love my little boy (snuggling after a difficult week)
clowns!
first time in a hospital gown
ready for some baseballSunday, October 3rd: The day began with a trip all the way to UNA for some baseball. Grandmomma joined us for the trip. It turned out to be a cold, windy day but Stryker didn't mind. He loves baseball so much.
Monday, October 4th: Stryker's neurologist appointment was today. Coco rode with Stryker & me to Children's Hospital. Logan met us there from work. Stryker saw his first clown while in the waiting room! He was unsure at first but then started smiling & laughing at her hot pink curly hair. Dr. Pierre Fequiere was the neurologist. He was absolutely wonderful. Stryker thought his examination was a game which made us feel good seeing him smiling & laughing the entire time. Dr. Fequiere had a great bedside manner. Wish the end result was better than the appointment. Unfortunately, Dr. Fequiere thought Stryker had "probable CP". My heart sunk & immediately looked at Logan with tearful eyes. Logan was in shock along with my mom. We were all coming to an appointment with the intention of nothing being wrong with our child. Instead, we were hearing news that we couldn't dream of hearing. Dr. Fequiere immediately stopped talking to ask why the tears. I explained the fears of what that diagnosis brought from my past respiratory & physical therapy past experiences. He informed us that this was a probable diagnosis due to decreased strength on Stryker's left side, Stryker quickly transferring objects from left hand to right hand, thumbs staying adducted, etc. We're scheduled for an MRI in January 2011. Until then, Dr. Fequiere suggested getting early intervention. This will be intense physical & occupational therapy. Blood was also drawn to rule out muscle inflammation which were negative. Dr. Fequiere stressed the point that Stryker may not have CP but if he does it would be very mild. After the appointment, I called to give an update to our current physical therapist & occupational therapist. Our PT began the pathway for getting services through Hand & Hand. Plan is to continue working with Stryker at home on the things our PT has given us to do & wait to hear from Hand & Hand. Since this appointment, I have been researching everything regarding CP. Part of me blames myself for this diagnosis. CP can be a result of premature labor as well as a small birth canal. I have been praying for peace of mind. My focus of research has been about finding things that would help Stryker, but the thought of causing my child to possibly have CP creeps in everyday. All a parent hopes & dreams for is a healthy child. When something is wrong then you immediately blame yourself.
Wednesday, October 6th: On a more positive note, Stryker's head shape is very much improved! He had an updated head scan at Hanger today which showed improvement with all measurements. What fantastic news!! Thank you Lord for this uplifting news! The helmet will definitely be off before Christmas. The orthotist said the helmet would be worn probably no longer than 2 1/2 more months. If Stryker goes through another big growth spurt soon, then it will be off in less time.
Courtney, my heart goes out to you. I know that the possible diagnosis brings so many fears and worries; however, hold onto that it may NOT be CP at all, and we know it could be so, so much worse. You are getting him the care you need now, and that will go a long way! Remember, God has him in His hands, and he is the ultimate healer. I know in my heart that Stryker is going to be okay, and this will make your family even stronger.
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