November 21, 2014 "Post-Op Doctor Visit # 4"

Today was our 4th post-op doctor's appointment. We, as always, go into these appointments with such anticipation and hope that things have changed. This visit was no different than any other. Rayden's movements, breathing, etc. were great. He is still breech, and his feet are once again back over his head. His heartbeat was 141bpm. His ventricles have grown again! The left grew from 23mm to 24mm. The right grew from 36mm to 37mm. Just to put it into perspective for you 8-10mm is considered normal. 10-12mm is mildly enlarged or elevated. 12-15mm is severe. So what would you say 24mm and 37mm are? I know last week I said they were considering this to be stable, but that was then and this is now. Dr. Goodnight said that he was going to consult with Dr. Elton, the neurosurgeon. He just can't explain why, after 5 1/2 weeks post surgery, that his vents are not reducing. He says this is not normal, they are extraordinarily large. He also wants us to go ahead and prepare ourselves that Rayden will have to have a shunt within days of birth. This is brain surgery on an infant!! The main reason we did the fetal surgery was to prevent this. Now, they are telling us it's not working and he's going to have brain surgery? Why, why, why is this happening? I'm doing exactly what he said do...nothing!! I just don't understand.... This is so depressing and down hearting to us.

I am trying to draw strength from scripture and prayer, but it's really hard when you are the one walking this path.

Next doctor's visit is Nov. 26.