E bug had her Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) evaluation on Thursday, and it went fairly well. They "tested" her in all kinds of areas including cognitive abilities, communication, physical abilities, etc. In some of the areas she was equivalent to a two month old (communication - aka, she gets mad when she gets her diaper changed and knows how to tell me that she's mad) and in some of the areas she was equivalent to a brand new baby (she doesn't follow toys with her eyes yet). Although we expected her to be "behind" in some areas, it's still somewhat depressing to think your child isn't right where she is supposed to be. That being said, we are grateful for the positives and will work on the negatives prior to her next evaluation. She will begin physical therapy this Thursday to work on building muscles in her lower legs. Let the walking preparation begin!
On a positive note, E got in to see the spina bifida guru at Scottish Rite earlier than expected. We will go for an all-day appointment next Friday, the 18th. I think she will undergo her urodynamic study that day to ensure that her bladder is emptying properly and is not backing up into her kidneys. Please say lots of prayers for good test results because this will determine whether we have to catheterize her. I think we will also meet with a nutritionist who will hopefully be able to help us with her weight gain (or lack thereof) and pooping issues.
We took E swimming for the first time over the Labor Day weekend, and she loved it. I think she enjoyed the warmth of the sun as well the waves of the water. She fell fast asleep right after we got in the pool. We can't wait for many more fun days in the sun together.
My sweet Patrick was "delayed" for around a year. We endured many monthly visits where we were reminded of his challenges and what to work on. It was one, glorious day when he was 15 months old when we were "dimissed," from ECI and he graduated. You just hang in there and keep the faith my dear friend! Your day will come!!! Lots of love and hugs to you, the family, and especially Baby E!!!
ReplyDeletehang in there K your doing such an amazing job!! i'm so glad you have this blog it was a fantastic idea. cool picture the water looks great (boy is she relaxed!!!!)
ReplyDeletelots of love!!
All will be praying here at FC, for her development and therapy, you are getting her the help she needs to be successful, keep up the great work ,mom and dad! Praying for her appointment next Friday and continued prayers for her cardio check up also. What a sweetie!
ReplyDeleteChad and Stephanie w/Hand in Hand prayer team at Fellowshipchurch