Patrick Update

Recently, I've had several people ask me how Patrick is doing.  So, I thought I'd take a moment and give you all an update on our little guy.  It hardly seems possible that seven months have passed since he was born!

First of all, I want to thank all of you for being so supportive of Patrick and our whole family.  From the friends who organized a babysitting schedule to watch the big kids while I took Patrick to doctor appointments, to all of the folks who have been continually praying for his health and well being, we have been surrounded by friends since he was born.  Patrick is well loved by many people, and it shows in every area of his development.

Overall, Patrick is extremely healthy!  The pediatrician is pleased with his growth -- he's right in the middle of the growth chart for kids with Down Syndrome, which is smaller than for a "typical" child.  He has had a couple of minor colds and an eye infection, but otherwise he's been free of illnesses.  Yesterday, he received his first of four Synagis shots to prevent RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).  This should help keep him healthy this winter. 

Patrick has had twice-a-month visits from a physical therapist and a speech therapist since he was only a couple of months old.  I give these talented women much of the credit for his great progress.  We are learning many strategies to help him compensate for his low tone, and he is now able to sit up with only a small amount of support at his back.  He is also eating like a champ!  This is important not just for growth, but because the muscles used for feeding are the same as those used for speech.

We also are blessed to have found a wonderful graduate student who is here six hours a day during the week to help Patrick through his daily routine, and he adores her!

Hearing remains the big question mark.  Patrick will have a sedated ABR (auditory brainstem response) test in the operating room at Georgetown University Hospital on December 7th.  It is likely that the doctor will place PE (pressure equalization) tubes at that time.  He has had periodic hearning tests during the past several months, and the pressure in his ears has fluctuated between positive pressure, negative pressure and normal pressure.  Hopefully, the tubes can keep the pressure normal and thus help his hearing.  The ABR will tell us what, if any, hearing loss there is at various frequencies--so we will know what sounds are likely to be difficult for him to hear.

We have a visit next month to the pediatric clinical geneticist -- this is the specialist who stays on top of any health issues specific to Down Syndrome, and makes sure that we're getting all the appropriate testing on schedule.

But, all of these issues are so very minor when we look at the big picture.  The bottom line . . . life with Patrick is awesome!  He attracts all his siblings like a glowing light.  They read stories, offer toys, feed bottles, and hold him when he is sleeping.  They adore him . . . we all do.  And he brings out the best in all of us, and everyone he meets.  I cannot for a moment imagine our lives without him!