Facing Forward: Two Months Until Surgery

As the weeks roll by and Carver grows stronger, we’re inching closer to the date that’s been sitting heavy on our hearts. These days are filled with tiny victories, a few new challenges, and a whole lot of love. Here's what life looks like at this stage of Carver’s cleft journey.

10 weeks with the NAM device! It truly has made such a difference

Carver is doing so well. We’ve finally been fitted for his nasal stent, which he now wears along with his NAM device. He’s surprisingly resilient to the adjustment, another testament to how tough our little guy already is. The real challenge has been on us: making sure the stent is in just the right position. If it shifts, it can affect the development of his nasal cartilage and make one nasal passage larger than the other. No pressure, right?

We’re really hoping he’ll only need to wear it for a few weeks. I do worry he’ll start noticing it soon and begin tugging on it, but so far, he’s taking it like a champ.

Don't let this face fool you! He was crying because he was hungry.. he really doesn't mind this device being in! The nasal stent fits perfectly into his little nasal cartiladge. It doesn't go in too far into the nose either

Feeding has been going great. We recently added a teaspoon of Kendamil goat milk formula to my breast milk he was getting. I noticed changes in his stool and some gassy discomfort, and this tweak seems to be helping. The added calories should also support healthy weight gain, which is especially important as we prepare for surgery.

We’re also in the process of switching pediatricians, ideally to someone with more experience in caring for cleft lip babies. Having that extra level of understanding and familiarity would bring us so much peace of mind.

And yes… the countdown is officially on. Exactly two months until Carver’s first surgery. September 19th is marked on my phone, my calendar, and ours hearts.

It’s a strange thing, counting down the days for something like this. Most new parents are doing everything they can to slow down time, to savor every newborn moment. And we are too, but with the added layer of anticipation and anxiety about what’s ahead. Knowing our baby will be put under for a major operation is something no parent can ever truly be ready for.

We continue to face each day as it comes, meeting every obstacle with determination and grace, because that’s what Carver teaches us to do. He’s strong, and we know he’ll come through this with that same fighting spirit. But the weight of what’s coming doesn’t get any lighter.

Our baby boy is always so happy! We will miss this first little smile

I’ll keep sharing updates on his progress and milestones as we head into the final stretch before surgery! We’re beyond thankful for every kind message, every story shared, and every moment someone says, “You’re not alone.” That connection has meant the world. I’m already helping another family whose baby is about to be fitted with his first NAM, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to pay forward the advice and comfort I once received not too long ago.