Thom and Abby received the sad news yesterday that their
little guy has sustained some brain damage in a critical part of the brain that
governs speech, thinking, walking and several other critical components that
operate a fully functioning body. Doctors were only able to give them best and
worst case scenarios and admitted that “only time will tell.”
For clarification between the two MRI’s that Porter had: the
first one at 3 days old was to determine if there were any congenital
abnormalities (deformed, enlarged) that could easily explain the seizures. This
was normal. The second MRI was more detailed and involved contrast so they
could see the overall “health” of the brain. This is where they saw two small
white/gray areas that indicated O2 deprivation possibly due to cord compression
or some other unknown reason.
The doctors were adamant in their explanation to Thom and
Abby that this was an “accident.” There was nothing she did- or didn’t do-to
have something like this happen. Most likely this damage was sustained close to
the birth time. The doctors called AF hospital hoping that they could retrieve
the placenta and cord for examination, but were too late- it had already been
disposed of.
Right now the goal for Porter is to wean him off the Phenobarbital-
which they have already started-and to assess his reflexes and swallowing. Last
evening when I was there, he was much more alert and was moving his arms and
legs and arching his back as if saying, “This bed is really uncomfortable- can
I get up now?”
Who knows what the future holds for Porter? All I know is
that he was born to parents that are righteous and capable. He is also
surrounded with a large family that will do everything possible to support,
sustain and help him achieve his full potential-whatever that may be. Ben
Tullis said it best as we all tried to process this new and surprising development, “Parenting a child like this- with special
needs- is really a calling. And who the Lord calls…he qualifies!"
Love,
Grandma Cind
Love,
Grandma Cind
Thom and Abby can rest assured that the Lord is with them every step of the way.
ReplyDeleteI read the following passages this morning for my devotionals, "Whether we are in times of testing or times of refreshment, to simply be in the Shepherd's care is all we could ever hope for. He will test us, but He will never leave us or forsake us...No matter what our circumstances, God's help is closer than we think. God does not abandon us to the trails he brings in our lives (trials often turn out to be insumountable blessings). Though we may tremble in fear even while the Shepherd carries us, and though we may forget we are in His arms, still he comforts us."
I hope these words can be of comfort at some point in this journey. Porter is indeed a blessed child!
Abby and Thom,
ReplyDeleteI just want you guys to know that we love you and are here for whatever you might need in the future. Bless his little heart, I've been thinking of you so much. In a blessing I heard once that God sends trials so he can manifest Himself in our lives and I believe that is true. I love the comment above. Thanks for keeping everyone informed Cindy, my family has been very concerned. Love you guys,
Michelle Southam
Our hearts ache for the little guy with this sad news but no matter what the future holds, just know that we're all here for you.
ReplyDeleteI know that your hearts are breaking right now for your sweet little Porter. And that is ok. It is not only ok to feel sad, but has to be a part of this whole process. But please also know that with the sadness comes such joy. My sister Aly went through something so similar when her little Marlie was born with DS. And I can honestly say that she is the greatest blessing that our family could have had! We thank God for her every day, and wouldn't change her even if we could. We love you guys!
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