The hospital stay

Summer stayed in hospital for two and half weeks. This was partly due to the fact that she had an infection and had to be given antibiotics for just over a week.

Straight after she was born the exomphalos was covered in clingfilm to protect it as well as reduce heat and fluid loss. Summer had a canula in each hand so that she could receive fluids and/or drugs intraveneously. She also had a tube put down her nose so that she could be fed through an NG tube to begin with. Her heart and lungs were constantly monitored and for a few days she received extra oxygen through the nose.

The clingfilm on her belly had to be changed on a daily basis and the exomphalos washed and then redressed. This was originally done by the doctors but after three days mummy and daddy took over (under supervision to start with!) and we have done it ever since.

After two weeks the doctors decided to alter the type of dressing on Summers exomphalos to make it easier for us and more comfortable for her. We are now cleaning the exomphalos in the bath and then put on Mepital (which is a damp gauze type material). This is then covered with a Tubifast material to hold it in place. It is really easy to change and only takes a few minutes. It is more comfortable for Summer as the clingfilm tended to sweat and made her a little sore.

Once the infection had cleared up Summer was ready to come home. The doctors chatted to us to make sure we were happy with looking after her at home - of course we were dying to get her home so finally on Friday 25th July 2008 we were just the three of us!!