Have you ever seen a micro-preemie in action? I took this short 30-second video of Charlie yesterday and am happy to introduce him to the world. You can see what a ham he is, struggling to open his eyes even though he was on the last of his Fentanyl drip. He’s still intubated of course, so he can’t make any noise, but you can hear some of the NICU nurses in the background. And so, here is Charlie Miller making his motion picture debut. Woo-hoo!!
If it weren’t against the
rules, I’d dress him in tiny costumes and have him accompany me on some of my
favorite numbers. This morning I sang the entire scores to “Oliver,” “The Sound
of Music,” and “The Music Man.” I’m surprised the other parents aren’t
complaining yet!
The great news today was that Charlie had some food for the first time. He’s only had IVs until now and so has never used his digestive tract. They gave him some pre-digested formula directly into his stomach and he seemed to tolerate it quite well. I know the roller coaster hasn’t come back to the station and there will be many more challenges to come but these little milestones are still thrilling.
But back to Charlie’s future career in musical theatre: I think he will make a great Winthrop Paroo in “The Music Man.” He even looks a bit like Ronny Howard. I just hope he can sing better:
Awwww....he's so cute! Danny! He looks just like you with his red hair and pinky skin! Of course he'll be a good singer. How could he not? Thanks for the video!
Posted by: Ellen Bloom | May 22, 2009 at 07:33 PM
I'm so glad he's doing well! My thoughts are with all of you.
Posted by: mem | May 22, 2009 at 08:16 PM
What a handsome boy! Can't wait to see him in the role...
Posted by: Wanda | May 22, 2009 at 11:33 PM
Terrific update. I'll be around at CSMC this week (T/Th/Fri)and would be happy to stop by.
Posted by: Leightongirl | May 23, 2009 at 01:35 PM
What a little ham! I wonder who he takes after??? I loved his debut and the next show you serenade him with, make it "Chorus Line". I know Charlie will love it. Keep singing, Danny.
Love,
Marilyn
Posted by: Marilyn Molnar | May 23, 2009 at 03:01 PM
He looks fantastic! Such a change since my viewing of him all of 2 weeks ago. Keep 'em coming! We love and miss you all!
Posted by: Kathryn L. | May 23, 2009 at 04:38 PM
My mom and I just watched the video. We were both amazed by his improvement. Thinking of all of you and wishing for the best.
Posted by: Pam G | May 24, 2009 at 04:49 AM
Unfortuneatly I cannot seee videos--If there is a LINK at YouTube...PLEASE send it to me, Danny...(Grrr--STILL no one can figure out my "video" Problem....)
I am so happy to hear of little Charlie's progress....And I LOVE that you are singing ALL those fabulous Musicals to him...!
Posted by: OldOldLady Of The Hills | May 24, 2009 at 04:05 PM
Danny, Charlie is absolutely adorable and looks like he is quite the fighter. So happy to hear that things are improving. Thanks for the update.
Take care,
Arlene
Posted by: Arlene | May 24, 2009 at 04:59 PM
Beautiful! Keeping Charlie in our prayers~
Posted by: RD | May 24, 2009 at 08:39 PM
He is looking quite robust, I must say. And he DOES look like you!
Posted by: Shari | May 25, 2009 at 07:09 AM
John says he looks like Shari!
Posted by: Esther | May 25, 2009 at 11:49 AM
I think he winked at me. I winked back.
xoxo
Posted by: Elaine Soloway | May 25, 2009 at 12:39 PM
"Is there NO PLACE to escape the paparazzi?"
Indeed he does look ready for his close up!
I am just now catching up on my "online life" & was saddened to learn of the early birth of your sons & Oliver's death. Strange to be giving congratulations & condolances in the same breath, but I continue to pray for your family - that you can all bear the grief of loss & of worry, and celebrate the moments as they happen, with unrestrained joy.
As I read your blogs in sequence, it's heartening to read of Charlie's progress, your increasing resolve, Leah's spontaneous dancing & even Kendall's insistance on sharing her recent traumas & hospitalization. It shows a family of great strength and love, collectively & individually. I'm another who thanks you all for sharing these most intimate moments of your lives. I mourn your loss and celebrate the milestones with your family. Thank you for allowing us in.
Best wishes & many prayers,
Pegs. : )
Posted by: Peggy Larson (aka Pegs) | May 25, 2009 at 04:59 PM
Awwww. What a handsome guy. He is bound for fame and glory.
Posted by: churlita | May 25, 2009 at 05:43 PM
Danny,
I agree with Marilyn. Charlie is one singular sensation.
Love,
Julie
Posted by: Julie R. | May 25, 2009 at 07:26 PM
Go Charlie. We are pulling for you!
Julie
Posted by: Julie Voss | May 26, 2009 at 12:42 PM
Danny,
I'm so happy Charlie is getting stronger...you're being there and singing Music Man and Sound of Music is what is helping big time. Medical ingenuity is a big part...but so are your voices and your love he's hearing constantly...I know it'is making the difference.I felt that way when Wesley was there....comfort for Charlie will come from you being there and his hearing you a lot.
2 lbs!! He's on the up and up....He's pulled through surgery, which I know when Wesley was 1 lb 10 oz, was agonizing. Each day Charlie will get stronger. He will!!
I'm praying for you and thinking of you every day.
love,
Cheryl and Wesley (born 2 lbs. 7 oz, but who is now 40 lbs and 4 years old)
Posted by: cheryl miller | May 27, 2009 at 07:48 AM
He is BEAUTIFUL!
Posted by: Sally Northrop | May 27, 2009 at 04:54 PM