Saturday, November 8, 2008

You Can't Always Get What You Want

Carly had her ultrasound yesterday which showed that her ventricles had decreased in size since the ultrasound that preceded her last tap. This is the good news. The bad news is that the fluid bump on her head started coming back pretty quickly after the wrap was removed and it continues to get bigger today. This likely means that she is still producing CSF faster than she is absorbing it and she will likely need to have a shunt inserted next week.

Since September 12 when we learned of Carly's tumor we have often reminded ourselves that the most important thing is a happy and healthy future for Carly. There are a lot of challenges along the way to this future and we may not always get there on the easiest path, but she will get there. The shunt can be an important factor in getting her there as it will allow her brain to develop properly. There is still a good chance that once the remainder of her tumor is removed she will no longer need the shunt for this fluid regulation. We appreciate all of your love and support and know that it is helping Carly each day.

Love, Brad

13 comments:

NicciN said...

Sorry it isn't your ideal plan, but glad that things are moving forward. Sending much love to all of you.

SAHM said...

Sorry to hear about this potential setback/side path to your end goal. We will pray for wisdom for all in making final decisions and for positive outcomes. On a cheery sidenote, we often sing your titled Rolling Stones song to our children when they are whining about something. It made me smile to read it here.

Anonymous said...

She will get what she needs, though. Carly has such great parents and you guys have a tough little girl, it is a relief to know you are all together being positive and always moving forward despite setbacks. Praying for her everyday,
Sheila

Anonymous said...

I can't imagine how heavy this feels for you, but there are so many forces in Carly's favor. The whole world is on an upswing right now. And we've all learned that when people pull together and demand greatness, it can be achieved. And we all know how many people are sending all their positive energy Carly's way.
Love you all.

karen said...

A setback, but I truly believe her future will be happy, healthy and shunt-free. We're sending our love everyday, and keeping that thought in our minds.
xoxo

Lani said...

Still thinking about you guys and Carly and sending all our love over to SF.
xoxo
Lani

Anonymous said...

The good news is that there is something that can be done about the fluid. A good friend of mine knows a girl that has had a shunt for over 20 years and she's getting married next Spring and living a normal life. We just want you to know that every day you guys are being thought of and prayed for. Beth ran a 10K for Carly in Atlanta last Saturday. The run was for children that have had or have brain tumors. She made buttons for the girls that were running with Carly's picture on the buttons. We're all behind you and wish we could do more. Love you, Dennis and Kathy Buchweitz

Anonymous said...

Hi, Brad,

This is Han (Dr.Neslon's PHD student, we met couple times bebofre in your home). I just came back from a trip to Eroupe and am very glad to know Carly's recent positive progress from the blog. Both my wife and I would continuously pray for Carly's health. We are so moved by your endless loves to Carly and hope both Christa and you to take care of yourselves well, too.

Anonymous said...

We want to let you know that we are always checking the blog to get the latest updates about Carly. We think about all of you everyday! It sounds like the shunt will be a step to helping Carly continue to grow and get healthy.
All of our positive energy and prayers are flowing to SF.
We love you!
J,W,K,T,MC

Anonymous said...

One of the women from Obama's transition team was on Meet the Press on Sunday, she spoke of the "Joy of the immense possibilities for us". I immediately thought of Carly and felt that it seems to apply to her as well. She has the greatest support team in the two of you.
Love, M

savannah said...

Thanks so much for all the updates and keeping us involved in Carly's progress - sending our love and positive thoughts from up north.
Love, S,T,& e

Tooley said...

Yet another thing that needs to happen for Carly to continue on her road to healing. Another very hard pill to swallow. My strongest hopes go to her that she will only need it for a short time. All three of you are so strong. All my positive thoughts are focused on you. Love, Matt T.

Anonymous said...

As cold, wet clouds roll over Indiana, we are glad that you live in a warm climate. You have enough to deal with without snowsuits and mittens! Thank you so much for the blogs. We think about Carly every day and hope and pray for good things for her.
Greg and Gail