Our First Dr. Visit (by Thom)

Today we went to the pediatrician for the first time. Another missionary in Bamako suggested someone, and we are very grateful for that. Amanda called the doctor on the phone and quickly realized that communicating medical terms in another language is very, very difficult. It turns out the doctor speaks wonderful English! She is a very nice Malian lady who was trained in Canada. She examined the girls and was very understanding of our concern for Hannah. She doesn't look like she's gained much weight, and she hasn't. The doctor prescribed some special formula with vitamins and some medicine. Miriam checked in very well. The doctor had a hard time believing they were twins! For all you numbers-people, Miriam was 50 cm long (19.7 inches) and 2.67 kilograms (almost 6 lbs). Hannah was 46 cm (18.1") and 1.7 kg (3 lbs, 12 oz). It's kind of weird to think of 6 lbs as a big baby, isn't it?
The doctor did say Hannah was strong for such a small baby. Miriam showed very well in the reflex tests. Can you tell I love to brag about my girls?
Despite some good news on Hannah, she still has an uphill climb. It's amazing she's lived through what she has already, but she needs to begin gaining weight. In two weeks Miriam has gained two pounds on her sister. Hannah really needs to start catching up here. Please continue to pray with us for her health, her weight, and our direction with Hannah.