12.06.2012

unexpected news...

Today we took Pierce for a rapid-series MRI to check on the status of his shunt. Nik went through the MRI with Pierce and said it was so pitiful because it was so loud and Pierce was terrified of the sounds. But we're so proud of our brave boy who laid still with Dadddy while they got the pictures they needed.

We really felt confident that things were going well- no infections, no symptoms to point to a malfunction and his head growth has been tracking normally.

So we were taken back by the unexpected results: 4th ventricle enlargement. This basically means (and we're still processing it all, so I may not get this right) that Pierce's fourth ventricle, the one that sits deep in the brain, is not draining properly and that it has become trapped. 4th ventricle enlargement can affect balance and coordination, which may explain some of the reason why Pierce has had a hard time getting coordinated in his motor skills (though we'll never really know if it's related to this or just his extreme prematurity).

What this also means is that we're likely headed in for round 3 in brain surgery. Pierce's neurosurgeon is out on vacation this week (go figure) so we will have to wait until next week to see what his recommendations are, but we were told that these results most likely mean surgery in the near future.

While we are so saddened by the thought of our boy enduring yet another surgery, we are trusting in God's plan and know that He is still at work.

Would you please pray for us to have peace during this time? Also pray that Pierce would not become symptomatic during this waiting period.

One more note: last week I (Lindsay) had the opportunity of sitting down with Eric from New Life 91.9's morning show to share our story. Our segment will air tomorrow morning shortly after 7am. If you're out of town, you can listen online by going to their website: http://www.christiannetcast.com/listen/player.asp?station=wrcm-fm

Thank you for walking this journey with us. We are so grateful for all of you.

Love, Nik, Lindsay and Pierce

10 comments:

  1. Oh Lindsay, my heart honestly hurts right now. I can't imagine. Praying for His perfect peace and guidance as you continue this journey! Much love!

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  2. Thinking of you all as wait for the news from the neurosurgeon! Surprises combined with waiting are hard to take. hugs.

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  3. I will keep all of you in my prayers!

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  4. We will continue to keep Pierce and mommy and daddy too, in our prayers! I am sure Pierce will don his "SUPER" cape and leap this next surgery in a single bound! He is a most amazing little boy and God has worked wonderful miracles through Pierce. Your story has touched my heart and renewed my faith in God from the very beginning. I love being ale to keep up with Pierce through your updates! Thank you!

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  5. well poo. So many good updates and this pops up. He will be a rock star no matter what the surgeon says.

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  6. I just heard your story this morning on NewLife 91.9, I'm praying for Pierce and your family! So amazed at your grace and strength as you have faced this challenge. You are absolutely a testament of God's grace is sufficient and new every morning!

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  7. I know Piece will do fine. I also know how stessfull all of this is for you. I'm praying for all of you.

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  8. Prayer for all of you from Hong Kong

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