no heart change & fantastic growth continues

As a result of our fetal echo last Friday, our pediatric cardiologist indicated there was virtually no change with Brooke's heart. Of course, we preferred to hear that she was completely healed and now has no signs of HLHS, but, alas, no movement toward the negative was the next best news! We had a fantastic discussion with the cardiologist regarding what to expect immediately after delivery, before surgery, after surgery, during recovery, etc. We have a much better picture of what to expect throughout Brooke's first several days and weeks of life, and, while some of the details we discussed are hard to swallow, knowing what we know now is helping us mentally and emotionally prepare for Brooke's arrival and what's to follow. We so appreciate the level of care we have at St. Louis Children's. It makes this difficult road just a little easier to walk.

 

Also, the BIG news...as a result of my growth ultrasound, my OB indicated that Brooke measures very well and now weighs 5lbs 7oz! Wow! So, she's jumped from the 31st percentile to the 48th in just a few weeks. HUGE praise! Doc said she gets an "A+" for growth. That's my girl! :)

 

We also checked out some apartment options in the area while we were there and were able to secure one this week. Yay! This is a huge thing to get checked off the preparation list.

 

Praises/prayer...

• Praise that Brooke continues to grow very well. Pray that this good growth continues.
• Pray that God will heal her sweet little heart if it's His will.
• Praise that we have secured a good housing option for our time in St. Louis.
• Praise that we have had family and a number of friends offer to help care for our older two--as well as do whatever else is necessary--in the several weeks following Brooke's birth. We are truly SO grateful for you...and you know who you are!! :)
• Praise that I'm feeling good overall other than being tired and dealing with swelling and varicose veins in my right leg. Just trying to endure it for another few weeks.
• Pray that I get to 39 weeks. It's critical for Brooke to grow and develop as long as possible before I am induced at 39 weeks.
• Pray for the four of us as we attempt to physically, mentally and emotionally prepare for the road ahead. 

My induction date has been set for October 29. We meet our sweet Brooklyn Hope in just four short weeks. John and I agree it's becoming more and more real, this HLHS road we're traveling, with each passing appointment and each passing day. And as much as we try to prepare, I think it's nearly impossible to fully prepare for what's to come. But, one thing's for sure... We have a "confident expectation and desire for something good in the future," as John Piper says. We have hope. Not the fingers-crossed kind of hope. Hope in Christ. Hope, "confident expectation," that God will heal her and confidence that if He chooses not to do so, that she's still in His hands and He is still good. Ultimately, we have hope that He will be glorified in our journey and through our trial. That is our utmost desire.