Brain Sparing Results

The results are in. (Some of them anyway... the ones that were out-standing). We still have more tests, but for everything that has been done... we have results and answers.

Last weekend, my parents were gracious enough to watch our kiddos for us to go to an Astros game in celebration of Corbett's birthday. About four years ago, we went to a game right around the same time - to celebrate and to get our minds off of the news we'd just heard about our Twin B. I'm not really going to relive that time, but I will note one phrase that was constantly used... "If Twin B survives, something called brain and heart sparing will take place." Remember... he wasn't receiving all blood flow through his umbilical cord - therefore, all that he was receiving was going straight to his brain and heart! Isn't God wonderful - that he can so meticulously make that happen!?

The results of his MRI this last week showed us that this truly did happen. Whit's brain was spared. There are no visual anomalies in his brain that are causing his neurological deficits. Now, that's not to say there are none there. Remember, God did create the neurological system in a very complex way - meaning that some of the best neurological doctors in the world can't figure out some things! So - all that to say - we are grateful that his brain was spared. It doesn't mean that he does not have CP. His neurological developmental pediatrician and his nurse were sure to say "that doesn't mean he's clear of that diagnosis." (But, in my mind... it means that it doesn't severely affect the brain!) :)

One thing that did show up in the MRI was an enlarged spinal column as it enters the brain. So, another MRI will be done in late October to scan the entire nervous system and his spinal cord. He has excess fluid there, and his Dr. wants to check that out.

I also visited with the psychologist that did his assessment back in August. Once more, brain sparing was evident. Developmentally, he does show mild delays - but nothing too significant. Fine motor skills were most affected, but he is making nice progress in that area. Cognitive development was his strongest point... brain... WOW! Several domains in behavioral abilities were also assessed. He did show some areas of concern, and we'll just monitor and track those closely where social aspects and stimulation are concerned.

Overall, we are very pleased with the results. Yes, there are delays and areas to work on... but, we just continue with the therapies that we already have in place - and monitor his progress.