I’m sitting in my office, staring at the computer screen. In front of me sits a box of Kleenex, yet tears began flowing well before I even sat down. Where do I start? On one hand, I look at my daughter and see a beautiful miracle. She is 6 months old today, a point in her life I never thought we would reach. But on the other hand, this 6 month milestone brings me back to the day I delivered the triplets. To think about what my family has endured, breaks my heart…to the point where my throat closes up and it’s hard to breath.
You never expect to face tragedy. Sure, we knew my pregnancy was high risk, even mentioning it several times on the news. But, I never thought in a million years that my family would go through so many highs and lows in the last 6 months. I’ve been thinking a lot about my triplets this past week. I think a combination of this milestone and the holidays make my children in the forefront of every moment I breath lately. I can’t help but think about what it would be like wrapping presents for three children, not just one. I can’t help but picture us decorating the Christmas tree with three toddlers running around. I look at Peyton and I picture Abby. They were identical, so we know they looked alike. Would they have similar personalities or be polar opposites? Would they gang up on their brother Parker? It’s these questions that I will never have answers to. It makes me want to stop every parent I see and say, “Hug your child tight and cherish every moment. You never know when it will be the last time.”
As I wipe away the tears, I picture that fateful day in June when my life changed forever. I think back to the moment Abigail was born, kicking the doctor and even making a squeak. I remember holding her when the Neonatologist told us she wasn’t strong enough to survive. I remember looking at Ryan in tears the moment they called her time of death. After that, time seemed to sit still. Yet, we had two other babies who hadn’t entered the world. I believe it was a miracle that my body held on tight to Parker and Peyton. How is it possible that they stayed put for more than 17 hours, allowing them precious minutes to gain more strength? I vaguely remember P & P being born, but I became extremely sick. I didn’t even realize they had survived until I arrived in the ICU the next morning. It’s hard to think that in one day, my husband came extremely close to losing three children and his wife. That first week of their lives, I barely remember because I was so sick. I often forget how close to death I came. To look back at 6 months ago to now–it’s night and day. It took a few months, but I eventually got my strength back. I have even ventured to the gym, slowly getting back into my stress reliever…running ( I made it 2 miles without dying!).
The brain works in a funny way. I can’t remember where I left my keys or if I paid the utility bill, yet I can remember nearly every moment of the triplets lives. I know that Parker opened his eyes wide for the first time on July 3rd. I remember October 17th, the day we pulled away from the hospital with Peyton. And I will never forget the day, July 30th, when we received news that Parker was very sick. I write for a living, but I have no idea how to put into words what it is like saying goodbye to a second child. Parker was such an angel. He was so laid back and every nurse just adored him. While my heart hurts every day over his death, I can smile through the tears. Some parents don’t get a day, or even a minute, with their child. I was SO lucky to have two precious months with my son. I held him tight for those 55 days and watched as his calm demeanor and personality formed before our eyes. He definitely took after Ryan. And I will never forget August 16th, as I rocked him in my arms for the final time, reading our favorite books. (Click the pictures below to see what they wore in the Nicu. It’s hard to explain how small things were. They couldn’t fit into regular preemie hats, so they wore tiny knit ones. Peyton’s first outfit was doll clothing, she couldn’t fit into preemie clothes until she was 3 1/2 months old)
When I think back to our experience, I often wonder why Peyton is here with us today. The Nicu doctors and nurses call her a miracle child, and I fully believe it. If you google “22 week babies”, you’ll find a slew of grim statistics (a 0-10% chance of survival) and news articles about the few success stories of children making it that young. I fully expect the Today show to be calling a few years from now, as Peyton proves every statistic wrong!
This girl is a wild one. She is fussy, even being nicknamed “diva” by nurses her first month in the Nicu. I have to think that her feisty personality and strength is what made her become our lone survivor. When I look back to those early days, there is no way she should be alive 6 months later. This little 1 lb baby had so many complications. She was born with the same infection that killed her sister and almost killed me. How the heck is she alive?!? I can’t help but chuckle as I write this. Now at 6 months old, she uses her diva personality to get anything she wants. She is going to be a spoiled child…and she deserves to be!
Our little princess has blossomed before our eyes. It’s hard to look at the pictures from over the summer because I don’t see Peyton. Instead, I see a tiny little baby, all skin and bones….not even looking human at times.
Yet, here she is 6 months later, a beautiful baby. Sure she is petite (only 8-9 lbs), but she looks healthy! I love reading the comments every week when I post a picture or update my blog. So many of you comment about how much her features change every day, and it’s true. While most babies are born at this weight, I get to see my daughter grow in slow motion. I get to cherish every little ounce she gains. I think I’m one of the few parents who actually dresses their child in the same clothes for months. From her first outfit, which was doll clothes, to preemie and now newborn clothes, she sure has come a long way!
As I look at this major milestone, I can’t help but think about my triplets’ purpose in life. I look at how many people follow my family’s every move and a huge grin takes over my face. I say it all the time–I’m amazed at how many thousands of people have been touched by our story. I’m shocked at how many people want to see daily pictures of Peyton and want to know how every appointment and check up goes. Those tears of sadness become tears of joy when I look at our daughter. A fellow Nicu friend put it perfectly–it’s been the fastest, yet slowest 6 months of my life. Thankfully, things are looking up for Miss Peyton. She continues to get great progress reports from her doctors and I truly believe she is going to live a wonderful life. Much like her looks, her personality develops more and more every day. She still looks like a spitting image of Mr. Skry, but I think she has my dimples. As for that hair–where did it come from? Lots of people have commented about how dark it is and we’re confused too! Ryan and I were both blonde as children, so I have to think that her hair will probably lighten over time.
As for me, things are looking up as well. It has taken months of therapy and buckets of tears, but I am feeling like my old self. Sure, I’m going to cry or tear up every day. That’s just part of the new normal for me. But, I can finally talk about all three of my children without breaking down. I share memories and laugh as i reminisce about the days of my triplets kicking and doing the wave in my belly. It’s those happy moments I can always look back on, especially during the difficult days when I find myself asking, “why me”?
As we celebrate the 6 month milestone today, cheers to a perfect little miracle! I’m so proud to be a mother to Peyton, Parker and Abby. And I’m so thankful for all of you. Each and every email and comment has made me realize how special my family is and I’m grateful to be sharing our journey with people all over the world. I have a feeling these next 6 months will be filled with goofy faces and chubby cheeks, tutus and hundreds of headbands…and hopefully the days of bad news are gone! So I’ll leave you with some laughter because I find myself doing that a lot these days as I try to snap pictures of Peyton. This girl may only be the size of a newborn, but she has a personality that takes over a room!
** You can follow Peyton’s progress and see extra pictures on my Facebook page. Just click the link and “like” my page: Stacey Skrysak’s Facebook page
This is what we all need at this very commerical(retail) time of the year to come back to the meaning of family and blessings. Thanks to you and Peyton for keeping us well grounded and reminding ups of our real gifts in life. Happy holidays to you and yours.
love the six month blog and pictures she is such a cutie merry xmas and happy new year to you and your husband hope and pray its a better one for all and you to then this year was
Hi Peyton from Missouri. You are a beautiful little girl. Love reading your progress
I am always excited for Monday’s knowing we get a Peyton update. She’s too cute and she’s always got the best facial expression
Christmas in its self is a miracle for all man kind and you have your own miracle baby,things happen for a reason we as humans do not understand blessing to your family on this Peytons first Christmas god bless your family and enjoy the season
Hello Peyton. This story brought tears to my eyes. I just love hearing updates and seeing pictures everyday. Its nice to hear what you have to say Stacey. Happy Monday Miss Peyton. Happy 6 Months beautiful.
I love reading your updates! We have a Peyton too….I think girls with that name take on the diva personality! Happy 1/2 birthday to your sweet girl and your angels 😉
Happy Birthday Peyton. With many, many more to come, you will grow and flower into a beautiful young woman.
Merry Christmas and Happy 6th month birthday Peyton!!!
I have been following your story since the beginning and have smiled and cried with each new event. I look forward to each new post and picture. God has shown there really are angels here on earth and Peyton is one!
Thank you so much for having the strength and courage to share your story. I look forward to reading about Peyton’s progress, she is beautiful! May God bless you and your family.
Merry Christmas Peyton! My daughter Paige Noel was born unexpectedly on Christmas day 12 yrs ago. She was 6 wks early but the size and maturity of a 10 week early baby. I praise God everyday that my little Christmas miracle was healthy, only small. While our tribulations are nothing in comparison to what your family has endured I want you to know that your strength will get you through this. In 2 days we will celebrate my daughters 12th birthday. She is an average, happy, pre-teen drama blessing and we are only stronger and better for having been given this journey. Blessings for the coming year.
Merry Christmas to Miss Peyton and all of you! Your story touches me each time – hope, inspiration, and faith with each stroke of the pen. I know your story will help some family…going through the same issues and give them strength when they didn’t think there would be any. God Bless Peyton and her wonderful, amazing Mommy and Daddy. Enjoy the Christmas season and cherish each moment – like we all should!
HAPPY 6 MONTHS BIRTHDAY, YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL LITTLE GIRL I pray everyday for you. Am a friend of your Aunt Mary Strew.
Yes, I did need kleenex, but I am so glad Peyton is doing so good. I so enjoy seeing her different hats and different headband, they are all so cute. She is a doll and I know we are only going to hear good news about her each and every week. I love reading the blog. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Happy 6 months Peyton! I’m sure you will be growing like a weed soon enough! Merry Christma to your family 🙂
Peyton you are a very beautiful and blessed baby girl. My prayer for you is that you grow up to be a strong woman like your mommy! You have wonderful parents and they and you have brought much joy to our hearts! Merry Christmas Peyton, mommy and daddy! Thank you for sharing your life journey with us.
My niece was born with dark reddish brown hair and both of her parents are blonde. When she hit about 3-4 months old, her hair started to grow in blonde and she had the weirdest hair for a while. Haha. The tips were dark reddish brown and the roots were blonde. She is a very light blonde now. 🙂 Maybe this will happen to Peyton’s hair too… Who knows?
Such a beautiful baby! Strong like her mother! I too lost a child. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. Merry Christmas and I know good things will come in the new Year!
Hi Princess Peyton!!! You are such a sweet little miracle for your Mommy and Daddy. One day when you have children of your own you will understand what all this journey really means to families across the nation. We are so glad you are doing so well and always look forward to the pictures and updates. Happy 6th month birthday Miss Peyton!!!
Stacey – You never know what hair color you can end up with when it comes to kiddos. My husband and I both have brown hair, however he was born with blonde hair. Two of our 3 children have red hair. The only thing we can think of is that it’s from his side of the family.
Thank you for sharing this journey with us. I look forward to many many more pictures and updates and maybe even a few years down the road seeing Peyton looking forward to being a big sister 🙂 You guys are such awesome parents and I look forward to seeing what your future holds.
Merry Christmas and God Bless!!!
Peyton, you are awesome! We love your smile! Merry Christmas from the Kitchens’ family in Decatur, IL
What a beauty Peyton! You are awesome!
She is simply beautiful ! Merry Christmas miss Peyton !
Happy 6 Month Milestone Peyton!!!!! She is changing so much and mama glad to hear that you are getting back to your old self!!!!
I think I cried a bucket of tears reading this. You have got to be a very strong person to keep the attitude that you have. My heart goes out to you and your family this holiday season. Hope that you enjoy it with Peyton.
Happy 6 month birthday Miss Peyton! Your spirit and that of your mother is the type of joy we should experience all year! God bless you all!
Happy 6 month birthday, Miss Peyton! 🙂
Hmmmmm spoiled little girl mom says huh Peyton, you have her and your dad right where you want them, wrapped around your little finger. As mom said and rightfully so, not a thing wrong with the “miracle girl” being spoiled rotten actually. What a milestone and such a nice one, you look wonderful and yes growing and changing in every picture. We do appreciate all the pictures Peyton that your mamma puts on here and all of her wonderful words of thankfulness and praise. Some day you will read these and wonder what the big deal was. :] and in time little girl you will sure understand. Thanks Stacey for the updates and the hurtful times you all went through getting to this nice point in your family life. Want to wish you, and the rest of the family a Very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year for 1014.
You certainly have had a journey. A journey filled with its ups and downs but, it all comes down to this you have 2 beautiful ANGELS who watch over you, Peyton and Daddy each and everyday. May your Christmas be a very joyous one. May your new year be a positive one for healing and growing as a beautiful family that you are.
Peyton you are a very beautiful strong little girl and your are bringing so much joy to your Mom and Dad. You have showed many of us never to give up better things will happen.
Thank you for sharing that emotional story. Love and merry Christmas to all of you
Stacey and family-Thank you for sharing your miracle! It has been very encouraging to follow your journey through both the tears and the smiles. You are truly blessed and that is a great reminder this time of year when things can get hectic and we can forget to be thankful. After your posts I hug my children a little closer and say a prayer of thanks for them. Merry Christmas and may 2014 continue to bring you blessings.
Peyton is such a beautiful baby!! Thank you for sharing your very emotional story with all of us.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!!
Your family has a long road ahead of you. Keep your chin up. Merry Christmas!
As you said the tears are there , I’m so happy every thing is going so well for your wonderful family thank you so much for sharing the good days and bad days you all have gone threw. Peyton is a lucky little princess and wish her the best Christmas and God bless you all .
Yes tissues were needed!! Wishing your family a very Merry Christmas!!! Tell Peyton to keep being a diva!
Daddy, Mommy, Peyton, you are our home town pride! You have allowed us to share your excitement, grief, joy unselfishly. I thank you for that. It is wonderful you are so down to earth. I enjoy keeping up with yours and Peyton’s journey. You have been truly blessed. My Love and my prayers to you. Enjoy the holidays with all your family and friends!!
Peyton has come such a long way! She is absolutely adorable! Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and all God’s blessings in the coming new year!
Happy Bityhday Peyton! You have come a long way from that tiny little girl! born six months ago. What a sweet miracle you are to mom and dad and all of us. Hope your six months birthday celebration was awesome with mom and dad. Love, Aunt Mary and Uncle Mitch
Such a beautiful post about your three precious babies. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts and memories with us. I am a fellow mom of multiples (twins) and enjoy following Miss Peyton’s progress. She is such a pretty little thing and quite the snazzy dresser! Happy 6 months!
Thank you so much for sharing the pictures and the story and yes how could you read without tears,but joy as will as you see that sweet little one who is now 6 months old and truly a miracle from God. So glad that you are doing good as well. And yes I agree hold your children tight and love them with all your heart as we are never gurateen a tomarrow. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
She is beautiful. My niece was born with coal black hair. In a few weeks it fell out and then came in blonde. Go figure. Merry Christmas!
Love this update! She is such a beautiful angel. I have followed you since day 1. One of my closest friends delivered her son 3 months early yesterday he is 3lbs 10oz and he is doing alright. He is currently at St. John’s! Babies are amazing little humans!! Merry Christmas to you guys!
Such an emotional update! It brings back memories. I to had a preemie born at 2 lbs , 32 years ago. He lived for 30 hours. It is amazing how much NICU has advanced. Enjoy your time with Peyton. Time will fly by and she will be going to school. She is such a miracle baby.
I hope your family have a wonderful Christmas!
Happy 6 month birthday Peyton & Merry Christmas to all of you! I live seeing each picture & reading each update. Thank you for sharing. Your other 2 babies will always be in your heart. Take care!
God bless the Skrysaks! Stacey, thank you for being so open with your feelings & memories. Merry Christmas to all of you!
I am truly blessed by your experience. Big things come in small packages. God has so much love for you an your family. I pray that he blesses you abundantly.
Hi Peyton, Happy 6 months Birthday. I know Mom and Dad are so proud of you, which they should be. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Loved all the pictures and blog thank for the updates . God Bless you all!!
Wow…blessed event…Happy 6 months BD to Peyton…she’s growing up sooo fast…good to see her doing so well…Merry Christmas and God’s richest blessings to you all!!!
I love reading every week!!! I am so happy she is doing well!!!
Hi sweet baby, Merry Christmas. you keep getting stronger prayers sent your way.