Thursday, January 8, 2009

The Guessing Game

We are settling back into a more normal (not in the hospital) routine now and Carly is doing pretty well. She had several mornings where she was clearly not feeling great but whether it was teething pain, a passing cold bug, adjusting to a lower (normal) pressure in her brain or a failing shunt is never clear cut as the first signs of all of these are pretty much the same. As you can imagine this really keeps Christa and I on our toes, and we continue to learn how to read the subtleties of Carly's reactions each day. It will sure be a lot easier when she can tell us what is bothering her!

We met with Dr. Gupta earlier this week as a post surgical follow up and to review her most recent MRI in greater detail. He is happy with how the shunt incisions are healing and commented on how good Carly looked. The tumor itself has grown a bit along the edge that was resected, but not enough to warrant surgery at this time. We will stick with the original plan of checking on the tumor every three months to determine when the next surgery will need to happen. Dr. Gupta said that he expected that this would probably be in the 6 to 12 month timeframe. In the meantime we will focus all of our energy on getting Carly stronger each day.

Love, Brad

8 comments:

T-Rex said...

Brad & Christa, you're amazing parents. Carly is so lucky to have you (and vice versa) :) I continue to look at carly's picture and envision her healthy brain and body every day! I hope she's feeling a little better today - can't wait to see you all on sunday!

Anonymous said...

agreed. you guys are the best parents ever. you are doing everything right and Carly has proven to be as amazing as the two of you. We think about you three and send our love and prayers your way every day.

lots and lots of love,
Sheila

Anonymous said...

de la part d'une mamie française qui admire vôtre courage à tous les trois, je souhaite que cette nouvelle année vous soit tellement plus douce, et que Carly Grace, dans sa seconde année, ne soit pour vous que source de bonheur (ce qu'elle est deja)et ,le moins possible ,de soucis.Nous pensons souvent à vous.(je suis la maman de cecile Cornillon, Paul de Purdue University)

Unknown said...

We love you carly, you are a true rockstar (just like your parents)! Sending positive, healing energy to you constantly. Can't wait to celebrate your birthday! -kim

Anonymous said...

I know I might be repeating sentiments, but I just want to say that you two really are such incredible parents, people, friends, partners. The three of you were cetainly meant to be a team. And what a team you are.
I'm cheering (and praying) for you all the time!
Love love love,
Mindy, Drew, Layla and Chloe

Olivia said...

Happy Birthday to Carly! Loving birthday wishes, Olivia

savannah said...

Happy Birthday Carly! Hope you had a terrific day and we are celebrating with you in spirit,

Love,
The Barneys

Anonymous said...

Happy Happy Birthday Carly!! We love you so much and cannot wait to see you again in February. You are a shining star, enjoy this special day.

Hugs,
Mark and Lance