6 Week Old That Has Whooping Cough.

HI S. I too am sorry for what you are going through. Our daughter 8 yr. had measles and then our few weeks old son also got them. The Dr. was amazed because he said that a baby has built in immunity until they are six months old. Well it just shows you no one but God is incharge. I also remember when I was young. I had two sisters and as soon as one got over it the next and the next mom really had her hands full. Good Luck and hang in there.

Hello S.,

The only advice I cane give you is to stay strong, because if moma falls apart, then who will the children lean on. When my son was 2 and my daugther 1, who is now 10 and 9, both had the whooping cough. then my husband end up with it. So, I had three at home with it and I was left to take care of them. I know that God was by my side, because I slept in between both of my kids and my husband slept on the couch and he was the one to get it and not me. To say all of that, only a mother strength can raise a village, that is why God made it so that I stayed healthy. I know it is hard on you and your two year old, but you have to stay focus and realize where you are needed most. I know your son is being well taking care of, so do not drive yourself crazy, because of the distance. Just keep reassuring him (and yourself) that mommie loves him and once the baby is well, then he can have you both at home. I know it is scary, because I felt all alone and to see your baby that way but I kept praying and asked for strength. Keep it going!!!! (sorry if I offended you talking about God)

38 year old wife and mother of 4(4,6,9 10)

Oh my goodness.... I am sorry I don't have any advice I just wanted to say that I am so sorry about your situation and desperately hope your sweet little baby gets better soon! I am sure you miss your toddler terribly. :( The good news is that they really don't have a sense of time and he or she won't remember this when they are older. Best wishes.

When my son was in the hospital I would have a family member or have the nurse to sit with the baby while I took the older one to the movies or park! I know it’s not much but it is something. On times That I could not then I would call to read him a book, I also sent cards or post cards from the gift shop so he has something special every day! Maybe check out a movie, the hospital has some that you can watch and if it’s the same as one that home then you can also watch a movie that way! I know it’s hard but it will be over soon enough!

Hi. I pray for strength for you. I have been through a similar situation and all I can tell you is you will make it through. Your 2 year old will survive and you will soon have the 4 of you together again.
My daughter was 2yrs 3 mos when my second daughter was born 6 weeks premature. To add to the fun, we were 2 hours from home. My older daughter went to bed in a hotel with Mommy there and woke up to grandma watching her. She was then whisked to my parents while my husband and I dealt with everything else going on in our life and while we moved into the Ronald McDonald house.
What I can tell you is I would focus on the baby for several days and then when my older daughter came to visit we tried to focus on her - going to the zoo, parks, playing together. The key is to really take time to focus on her when you can. Your older child understands more than you know. The key is to make your time with your older child all about them. Remember that when you are gone the professionals are taking good care of your baby and they understand trying to divide your time. Even if you can't spend a great deal of time with your oldest, at least try to make it all about them when you are with them.
If you have family and friends around, see if they can try to do special things with your oldest to make this time really special for her. I remember my parents took my oldest to festivals and fairs so her time was very full. Hopefully there is someone in your life who can do something similar for your 2 year old.
If there is anything else I can do to help, please feel free to email me.

I am so sorry for what your going throught right now. It is always so difficult to have a sick child. First of all, you are only human and can only do so much. Kids are pretty resiliant. Both children will forget this time period. You did not mention if you have family/husband/friends that can help. Regardless, I know the hospital has support staff in many different areas that can help you. I would explain to the nurse/pediatrician your situation and ask for their advise. Many parents have gone through this and need help. Good luck

Hi S.,

I'm so sorry your little one is so sick! OF COURSE you are sad, who wouldn't be? You probably aren't sleeping well at the hospital. Plus you could be into baby blues or postpartum depression, but I wouldn't jump to any conclusions about those until you are back home and everything is more or less on an even keel again (as if that ever truly happens with two little ones--lol!)

They probably have a social worker or counselor at the hospital if you wanted to talk about those issues.

Beyond that..

Can someone bring your toddler to the hospital so you could go down to the lobby and see him/her? whoever brought the toddler could sit with the baby while you visit with the toddler. You could go to the cafeteria for a snack or drink, or find a comfy spot in a waiting room to cuddle, read a book, play a game, or just talk. Or go for a walk if the hospital is in an OK neighborhood. Some hospitals even have enclosed garden spaces, that might be an option.

I hope you are eating well, especially if you are breastfeeding your baby. When my now 14 yo was 5 days old, he was life-flighted from our (then) home town of Magnolia AR to AR Children's Hospital in Little Rock. When the staff found out I was breastfeeding him, they put me on the meal plan there so that my and his nutrition would be good. That impressed me. Even if you have to pay for your food yourself, or have someone bring it to you, eat properly! You'll do yourself and everyone else much more good that way! And yes, I really missed my 3.5 yo and was so glad when he was able to visit. We were only there a few days, so it must be really hard for you, being there so long.

You'll be in my prayers!

K. Z.