The Middle:

A strange new normal began. We set up Lily's crib and equipment in the kitchen so she could be very much part of the mayhem. We were blessed with our families and professional support. Our friends rallied together to help us, which we are very grateful for. We were granted home nursing support from Palliative Care and The Jack and Jill Foundation. We used these hours at night so we could get some sleep. We did choose to do one night a week from week 2 to week 6 as Lily was doing so well and I wanted to do the normal new-born mom thing. I felt cheated as I was getting sleep when my friends with new-borns were up doing feeds etc.

I soon realised that I was not physically or mentally able to keep going around the clock caring for Lily as well as a 4yr old and a 2yr old and the constant stream of callers. Our families called almost every day for their cuddle and kisses. We quickly moved from wanting Lily all to ourselves to wanting to show her off. My theory was that I will be talking about this amazing, brave little lady for years to come and I wanted my friends and family to have a picture of a happy baby in their minds. So the revolving door began. Every day we arranged a 'timetable' so that people wouldn't arrive at the same time. Couldn't 'timetable' my family though!! They all just arrived for their daily fix! I felt so proud being able to show off my new-born. She was and will always be my 3rd pink lady.