Into the Valley

Life is a series of highs and lows. We don't live on the mountain tops though it's good to remember them when we are in the midst of the valleys. Recent events in my family have brought us into one of those deep and difficult places where our greatest comfort is in knowing that we are not alone. True to His promises, God has been with us every step of the way. We've also been encouraged to know that others have passed this way before us. It is in the hope that our experiences might be an encouragement to those who find themselves following us that I have decided to share our journey here.

My son, Jason, and his wife, Amanda, are expecting their second child. Their daughter, Evaine, is two years old. Back in April they went for their 20 week ultrasound and were thrilled to discover that they were having a boy. However, the doctor expressed some concerns over some of the things he noted on that ultrasound and they were asked to return twice more for more detailed exams. They kept hoping that it was all a mistake and that the next ultrasound would show that all was well. Instead, each successive ultrasound caused even greater concern.

We belong to a praying community and Jason decided that they needed as much support as we could give. He sent out an email asking us to join them in praying and has been sending out updates ever since. Ultimately, they discovered that their son has a genetic disorder called Triploidy. I have asked them for permission to share their story and some of his emails here and so, I will begin at the beginning...

April 26

Our followup ultrasound occurred yesterday and we spoke with the doctor afterwards so I thought I would pass on an update of our little baby's situation.  In short, there is essentially no positive change.  This ultrasound still shows that the baby is small in the limbs, fingers, and body, but at least he was moving a bit more and one of the doctors thought he saw a second umbilical artery, although he was the only one to think so and was not as experienced in carrying out ultrasound work.  I hope he was seeing something in the spirit. 

The list of markers and issues continues to grow and now includes a single umbilical artery, skeletal displasia/intrauterine growth restriction, communication between two of the chambers in the heart, micrognathia, and echogenic bowel.  I may have left something out, but my mind is not what it once was.  I will not go into the details of each of these things as it would take too long and is hard for me to think about right now. 

It appears, at this point, that the child has some form of genetic/chromosomal issue.  The question is really which one.  We are attempting to schedule an amniocentesis for early next week (hopefully Monday) which will give us more information on what it might be.  The baby is also being scheduled for a fetal echocardiogram and an MRI to look at the heart, bones, and brain. 

All in all, this is a very dark situation that could use some serious miracle power.  Thank you so much for praying for us and believing with us.  I will keep you updated as things progress. 

Jason