My "Birth" Day
Written Jul 21, 2012 10:12pm by Jerri Martin
Quintin Riley Martin was born at 4:47pm on Thursday July 19th, 2012 at the Chambersburg Hospital. She arrived a bit early, weighing in at 5 pounds 13.7 ounces, and measuring 18 inches long.
Quintin was not due to arrive until closer August 1st. However, at a routine weekly appointment, the Doctor noticed a few things that suggested that Quintin be born early...so we were off to the Hospital.
Name and Date!
Written Jul 21, 2012 10:18pm by Jerri Martin
Baby's official full name is Quintin Riley Martin...but you can call her Quin, for short.
It took a LONG time for us to decide on a name. No matter what, no name was right for our little princess. A few weeks ago (early July) Dustin suggested the name Quin or Quintin. We agreed right away, that would be her name. We didn't know any history or meaning of the name, nor did we pick out a middle name to go with it. A few days later, out of curiousity, I looked up the name to find the origin and meaning. Here's what I learned:
Quintin - (Latin) meaning "fifth"
I know to most of you that really doesn't hold any significance, however, to our little family it does.
Quintin is baby girl #4 in the Martin family...but, she is our "Fifth Born" child!
As for her middle name, Riley, we need to thank my niece Peyton for the suggestion!
Quintin's birthday is special also. She shares the date with her maternal Great-Grandmother Vada Helfrick. So, in honor and memory of Grandma Vada Statler Helfrick...HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!
Day 3
Written Jul 22, 2012 3:42pm by Jerri Martin
Day 3: Quintin's Diagnosis
It is very painful and difficult for me to type this entry. So many thoughts are running through my mind right now, and old wounds are being reopened.
I have typed these words several times now, and it isn't getting easier to see them written out on the screen.
We spoke to the doctors yesterday and again this morning and unfortunately the diagnosis is still the same. There are several issues we are dealing with concerning Quintin's condition. We are still very much trying to process the information we have been given. With out going in to too much detail, and put it simply, Quintin has been diagnosed with a Mytochondrial Disorder, which may or may not be genetic.
As we learn more details about the condition, we will add some more information...
Unfortunately, right now, there is not a lot of detail to go along with the diagnosis. Just know...right now, more than ever, we are praying for a miracle! We have complete belief and faith in God's healing touch in her little life. We know that beyond a shadow of a doubt that He has BIG plans for her.
This verse was shared with me on Quintin's birthday, and I wanted to pass it on...
Habakkuk 1:5
I am working a work in your lives which you will not believe, though it be told you.
Day 4
Written Jul 23, 2012 11:49am by Jerri Martin
Monday July 23rd
Yesterday, we had a nice visit with family. My sister brought Paisley along too...what a nice surprise. She brings so much joy, I can't even begin to describe. Dustin ended up going home with them, to see the older girls and bring them back today. As I type, I am sitting in Quin's room and Dustin is starting his 3 hour drive back to Philly.
The Doctors made their rounds earlier this morning and didn't have anything new to report, at this point. We will be meeting with the Metabolic Team and the Neonatologist this afternoon to get a complete report.
I did get the chance to meet with the Neurologist this morning, and they did take Quin off the anti-siezure meds. There was some thought that she was having siezures earlier in the weekend. However, after reviewing her EEG and video EEG, the doctor was able to confirm that she was NOT having siezures. While this news doesn't really change any the outcome of Quin's condition, it is one less thing we are worrying about. So, in my mind..that's a good thing!!
Over the course of the night, Quin was also weened off the dopamine they were giving her to help with her blood pressure. Her blood pressure was able to regulate on it's own...
Again, this isn't a huge accomplishment in the big scheme of things, however, it is another thing I can check off the list to worry about. Plus, I think one less med going through her little body is a good thing!!
We are continuing to spend as much time with Quin, as possible, cherishing every moment we have. I can't understand God's plan, nor do I really want to. But, I am holding out for something BIG.
Thank you for praying with us and for us...there are no words to describe the experience we are going through, nor are there words right enough to express our gratitude for all your support!!
Power in weakness!
Written Jul 23, 2012 11:23pm by Dustin Martin
As day four comes to a close, my heart grows heavy as I (Dustin) watch my little princess slowly fade. My faith is tried, and my mind and body are weak. Why my little princess too?! I asked God to remove this torn. I was reminded of 2Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." I know my God it's bigger! I know my God is stronger! I know my God is higher than any other!
"Thank you God for my little princess. May your power be perfect in my weakness, Amen"
Day 5: Making memories
Written Jul 24, 2012 12:31pm by Jerri Martin
Update: Last night, Dustin & I met with Quin's medical team. This team consisted of her primary nurse, Metabolic Specialist, and Neonatologist. We were given a very tough decision, one we never dreamt we would have to make again, after losing Baby Todd. To put it simply, the meds that Quin was receiving to fight the acids in her blood were no longer working. Basically they were maxed out! Our choice was to continue treatment, which would do nothing but cause her body to swell and cause her more discomfort. OR, stop treatments and just allow her body to do it's thing and relieve some of her discomfort while we wait. We, VERY painfully decided to stop the treatments and just enjoy every moment we have, with our little angel. She looks so peaceful and calm right now, it's so hard to believe that she is so incredibly sick.
I had a chance to hold her and snuggle with her this morning, I was in complete peace as she snuggled in my arms. Dustin is holding her right now. As I watch them, I can't even begin to describe the love he is pouring out on her right now.
And, to think, that this love we are feeling for our Baby Quin, doesn't even compare to the love of our Heavenly Father.
I wouldn't be honest if I didn't admit feelings of defeat, and pain...I think that is to be expected. But, above that defeat, I feel an overwhelming peace. It is a peace that provides comfort and a hope that only our Heavenly Father can give.
A hope that is worth holding on to!
See You Later!
Written Jul 25, 2012 12:05pm by Jerri Martin
Our last update left you with Baby Quin snuggled peacfully in my arms. This was a very special time for me (Dustin) to spend with my Little Princess. As the day progressed, it became clear to us that the final decision had to be made. Quin had fought as long as she could and it was time for her to go home. Today at 5:00 pm with Baby Quin nestled in her mothers arms, we made the decision to remove the respirator. This was the last and final machine to be removed. Now, Baby Quin is home with Jesus along with her big brother, Todd.
Never in a million years did I think we would have to make this decision again. I have more question than answers and even a little anger. However, the same God that lets things happen I don't understand or agree with, is the same God that gives me an overwhelming peace I can't put into words. With this peace, I praise God for the five short days we had with Baby Quin. She has been a blessing to me and my family and I know God has bigger plans.
Thank you all for praying and supporting us through this very difficult time. As Kylei put it, "I am not saying goodbye, more like see you later!"
The Events
Written Jul 25, 2012 11:45pm by Dustin Martin
This morning, as I cooked breakfast for my girls, I (Dustin) asked myself, "How did we go from a regular Thursday afternoon appointment to planning a funeral in less than a week?" I began to review the events in my head:
Thursday at noon - a scheduled check up said it was time to have baby (normal)
Thursday at 1:00 pm- induced at Chambersburg Hospital (normal)
Thursday at 4:47 pm - Quin born (normal). However, not breathing well on her own, only whimpers not cries, taken to the nursery for further assistance (not bad, just precautionary)
Thursday at 6:00 - Doctors said we are going to York because they have a nicu to help Quin, she is breathing too poorly. weather is too bad to fly, going by ambulance
At this point we are thinking a day or two stay at York, until she gains her strength
Friday 1:30 am at York - doctors notice lactate acids high in her blood, probably from the stress from asphyxia (brief period of time without oxygen at birth), protocol - cool baby for 72 hours, monitor for seizures. This seems to be a mild case. (still not bad, just precautionary)
At this point we are thinking maybe a week at York then home.
Friday 9:30 am at York - Quin is breathing well on her own and having no seizures (this is a good thing). One problem, lactate acid continues to increase and she has had no stress (this is a bad thing). Test showed lactate acid good at birth and increasing since, possible metabolic issue not asphyxia. Going to CHOP to see specialist, weather is too bad to fly again, going by ambulance
Friday at 2:30 pm - transport team arrives, lactate acid is decreasing (this is a good thing), probably a mild metabolic issue, diet change type thing.
At this point we are thinking a couple days at CHOP to get the diets figured out and back home.
Friday at 9:00 pm - settled into CHOP, she is breathing on her own
Saturday at 9:30 am - back on ventilator, lactate acid were increasing throughout the night as well as other gasses in her blood moving the wrong direction. (this is a bad thing) Met with metabolic specialist team. If things continue in this direction possible Mitochondrial disorder (non treatable metabolic disorder)(not good at all), time will tell
At this point we are told it could be weeks. We are praying for a complete turnaround.
Sunday at 11:00 am - lactate acids continued to climb to extreme highs, other gasses continually moving the wrong direction, breathing is worse, heart is weak. Diagnosis confirmed, Mitochondrial disorder. A fatal disorder that could take days to weeks. No medicine can help.
At this point we had the girls and family visit knowing we were not going to bring her home. The rest of the story is well recorded in previous posts.
We can't help to think there might be some connection between all this and Todd. But we were ensured they are two completely different very rare issues that just happened to the same family. The only answer the doctors could give us was "it just isn't fair".
So, here we are planning a funeral less than a week after a normal Thursday appointment. Fair? No! But, my God never promised fair.
Psalms 118:28&29
You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; His love endures forever.
Memorial Service
Written Jul 26, 2012 7:16pm by Jerri Martin
Memorial Service for:
Quintin Riley Martin
Saturday July 28, 2012
11:00am
at Mercersburg Mennonite Church
10060 Buchanan Trail West, Mercersburg, PA
Burial service will be immediately following, in the church's cemetary.
There will be a time of visitation & refreshments following the grave-side service. All are welcome to attend.
See complete obituary:
http://www.bowersoxfuneralhomes.com/_mgxroot/page_10780.php?id=1094957
Thank You!
Written Jul 30, 2012 12:59pm by Jerri Martin
I'm not sure how two little words can say so much. It just doesn't seem to be enough, no matter how I put it. On behalf of Dustin and the girls, I say THANK YOU!! Thank you for praying endlessly over the last two weeks, sending encouraging words our way, or saying nothing at all and just listening.
As I type what will possibly be one of our last journal entries, I am sitting on our patio, listening to the chickens & watching the cows lay lazily in the pasture. I can't help but think of all the work that went on while we were away. So, THANK YOU to those of you who kept our 'funny farm' going in our absence!
Our massive garden has been partially harvested and cleaned up, yard mowed and flower beds maintained. As I sit here, enjoying the scenery, I am reminded of how much detail went in to these beautiful creations. Everything was created with purpose and reason, not by mistake or haphazardly thrown together. I can't help but sit in awe of our Heavenly Father, Creator, and Master Designer. He has a plan for all of this, a plan that is so much bigger than I will ever be able to comprehend. Our son Todd and our precious Quin are both part of His perfect plan, created perfect in His image. We were blessed to have 24 days with Todd, and 5 with Quin. And though, right now, none of this makes sense, one day it will. I trust in His plan and hold tight to knowing that I will see them again.
I know for certain that my family is embarking on a journey of healing and growth. By no means, has this been easy, and I would by lying if I said I didn't feel weak, or even angry and disappointed at times. I know the next several days and weeks, possibly months will be very difficult and trying. But, in the midst of the pain and confusion, I rejoice in knowing that my beautiful babies are sitting at the feet of Jesus!!
Written Jul 21, 2012 10:12pm by Jerri Martin
Quintin Riley Martin was born at 4:47pm on Thursday July 19th, 2012 at the Chambersburg Hospital. She arrived a bit early, weighing in at 5 pounds 13.7 ounces, and measuring 18 inches long.
Quintin was not due to arrive until closer August 1st. However, at a routine weekly appointment, the Doctor noticed a few things that suggested that Quintin be born early...so we were off to the Hospital.
Name and Date!
Written Jul 21, 2012 10:18pm by Jerri Martin
Baby's official full name is Quintin Riley Martin...but you can call her Quin, for short.
It took a LONG time for us to decide on a name. No matter what, no name was right for our little princess. A few weeks ago (early July) Dustin suggested the name Quin or Quintin. We agreed right away, that would be her name. We didn't know any history or meaning of the name, nor did we pick out a middle name to go with it. A few days later, out of curiousity, I looked up the name to find the origin and meaning. Here's what I learned:
Quintin - (Latin) meaning "fifth"
I know to most of you that really doesn't hold any significance, however, to our little family it does.
Quintin is baby girl #4 in the Martin family...but, she is our "Fifth Born" child!
As for her middle name, Riley, we need to thank my niece Peyton for the suggestion!
Quintin's birthday is special also. She shares the date with her maternal Great-Grandmother Vada Helfrick. So, in honor and memory of Grandma Vada Statler Helfrick...HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!
Day 3
Written Jul 22, 2012 3:42pm by Jerri Martin
Day 3: Quintin's Diagnosis
It is very painful and difficult for me to type this entry. So many thoughts are running through my mind right now, and old wounds are being reopened.
I have typed these words several times now, and it isn't getting easier to see them written out on the screen.
We spoke to the doctors yesterday and again this morning and unfortunately the diagnosis is still the same. There are several issues we are dealing with concerning Quintin's condition. We are still very much trying to process the information we have been given. With out going in to too much detail, and put it simply, Quintin has been diagnosed with a Mytochondrial Disorder, which may or may not be genetic.
As we learn more details about the condition, we will add some more information...
Unfortunately, right now, there is not a lot of detail to go along with the diagnosis. Just know...right now, more than ever, we are praying for a miracle! We have complete belief and faith in God's healing touch in her little life. We know that beyond a shadow of a doubt that He has BIG plans for her.
This verse was shared with me on Quintin's birthday, and I wanted to pass it on...
Habakkuk 1:5
I am working a work in your lives which you will not believe, though it be told you.
Day 4
Written Jul 23, 2012 11:49am by Jerri Martin
Monday July 23rd
Yesterday, we had a nice visit with family. My sister brought Paisley along too...what a nice surprise. She brings so much joy, I can't even begin to describe. Dustin ended up going home with them, to see the older girls and bring them back today. As I type, I am sitting in Quin's room and Dustin is starting his 3 hour drive back to Philly.
The Doctors made their rounds earlier this morning and didn't have anything new to report, at this point. We will be meeting with the Metabolic Team and the Neonatologist this afternoon to get a complete report.
I did get the chance to meet with the Neurologist this morning, and they did take Quin off the anti-siezure meds. There was some thought that she was having siezures earlier in the weekend. However, after reviewing her EEG and video EEG, the doctor was able to confirm that she was NOT having siezures. While this news doesn't really change any the outcome of Quin's condition, it is one less thing we are worrying about. So, in my mind..that's a good thing!!
Over the course of the night, Quin was also weened off the dopamine they were giving her to help with her blood pressure. Her blood pressure was able to regulate on it's own...
Again, this isn't a huge accomplishment in the big scheme of things, however, it is another thing I can check off the list to worry about. Plus, I think one less med going through her little body is a good thing!!
We are continuing to spend as much time with Quin, as possible, cherishing every moment we have. I can't understand God's plan, nor do I really want to. But, I am holding out for something BIG.
Thank you for praying with us and for us...there are no words to describe the experience we are going through, nor are there words right enough to express our gratitude for all your support!!
Power in weakness!
Written Jul 23, 2012 11:23pm by Dustin Martin
As day four comes to a close, my heart grows heavy as I (Dustin) watch my little princess slowly fade. My faith is tried, and my mind and body are weak. Why my little princess too?! I asked God to remove this torn. I was reminded of 2Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." I know my God it's bigger! I know my God is stronger! I know my God is higher than any other!
"Thank you God for my little princess. May your power be perfect in my weakness, Amen"
Day 5: Making memories
Written Jul 24, 2012 12:31pm by Jerri Martin
Update: Last night, Dustin & I met with Quin's medical team. This team consisted of her primary nurse, Metabolic Specialist, and Neonatologist. We were given a very tough decision, one we never dreamt we would have to make again, after losing Baby Todd. To put it simply, the meds that Quin was receiving to fight the acids in her blood were no longer working. Basically they were maxed out! Our choice was to continue treatment, which would do nothing but cause her body to swell and cause her more discomfort. OR, stop treatments and just allow her body to do it's thing and relieve some of her discomfort while we wait. We, VERY painfully decided to stop the treatments and just enjoy every moment we have, with our little angel. She looks so peaceful and calm right now, it's so hard to believe that she is so incredibly sick.
I had a chance to hold her and snuggle with her this morning, I was in complete peace as she snuggled in my arms. Dustin is holding her right now. As I watch them, I can't even begin to describe the love he is pouring out on her right now.
And, to think, that this love we are feeling for our Baby Quin, doesn't even compare to the love of our Heavenly Father.
I wouldn't be honest if I didn't admit feelings of defeat, and pain...I think that is to be expected. But, above that defeat, I feel an overwhelming peace. It is a peace that provides comfort and a hope that only our Heavenly Father can give.
A hope that is worth holding on to!
See You Later!
Written Jul 25, 2012 12:05pm by Jerri Martin
Our last update left you with Baby Quin snuggled peacfully in my arms. This was a very special time for me (Dustin) to spend with my Little Princess. As the day progressed, it became clear to us that the final decision had to be made. Quin had fought as long as she could and it was time for her to go home. Today at 5:00 pm with Baby Quin nestled in her mothers arms, we made the decision to remove the respirator. This was the last and final machine to be removed. Now, Baby Quin is home with Jesus along with her big brother, Todd.
Never in a million years did I think we would have to make this decision again. I have more question than answers and even a little anger. However, the same God that lets things happen I don't understand or agree with, is the same God that gives me an overwhelming peace I can't put into words. With this peace, I praise God for the five short days we had with Baby Quin. She has been a blessing to me and my family and I know God has bigger plans.
Thank you all for praying and supporting us through this very difficult time. As Kylei put it, "I am not saying goodbye, more like see you later!"
The Events
Written Jul 25, 2012 11:45pm by Dustin Martin
This morning, as I cooked breakfast for my girls, I (Dustin) asked myself, "How did we go from a regular Thursday afternoon appointment to planning a funeral in less than a week?" I began to review the events in my head:
Thursday at noon - a scheduled check up said it was time to have baby (normal)
Thursday at 1:00 pm- induced at Chambersburg Hospital (normal)
Thursday at 4:47 pm - Quin born (normal). However, not breathing well on her own, only whimpers not cries, taken to the nursery for further assistance (not bad, just precautionary)
Thursday at 6:00 - Doctors said we are going to York because they have a nicu to help Quin, she is breathing too poorly. weather is too bad to fly, going by ambulance
At this point we are thinking a day or two stay at York, until she gains her strength
Friday 1:30 am at York - doctors notice lactate acids high in her blood, probably from the stress from asphyxia (brief period of time without oxygen at birth), protocol - cool baby for 72 hours, monitor for seizures. This seems to be a mild case. (still not bad, just precautionary)
At this point we are thinking maybe a week at York then home.
Friday 9:30 am at York - Quin is breathing well on her own and having no seizures (this is a good thing). One problem, lactate acid continues to increase and she has had no stress (this is a bad thing). Test showed lactate acid good at birth and increasing since, possible metabolic issue not asphyxia. Going to CHOP to see specialist, weather is too bad to fly again, going by ambulance
Friday at 2:30 pm - transport team arrives, lactate acid is decreasing (this is a good thing), probably a mild metabolic issue, diet change type thing.
At this point we are thinking a couple days at CHOP to get the diets figured out and back home.
Friday at 9:00 pm - settled into CHOP, she is breathing on her own
Saturday at 9:30 am - back on ventilator, lactate acid were increasing throughout the night as well as other gasses in her blood moving the wrong direction. (this is a bad thing) Met with metabolic specialist team. If things continue in this direction possible Mitochondrial disorder (non treatable metabolic disorder)(not good at all), time will tell
At this point we are told it could be weeks. We are praying for a complete turnaround.
Sunday at 11:00 am - lactate acids continued to climb to extreme highs, other gasses continually moving the wrong direction, breathing is worse, heart is weak. Diagnosis confirmed, Mitochondrial disorder. A fatal disorder that could take days to weeks. No medicine can help.
At this point we had the girls and family visit knowing we were not going to bring her home. The rest of the story is well recorded in previous posts.
We can't help to think there might be some connection between all this and Todd. But we were ensured they are two completely different very rare issues that just happened to the same family. The only answer the doctors could give us was "it just isn't fair".
So, here we are planning a funeral less than a week after a normal Thursday appointment. Fair? No! But, my God never promised fair.
Psalms 118:28&29
You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; His love endures forever.
Memorial Service
Written Jul 26, 2012 7:16pm by Jerri Martin
Memorial Service for:
Quintin Riley Martin
Saturday July 28, 2012
11:00am
at Mercersburg Mennonite Church
10060 Buchanan Trail West, Mercersburg, PA
Burial service will be immediately following, in the church's cemetary.
There will be a time of visitation & refreshments following the grave-side service. All are welcome to attend.
See complete obituary:
http://www.bowersoxfuneralhomes.com/_mgxroot/page_10780.php?id=1094957
Thank You!
Written Jul 30, 2012 12:59pm by Jerri Martin
I'm not sure how two little words can say so much. It just doesn't seem to be enough, no matter how I put it. On behalf of Dustin and the girls, I say THANK YOU!! Thank you for praying endlessly over the last two weeks, sending encouraging words our way, or saying nothing at all and just listening.
As I type what will possibly be one of our last journal entries, I am sitting on our patio, listening to the chickens & watching the cows lay lazily in the pasture. I can't help but think of all the work that went on while we were away. So, THANK YOU to those of you who kept our 'funny farm' going in our absence!
Our massive garden has been partially harvested and cleaned up, yard mowed and flower beds maintained. As I sit here, enjoying the scenery, I am reminded of how much detail went in to these beautiful creations. Everything was created with purpose and reason, not by mistake or haphazardly thrown together. I can't help but sit in awe of our Heavenly Father, Creator, and Master Designer. He has a plan for all of this, a plan that is so much bigger than I will ever be able to comprehend. Our son Todd and our precious Quin are both part of His perfect plan, created perfect in His image. We were blessed to have 24 days with Todd, and 5 with Quin. And though, right now, none of this makes sense, one day it will. I trust in His plan and hold tight to knowing that I will see them again.
I know for certain that my family is embarking on a journey of healing and growth. By no means, has this been easy, and I would by lying if I said I didn't feel weak, or even angry and disappointed at times. I know the next several days and weeks, possibly months will be very difficult and trying. But, in the midst of the pain and confusion, I rejoice in knowing that my beautiful babies are sitting at the feet of Jesus!!