Matt calls it. We got our "walking papers" on Saturday AM, and I don't think I could have gotten out of the hospital sooner! The idea of just being at home gave us all renewed strength to our ongoing battle. However, it didn't come without a few more tears.

As I was being wheeled out of the hospital by Sister Linda--I quickly learned that my departure was bittersweet. I busted out into tears because I felt that I was leaving a huge part of me and my heart at the hospital and that was baby Lawton. It just didn't feel exactly right and it hurt so very much! As I was being put into the car, I continued crying while Matt and Mom were trying to get all things accumlated into the car as fast as possible, so that they could console me. As Matt was trying to stuff in a beautiful, big butterfly balloon--it came loose and starting flying away. As Matt was apologizing that he had lost the balloon, I quickly stopped crying and looked up to watch it. It was a beautiful sight watching it fly into the blue, cloudless sky, towards the sun. Once again, I found a sense of peace and comfort. I honestly think that this was God and Lawton telling me that all was ok and that Lawton was safe.

So, we are all here at home--Matt, Miller, Jake, Truman and me AND loving it. It is so nice to be at home, in my own bed with my own things. However, I must keep telling myself that though I am at home, I am still on bed rest! There are so many things that need to be done before Miller gets here but I guess I can turn to the internet for these things. (Being connnected to the "real world" is a blessing in itself!) Lucky for me, I have many friends, sister (Susie), and mom who all want to help with Miller's room so I know that I am in great hands.

Anyway, we have an appointment with Dr. Berry and Dr. Uribe next Tuesday afternoon, and we know that they will be both be pleased with how good Miller and I are doing! :) Other than that---not much else is going on with the exception of being able to do some work from home and feel like I am contributing as a "normal" person would be doing. Give us a call here at 330-1722 or you are always welcomed to visit anytime!

Peace and Love to you all!
Dana, Matt and Miracle Miller

August 10th

Good news gets even better! As of our last entry, after the surgery....I have been progressively getting better...so much that we heard the word "home". There is a chance that we get to continue our fight from home since Miller has been so good---and of course, our doctor's have been brilliant! We are still not out of the woods but have accomplished another goal. Week 36 here we come! Ok, I know that it is 16 weeks away but Miller, Matt and I know that we are going to get there!

So, this is Day 17 in the hospital...and I walked for the first time in last night--since I was admitted on July 25th. It was the most incredible feeling. Guess you could say that I was taking "baby steps". For this--I am so blessed to be out of my bed and feel sort of back to normal!

Anyway, here are a few things I have learned both funny and serious:

• Pedicures last longer when you don't get the chance to walk.
• Hair on one's legs seems to not grow as fast when you are lying in bed.
• Flowers do brighten a dark hospital room---even when the flowers are dying.
• Some people do say stupid things to those who are in the hospital ("Did that just come out of your mouth?")
• I will NEVER again wish I could just "lay around in bed" again!
• A sponge bath w/hair wash--next best thing to Lake Austin spa
• Soft, fuzzy, warm socks are the best invention
• God is ALWAYS with me!
• The nurses at Seton are incredible loving people. Nurses are truly people who have the biggest hearts..and they should get paid more for what they do!
• There is such a person as a compassionate and brilliant doctor as seen with Dr. Uribe and Dr. Berry! With out their persistence...I would not have had any options nor would we have had a chance to experience Miracles!
• The true and pure meaning of "love" as seen through our friends and family!
• The Holy Spirit is comforting, calming and is an incredible feeling.
• The power of love and prayer is amazing!
• Miracles do happen---seen now and will be seen throughout the next 16 weeks.

So we will continue to fight this battle but in the comfort of our own home! To say Matt, Miller and I are excited is a huge understatement! Come see us at 2411....where my "room" will be bigger and more comfortable! Plus more space in the fridge to offer you a beer or a glass of wine!

Love to you all! Prayers still encouraged and welcomed!

SUCCESS!!!!

Another blessing has been bestowed upon the DeLorenzo family! Dana's surgery went perfect and the amnio on Miller was even better! Dr. Berry and Dr. Uribe visited with Jim, Sonia and I after the surgery and informed us that Dana as usual was an over-achiever. Dr. Berry displayed a strong confidence in her success which put all of us at ease. We can not give enough thanks to the doctors, nurses, friends and family for all of their support during this time of need. Dana is resting well in room 246 and has orders to get out of bed and walk tomorrow if she feels up to it. Yes actually get out of bed! Dr. Berry indicated that we can return home Friday or Saturday with Dana on continued bed rest for another 7-10 days. We will consult with Dr. Uribe on his decision of when we return to our home but all signs show positive and we continue to stay strong in our faith. This has been a unique experience of highs and lows but we stay determined to bring Miller and Dana through this with a 30+ week delivery. Our next milestones are as follows: Return home within the next few day and continue our journey to 28 weeks. When all goes well we have a new milestone of 32 weeks and then 36+. Dr. Berry conveyed that anything over 30 weeks is great progress and that we should focus our energy on getting to that point.

So we are doing well and looking forward to getting through the next 48 hrs with no infection and limited contractions. Dana is awesome and is a tough women who is on a mission. I admire her strength and resolve to make this family a reality. I love her more each day and thank God he has blessed my life with her love. Please know we will try to return everyone's calls but the next day or two will be busy for us so please understand that we all appreciate your support. I ask we hold off on visitors for the next day or two so Dana can focus on her recovery and rest.

As always please continue to keep us in your prayers.

August 8th

I learned a new scripture yesterday in a book (The Buzz by Thelma Wells) that my dear friend-Lashonda gave me last week. It is Phillipians 4:13 that states "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I truly believe that and know that God loves us--especially our little Miller!

We are so blessed and we completely Trust Him! Through this whole "lesson", we know we are in a good place though others may not view it the same. We have a great sense of calm feelings that we are following the right step and that this will work!

Ok, it is 11:30am and I am not nervous about anything but rather excited! We are doing general anesthia (sp?) so I can go into this as positive as I am feeling now and come out of it just as positive. If I had to be awake for the whole thing, then I am not sure how strong and positive I could be in a state like that. Anyway, no harm to Miller and in fact, I am more at ease knowing that he is going to be sleepy too--and not as hyper during the amniocentesis which puts my mind even more at ease. (He loves getting his picture taken--sort of like his Uncle Greg and gets a little hyper while we do sonograms. He is very proud that he is a boy and likes to show "it" off too---Miller that is, not my brother!) :)

The whole procedure does not take long at all and I should only be in recovery for about 1 1/2 hours afterwards--which is longer than the surgery itself. I will encourage Matt to update this blog tonight so that all of y'all will know the outcome--which will be positive once again! Please say a prayer for all of us starting at 6pm. As said, we have seen the power of prayer and this will be no different than the Miracles we have experienced thus far.

As said earlier: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!" Praise God!

Peace and Love to all of you and your families!
Dana, Matt and our little Miracle Miller

August 7th

Dumb wipe board is wrong again...it says the 6th. Don't these nurses know how very important it is to keep up with the right date? I have learned way too much about being a patient in the hospital--especially since this is Day 14 and counting....

However...Day 14 possibilities are more positive than Day 1 and here is where we are today: After seeing Dr. Berry on Sunday and getting the good news about other options AND after talking to Dr. Uribe late last night, we have come to the decision to go ahead and proceed with the surgery. (Stop reading if you don't want details and just want to leave it at that.....b/c here is about to be too much info)

The surgery is called Suclage (sp?). Basically it is reinforcing my cervix by stitching me closed. The more Miller eats and gets fatter (exactly what we want), then he will weigh approximately the same weight as both of my boys once did---thus putting more pressure on my incompetent cervix and the possibility of his membrane rupturing like Lawton's did puts us back in the danger zone. Since just laying around and not getting out of bed does not seem like an proactive option, we decided to go with Dr. Berry and Dr. Uribe's suggestion of the surgery. Dr. Berry equated it to a woman's purse that has a drawstring at the top of it (personally, I am picturing the old Dooney & Bourke purse I once had in high school.) to keep it closed tight and reinforced. The success rates of this surgery is good and what we are gambling on--odds look good enough to go for it..plus Matt and I feel like to be more proactive is smarter than reactive at this point in Miller's and our lives.

Another sign that we are moving in the right direction (I like to call them "Godsigns") is that the anestheologist (the doctor who gives you the good drugs that puts one into a sound sleep) that was recommended to us by Lisa Coffman (through her best friend who knows the business very well b/c she is in it---you know friend of a friend) happens to be working the night shift tomorrow night the same time we are scheduled for surgery--6pm. Go figure! It is another small and amazing miracle that we are heading in the right direction.

So, the only thing we need is all of y'all to start praying at 6pm on Wednesday night for our little Miracle Miller that he may cooperative throughout and after the surgery and onto week 34+, pray for the steadiness of the Doctor's hands, pray for Matt and my continued strength through the surgery and after in recovery and beyond. Matt and I are so very positive about this new option and we know in our hearts that it is all going to work out!

Love to you all!

08-05-07

We received positive news today about our pregnancy. I was at breakfast at La Madeline enjoying the Sunday paper and coffee waiting for my French Continental breakfast when Dana called my cell phone. She said with enthusiasim "Dr. Berry is here"! I was looking forward to a quiet morning reading the paper and enjoying my breakfast but duty called so I downed my breakfast and then rushed back to the hospital.

As I was walking briskley back to the hospital I was feeling calm about things and knew we were going to have good news today. As I entered the room Dr. Berry was sitting comfortably in the chair enjoying the company of Dana and two nurses. I apologized for being late and asked how things went today with the visit. With some passion in his voice he began telling us that he did not have high expectations about our situation at first, however that he was very encouraged of what the results of his examination were with Dana. He said that we now have a few more options available to us since Dana's cervix is still closed and that Miller's size and fluid levels looked great. He said that only 10% of women who experience what we have so far get to this point that provides them additional options that can increase the chances for a successful pregnancy.

We thanked him for this encouraging news and said we would wait to make any decision as to how to proceed until we discussed everything with Dr. Uribe. Stay tuned...the best is yet to come!

Thank you again for everything...especially the prayers.

Friday, August 3rd

No news is good news! It has been this way since our last entry and hopefully will continue this way for us for the next 12+ weeks. I had a good night last night and I woke up feeling renewed with strength that we are going to deliver a healthy Miller after week 34. We realize that each good day/night is a blessing and one step closer to our goal. It also amazes me in the power of prayer because I know that God is listening to all of ours and your prayers.

Dr. Uribe is out of town until Monday but he checks in every day with us via phone. I told him to relax and enjoy his time off--and that things were quiet and boring here. After our last conversation with him....he said that we needed to take this day by day---then as those remain quiet and boring, then our next goal is week 24. After that, week 28 (chances for Miller's survival go up dramatically), then the goal of week 32. Dr. U said that if all goes well until that timeframe, then he will want us to deliver Miller during week 34. Personally, we are setting our sights on week 36 especially since we know that Miller is going to be stubborn and want to stay in and grow some more! So, we have our goals---and in addition, we have heard that we may get to go home for a few weeks but Dr. U is still not convinced of this yet. Though we would love to be in the comfort of our own home, it is a little scarey to be away from the comfort of the hospital--knowing that great nurses and doctor's are just steps away. Who knows---I may change my mind next week after getting tired of this small hospital room and bad food. :)

So, it is day 10 in the hospital and I thought it was going to be a tougher day than normal espcially since we lost Baby Lawton one week ago today. However, I keep going back to the fact that I know he is in a much better place--in Heaven and in God's arms. He is safe. He is our angel looking out for us and especially for his big brother. So while we still grieve and will continue to do so, we still count all of our many blessings. This experience has been a life stopping, life altering, and one that we have learned many lessons from. We will continue to learn throughout our journey and we will continue to pray that we grow in love and strength for each other, for Miller, and for all of our family and friends! Thank you again for your many prayers---they are definitely working!

Dana & Matt

August 1st--I think

Hi all--
I haven't gone back to read what Matt has written but as always, I am sure it has been eloquent and concise. Well, it is Wednesday, August 1st--I think. This is because it has been the longest week of our lives--plus the dry-erase board in our room has not been updated to today's date. I am fairly certain it is August 1st because tomorrow is my niece's (Meghan) 5th birthday. I had asked Matt to go out and buy her a birthday gift but he is convinced that she really wants an empty vase that she can "put cool stuff into." Of course, I told him that this was not a good gift for a 5 year old and that anything "princess" would be perfect--rather than an empty vase. Happy Birthday sweet Meghan!

Anyway--to get everyone up to speed....here is what we have learned today from the best doctor in the whole wide world--Dr. Uribe. All blood tests are either negative and/or are getting back to normal after having to deliver Lawton. Also-they did a special test on the membrane around Lawton (I think that is what was tested) and it came back negative for bacteria--which is another great sign that there may have not been enough time for infection to set in. Praise God! This has been one small ray of hope and light through a very dark time--and we know that there are many more to come!

Dr. Uribe also told us that he has done tons (read: TONS) of research and that he is fairly certain he has read all of the reseach related to cases like mine....except for the ones written in German and I know that he will probably take a german class between now and the next time I see him. I can't say enough about how incredible he is both as a doctor, as a person and as our friend! Anyway--he did find a case where a woman had almost the exact situation as me and delivered a rupture of Twin A at 18 weeks and delivered healthy Twin B at 35 weeks--all with bed rest and bed pan--no amnio or stitches-- (ok--sorry probably too much information there.) In addition to this article, a very dear friend shared her complete story with me that had escaped my mind but it all came flooding back when we were talking. She now has a beautiful son that she says has the strength of both twins--and obviously is definite miracle. I know him personally--and he is an incredible young man. All of this just gives me renewed strength after this very long week. I have an incredible feeling each day that is amazingly beautiful and renewing. I know that God and Baby Lawton is with all of us at all times--and Miracle Miller kicks me constantly to remind me that he is ready and willing for this big fight that we are in.

Lastly--my very organized husband is getting bombarded with requests to bring food to the hospital because obviously everyone knows how bad the food is here (though the Chicken a la King was decent at lunch today.) Anyway--to keep us sane--he has decided to buy a calendar for our beautiful hospital walls to keep up with all of the sweet offers. Obviously, we appreciate these offers immensely--and I know he will be better once we get the "meals on wheels" to us organized. We understand that y'all have your own very busy lives--so let us know what day/days are good for you and we can refer to our new calendar.

Love to you all--and thank you for all of your thoughts, well wishes, food, flowers, visits and prayers! Through all of this--we find our lives to be even more amazing and blessed than ever! Hugs and kisses from me, Matt and Miracle Miller!!

7/31/07

Just a quick update today...

We spoke with Dr. Uribe this AM and received good news that Dana and Miller are both doing well. He is measuring out around 20 weeks from the Sono which puts us 1 week ahead of schedule. He will continue to grow as a singleton so we can expect a normal growth rate from this point forward. Dana is off the IV and is now on oral antibiotics which is another positive sign and will help decrease the chance of infection. So far everything is a good as we can hope and we both are doing well. I am going to spend the night at home this evening and take care of a few items and get some rest. We love the idea of having lunch or dinner brought to us so please continue to call and ask Dana what she feels like eating. It is a big help and will continue to increase her appetite.

On another funny note, I had our two year anniversary dinner with the 2nd best option next to Dana. Greg and I enjoyed some wine and Sushi which was a unique anniversary experience but one that I enjoyed very much. Though it was not the same as being there with Dana I appreciate the investment of his time and wisdom as always. Thanks again.

Please continue to contact us. We are doing great and look forward to making further progress on our situation.

We hope everyone is well!

07/30/07

It’s 8am and we had a good night. So good, that I have insisted to Matt that I wanted to write the entry for today. (Obviously feeling good because I am getting “bossy” again.)

Last night was uneventful—which is exactly what we want. The only exception is that I kept having bad thoughts and dreams trying to creep in on me. I realized that this was probably Satan trying to get into the situation—but with each negative thought that tried to rear its ugly head—I just said a prayer to God which comforted me and Miller. The morning came soon after and then the sun was shining! Once again, Matt, Miller and I are comforted by God’s presence in our lives. Another sign was when I woke up, Matt handed me a quote that Mama Sandy (Matt’s mom) had seen in our house. It is a daily quote from the author Marianne Williamson that says: “Intimacy is where we are willing to move so deeply into love that the demons do not deter us from our conviction to make it through to the light.” Obviously this quote was perfect for the day that it was meant for (July 27th—the day that Baby Lawton went to Heaven to be with our Mighty God) as well as today. I believe it is a great quote for our entire journey that we have embarked upon since last Wednesday.

Our little Miracle Miller is doing well and keeps reminding me that he is there which is a huge relief. The nurses come in and check for his heartbeat 2-3 times a day and he is very active which is good. I know that he is active because he is so strong AND I feel that he is still looking around for his brother. I have to remind him that his little brother, Lawton is in Heaven but looking out for him, his mama, and his daddy.

We know that Miracle Miller is so very strong because of his good genes. Between his stubborn mom and dad, he also has the Meserole and DeLorenzo strong fighting genes too. I know that Matt has said he is amazed by my strength---but his strength is even more amazing than mine. He has had to endure watching me go through all of this without getting a chance to fix things which he always likes to do.

Today is our 2nd anniversary and I love him more than I did when I first met him, when we got married, when we conceived Lawton and Miller. The love for him that I have is the kind that you can’t fully explain with words and the kind that each great movie and/or book strives to create but falls short. I pray that each of you find this kind of love if you have not already. The only thing I can do is thank God for all that he has given me.

Lastly—sorry this is so long but you have figured out by now that our spirits are up which is an incredible feeling. I know that Matt has said this before, but thank you for all of your love, support and most of all, your prayers! We know that we are so loved by all of our family and friends that it is overwhelming. I don’t know how we can return the favor of your many prayers, love and kindness, but I do know that we will be trying to thank all of you for the rest of our lives. The one way I can think of is by letting our little Miracle Miller give all of y’all lots of hugs and kisses when he gets here after week 30!

So with all of this said---the party continues in Room 219 at Seton. Please feel free to come by and say “hi” to all of us! Definitely try to get Matt out of the room for a beer or two because he deserves it and needs a break. (However, no Texas Hold’em or “Shallenge” for the time being because I get a little scared being away from him for so long.) Oh—when he does get out of here for his first round of golf----boys, please give him some strokes because I know that his game has suffered too)

Love, Joy and Peace to all of you!
Dana, Matt and our little M&M (Miracle Miller)

7/29/07

We had another good day with our progress with little change in our situation from Saturday. We both slept well through the night and enjoyed a great morning with my brother Mike bringing us Starbucks and Kolaches. We also enjoyed seeing a good friend who we have not seen in sometime come by and bring us some treats. Thanks Mark!

Our spirits are high and we enjoyed watching some TV that only a Sunday morning can provide in a church service we just flipped on and started watching. While there were several times I wanted to say "change the channel" I held off because I could see it brought peace to Dana. As we watched and listened to the sermon I grew interested in the message and at the end of it was glad we watched the program. We discussed the it afterwards and both agreed with the message and felt it impacted our lives at least for the day and hopefully longer. As we struggle through this time I think we both feel we find ourselves growing stronger in our faith and love for each other. It is amazing how certain struggles we find in our lives can change them forever. When you think you love someone so much and that you can't love them any more than you do, it is a awesome feeling to reach a higher point in your relationship. I feel closer to Dana at this time than I ever have in our marriage which we will celebrate our 2 year anniversary on Monday the 30th of July. We reminisced that two years ago to this day we were celebrating our rehearsal dinner with all of our family and friends. We have grown in many ways since that time but I am proud to say we have grown most in our faith and love for each other.

So here is where things stand: Monday is a big day for us from what we have been told by the doctors and that our situation will be reassessed to determine what next steps we will take to continue our fight. From what we know as of today we will be in the hospital until we deliver Miller. This could be day to day or 12 to 15 weeks. Our hope is to be able to return home with Dana on permanent bed rest and enjoy the comfort of our home. The hospital staff and resources have been great but we grow tired of living in a 10 x 12 room. Miller's heartbeat was strong showing numbers between 155 and 167. Dana is amazing and you will probably see me say this 1000 times throughout this journey. She is a trooper and gives me strength each day.

Dr. Uribe mentioned today that Dana could come off 100% bed rest and use the restroom on her own. It was a encouraging sign however we decided to take it easy for another day or two and see where we stand.

I would like to thank everyone for their calls and visits. We promise to call each of you back in our own time and we ask that you call if you would like to visit. Dana tires easily and we never want to say no to visitors but sometimes we need to have some downtime as I am sure you understand. We gain strength from the calls, emails, and visits so please continue to do so.

A special thank you to our family's we could not get through this without your support.

7/28/07 Update

In our efforts to keep everyone updated on our situation we created a blog spot for everyone to access and for you to pass onto others who would like to stay informed on our progress. We will try to update as often as possible. Aunt Julie gave us the "Miracle Miller" name so we thought it was perfect to share with all of our family and friends.

We first would like to thank everyone for their support and prayers through this very difficult time in our lives. We understand that there is nothing anyone can say that will take away our pain but all the support of family and friends make this time easier for us to deal with and enrich our lives more than we can ever express. We lost Lawton on Friday who is our guardian Angel looking over his brother who misses him. Lawton is in Heaven and will continue to look down on our family and keep us safe.

We are so blessed with so many great friends that it is overwhelming how fortunate we are to have such a support network. We encourage you to email, call, visit or just support us so please continue to do so and do not worry about the false perception of intrusion. We LOVE it and want to say thank you!

Today we moved to room 219 and I finally have a bed to sleep on that does not have a metal bar in my back while I am sleeping. My golf game will surely suffer but that means all of my Bruze's will have to give me strokes once I do get back on the course. Dr. Uribe, Julie Long and the Seton staff have been the best. We can not say enough thanks to them for their support and dedication to our family. Dr. Uribe is amazing and if any of you ladies want a Doctor with a great bedside manner and a true appreciation of what it means to be a nurturing Doctor he is the man you want to see. Julie is also amazing and we love her so much for her support and friendship. They both are part of our family and we can never show enough appreciation for their support. We love you both!

We are doing great and Dana is a tough lady who is exceeding all expectations. Miller is great as well with a strong 160+ heartbeat. I appreciate her more with each day she is in my life and though this experience has shown us many difficult times, she is truly my world and I love her more than she will ever know. If I could take away this pain for her I would give anything to do so, I just try to be a good supportive husband and say "Yes Dear" more often.

All of our numbers, counts, and medical prognosis are as good as can be expected. We do have a large hill to climb and we both are up for the fight and look forward to the day we bring Miller home. We both know that this is in God's hands and we pray everyday that he will continue to keep this path in his plan.

I also want to apologize for any grammatical errors or poor sentence structure now as I am typing from a laptop and love spell checker which is not available on this tool. Please forward this link to anyone and everyone you feel would like to share in our Miracle story. Thank you again for all your support and well keep the light on for you.

You can reach us at mattdelo@sbcglobal.net or my cell (512) 289-3766. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Dana, Matt, and Miller