Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Not Good News for Nate

I didn't post at all about my kids' appointment with the retinal specialist two months ago.  Partly, because I figured if I didn't put it in writing then maybe it's not really happening.

But it is.  And we could use some prayers.  Nathan is not responding to the diuretic as well as the girls.  His right eye, which is his good eye, is kinda responding.  It seemed to show some improvement at the last visit, two months ago and is essentially holding steady (though maybe slightly worse) since last time.

Nate's left eye we are losing.  In two months his vision had dropped from 20/30 to 20/35.  And because we aren't seeing notable improvement in Nate's right eye...I feel nervous.  I came home from the retinal appointment yesterday and had myself a little cry.  I don't want to watch my child go blind.  But I also know that this is--big time--in the Lord's hands.

Our next step for Nate is to get a basic metabolic panel and see how bad the side effects of the meds are.  You see Nate is on the same dose as Emma.  So physically there's a big difference.  (Emma's 5' 6" and Nate's more like 4' 6".)

Two months ago, we bumped Nate up to Emma's dose.  Now, if his body can handle it, we'll bump him up again.  If his body can't handle more of that, we'll have to try the injections in the eye that Emma got at the beginning, you know the ones that cost between $200-$2500 depending on whether it's name-brand or generic.

So we will do what we can and leave the rest to the Lord.

4 comments:

Keryn said...

Oh, Jenna. I'm so very sorry. Bad things aren't supposed to happen to our kids!

I know you stay strong for the kids, but remember it's okay to have that "little cry" sometimes.

Our family motto is "We can do hard things." I know you can, too. I'm praying for you all and especially for Nate's eyes. Good luck and let me know if you ever need any help.

zippy said...

You are all in my prayers! While I truly believe that all things happen for a reason, I am also beginning to understand that those who are destined for great things are given great trails and challenges because 1. they can handle it and 2. because it is a form of preparation for those great things for which they are destined. You, Nate, and your entire family are destined for GREAT things! Heavenly Father loves you, knows what you can handle, AND how to help you all grow. I'm grateful you have faith in Him and that you know to trust in that He will see you through this. I'll be on the look out for updates. Hugs!

Rach said...

I just sat and read through all the posts about your kids and what you've been through with their eyes. I want to hop in the car, drive down and give you a big hug. I am so impressed with your bravery and your determination. I'm also so amazed that there are ways to fix and slow down the problems. My prayers are with you and your family as you go through all this.

Jenna Wood said...

Thanks you guys. Knowing that your thoughts and prayers are with us is very helpful.