Fourth Farmer Update

We got in to see the pediatric neurologist on Friday! This is such a praise! The original appointment was November 6. And I didn't have much choice. There are only 4 pediatric neurologists on this island, the most populated of the islands. My doctor will go to the outer islands to hold appointments sometimes, and then she is spread between a few different offices on this island, so it is hard to get in with her. Ironic that we have so few pediatric neurologists here, considering we are the #2 hotspot for pediatricians. From experience with my mom's stroke, though, there is a huge shortage in the field of neurology in general.



The reason our original appointment was so late is not only because of a limited number of slots, but also because Son2 had a normal CT scan, EEG, and bloodwork in the hospital. If any of these tests would have shown abnormalities, our appointment would have been immediately following our hospital visit. All this aside...we were happy to get in!



The doctor was super thorugh. She spent 2 hours with us (Hubby went, too), taking extensive family history, measurements, and conducting a lengthy exam. Basically, she concluded that these episodes are probably not seizures, though they are seizure-like. Son2's head moves rhythimcally from side to side during the episodes, unlike seizure activity. Also, he can do something purposeful during the episodes, like nurse, so that is unlike a seizure. The negative CT scan and EEG also indicate that these episodes aren't seizures. He hit all of the developmental milestones, and he is super social. (Tell me again, who is his mother?!?) She called him a big flirt. But the seizure like episodes continue to happen....



I am supposed to call tomorrow for an appt in 4 to 6 weeks, and continue to log the activity of these episodes. She wants to hold off on an MRI for now, and we will decide if we need one in 4 to 6 weeks. There is a special anesthesia that is used during an MRI that will keep Son2 asleep for the 1 hour imaging. So that is where we are for now........



We lean on our faith...below is a passage from the book of James, 1:2-3, NASB.


2Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
3knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.



So we choose JOY, and it's not easy. It's a choice Hubby and I make every day. And in this passage the apostle Paul uses the word "when", and not "if". Here on earth, we continue to live in an imperfect world, and it goes without saying that we will feel pain of all sorts. Just because we are good people does not mean we get a ticket out of pain in this life. And it is painful to watch these episodes. Heavy sigh. But it all comes down to how we choose to respond. And by choosing JOY we find the endurance to enjoy Son2 in all of his babyhood, babbling, and giggliness despite the trials. I'll keep you posted as to what's happening....thanks to all who have loved on us during this time.