Two months ago, I asked for input on a baby with VATER
syndrome who was compressing mother's nipples long after
his tongue-tie was clipped.  We used a long list of
remedies from finger feeding and CST to Dr. Jack's ointment.
He had surgery to give him an intestinal outlet hours after
birth.  Mother learned that because of the fragile
intestine, these babies should never be given formula.
Good thing she fought off the formula in the early weeks.
He is four months old and 16 pounds, a lovely big fellow,
snuggled against his mama night and day.  He nurses
exclusively even though mom still gets a bit sore at
times.
Shortly after birth, they knew of some defects in his
spine.  Recently, they began investigation of his muscle
problems.  Mother noticed that he still couldn't lift his
head while on his stomach, for one.
The experts determined that he has so much weakness on the
one side of his face, mouth and tongue that he should not
have been able to breastfeed.  And if he could breastfeed,
he couldn't keep her supply up.  Did I mention he is 16
pounds and exclusively breastfed?
He is not having the expected skin problems around his
colostomy bags.  He has grown so well at the breast, his
next surgeries will be sooner than expected.
Don't we just love determined mothers!
Thanks for the help.  Pam Easterday LLLL Mt. Vernon, Ohio

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