We got the call today with the results from the CVS test. I know a lot of you have been wondering if we have heard so I thought I would post...
We learned that there is a chromosome abnormality and that it is indeed Turner's Syndrome. If you don't remember, that is where there is a 99% chance of miscarriage. If I get past 26 weeks, I am considered to be in the 1%. The effects of Turner's Syndrome typically will not be noticed by anyone who does not know. For example, one of the effects is being shorter than average-- the child will most likely not be taller than 5 feet. (My mom should enjoy someone her own size now!) :) The child--if we get to delivery--has the full potential to live a long, healthy and normal life.
And, we found out that we are having a GIRL.
Ultimately, we feel this news is a mixed blessing.
I have felt for a while that I will not loose this baby, so initially, when she said it was Turner's and that signalled the 99% chance of miscarriage, I was confused with the feelings I had felt so strongly earlier. I thought, the FACTS of the matter are we will loose this baby to a miscarriage. BUT, I KNOW facts are not faith based.
I think the hardest thing about receiving this news is that I was mentally prepared (and convinced) that it would either be Down Syndrome or no abnormality. When Taylor and I spoke about what could happen, we knew Turner's was an option, but we never thought or talked about the chance that it would be Turner's. Never. So the news really did come as a shock. The genetic counselor continued to go on after giving me the news and I honestly don't remember a word she said.
So, you ask, how are we doing? A few hours ago that question most likely would have triggered the tears. But you ask me now, now that the news has been received and absorbed, we are doing good. We have the knowledge and support we need to get through this. We know and we believe that if we do loose this baby to a miscarriage, we will have the opportunity to raise that sweet little girl in the eternities. And that gives us great peace and comfort.
We also know that we will accept the Lord's will. We know that He is in control and if we put our FAITH and TRUST in Him, all will be ok. We know that. And because we know that, we are doing ok. Does it make it easier? No. But He never said it would be easy, He just said it would be worth it....and that, I do believe.
We are also lifted up by the incredible support and love we have felt from our friends and family....the care and the interest from those around us has truly made a difference in our lives throughout this experience. The prayers, the fasting, the calls, the messages.....have all meant so much to us and has helped us get through this and for that we are sincerely grateful to you.
We know we will get through this. We know that whatever happens will be God's will and that whatever happens is what is supposed to happen and knowing that has brought us the peace we need at this difficult time.
I remain hopeful and full of faith that we will be in that 1%. I believe miracles happen everyday. So for now, we take it one day at a time. The 20 week ultrasound will tell us a lot....so we pray that the cystic hygroma will resolve itself and disappear, because that will truly help our odds. If the cystic hygroma gets worse--which the ultrasound will tell us--the chances of having a stillbirth are likely. (Most likely, if it gets worse it is because there would be an excess of fluid building up around the baby). So please, pray with us now, that the cystic hygroma will resolve itself.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
...And we wait....and wait....and wait...
About 4:30 today that heart-dropping name and number popped up on the caller ID. It was the hospital. I answered it, prepared to hear the results.
Instead, it was the genetic counselor saying that the sample from the procedure was too small to take some out for the preliminary results. So, we won't know anything this week. Instead, we will wait until the final tests are run and they will call us at the end of next week....
I personally think this is for the best. For the preliminary results, they only test for 5 things whereas the final test will test for 46 things. And personally, I would like it all at once instead of a little here and a little there.....but if all could come tomorrow or Friday--I would have liked that better!
So, here's to waiting for another WEEK! Ugh, that sounds like a long time.
Instead, it was the genetic counselor saying that the sample from the procedure was too small to take some out for the preliminary results. So, we won't know anything this week. Instead, we will wait until the final tests are run and they will call us at the end of next week....
I personally think this is for the best. For the preliminary results, they only test for 5 things whereas the final test will test for 46 things. And personally, I would like it all at once instead of a little here and a little there.....but if all could come tomorrow or Friday--I would have liked that better!
So, here's to waiting for another WEEK! Ugh, that sounds like a long time.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The Procedure
Well, I survived the CVS procedure...and I really hope I never have to do that again! We had to be there first thing this morning and all in all the procedure went just as planned and the baby completely cooperated.
They used a needle and based on how my placenta was, they were able to go through my stomach. The worst part was when they injected -- what felt like -- tons and tons of numbing medicine. I literally could feel the medicine go in and spread. Definitely the worst.
They stuck the needle in and we were able to watch with the ultrasound throughout the whole procedure if we wanted--however, I had my arm over my face because I did not want to watch. When they stick the needle in, they use some sort of pump device to extract fluid from the placenta. They had to do this twice to ensure they had a big enough sample and to avoid me having to do this all over again.
The doctor was great and talked me through the entire thing, I supposedly did good and the baby, according to the doctor, didn't have a clue what was going on.
This doctor and nurse were very hopeful and very reassuring, which was a good change. We will know either way -- if it is a chromosomal abnormality or not -- by Thursday or Friday.
As for the recovery, I don't know if it feels like I have been punched in the stomach or if I did a killer ab workout because I am extremely sore. Despite having a low pain tolerance, I wouldn't say what I am feeling is pain, I think uncomfortable and sore describe it best.
So, now we wait.
They used a needle and based on how my placenta was, they were able to go through my stomach. The worst part was when they injected -- what felt like -- tons and tons of numbing medicine. I literally could feel the medicine go in and spread. Definitely the worst.
They stuck the needle in and we were able to watch with the ultrasound throughout the whole procedure if we wanted--however, I had my arm over my face because I did not want to watch. When they stick the needle in, they use some sort of pump device to extract fluid from the placenta. They had to do this twice to ensure they had a big enough sample and to avoid me having to do this all over again.
The doctor was great and talked me through the entire thing, I supposedly did good and the baby, according to the doctor, didn't have a clue what was going on.
This doctor and nurse were very hopeful and very reassuring, which was a good change. We will know either way -- if it is a chromosomal abnormality or not -- by Thursday or Friday.
As for the recovery, I don't know if it feels like I have been punched in the stomach or if I did a killer ab workout because I am extremely sore. Despite having a low pain tolerance, I wouldn't say what I am feeling is pain, I think uncomfortable and sore describe it best.
So, now we wait.
Monday, February 9, 2009
The CVS Test
The CVS test is scheduled for tomorrow morning. It is a quick, but uncomfortable, procedure. I will be on bed rest all day tomorrow following the procedure because they say the procedure could possibly cause a miscarriage. This test will tell us if the cystic hygroma is caused by a chromosomal abnormality or not. If it is a chromosomal abnormality, we'd know within a day or two after the procedure, but would not know which abnormality it was until 8-14 days. If it is not a chromosomal abnormality, we would not know that for 8-14 days.
Please pray that it is not a chromosomal abnormality!!! The baby's chances are so much higher if it is not a chromosomal abnormality.
Please pray that it is not a chromosomal abnormality!!! The baby's chances are so much higher if it is not a chromosomal abnormality.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Calling on the Prayers of the Righteous
I was looking forward to this post a few days ago, but after today, it took a whole new turn.
As some of you already know, I am pregnant with our second child. I am 11 weeks along. I went in to the doctor's office today to listen for the heartbeat, unfortunately we couldn't hear it (which is what happened with Isaac as well) so the doctor did an ultrasound. We could hear the heartbeat, but we also discovered a serious complication.
The doctor discovered a cyst on the back of the baby's neck--which is called cystic hygroma. Essentially, the baby didn't circulate it's fluids as it was suppose to. (It's more complex than that, but that's it in a nutshell).
This could take many directions. We will have a test done in the next week to determine if it is a chromosomal abnormality. If it is a chromosomal abnormality, it could be either Turner's syndrome, Tri 18 or Tri 21. If it is Turner's, there is a 99% chance I will miscarry. If I pass 26 weeks without a miscarriage, I am in the 1% group that could make it to delivery but there most likely are issues at that point. If it is Tri 18 it is considered a lethal chromosomal problem, meaning if I make it to delivery and the baby survives it there is a 90% chance the baby won't make it past their first birthday. If they do, it's a matter of months or years. And Tri 21 would be down syndrome.
If the test proves that it is not a chromosomal abnormality, the most likely factor we would be facing is a heart defect. If that is the case, we would learn the extent at the 20 week ultrasound. Some holes could close on their own, and if necessary a surgery could be performed when the baby was 3 months. This wouldn't be the only risk we'd be facing, but most likely the biggest.
With all that has happened today, we feel truly blessed to have the knowledge of the Gospel in our lives. I know that the Lord would not give us anything that we could not handle. And, as Taylor put it, the Lord created this cystic hygroma, and he can also take it away.
I am not looking for your sympathy or your pity with this post, instead I feel a great need to ask for your faith, your hope, and most importantly your prayers. We believe in miracles. We know the Lord is mindful of our hearts right now. And more importantly we are willing to accept whatever happens. So please, keep us in your prayers.
As some of you already know, I am pregnant with our second child. I am 11 weeks along. I went in to the doctor's office today to listen for the heartbeat, unfortunately we couldn't hear it (which is what happened with Isaac as well) so the doctor did an ultrasound. We could hear the heartbeat, but we also discovered a serious complication.
The doctor discovered a cyst on the back of the baby's neck--which is called cystic hygroma. Essentially, the baby didn't circulate it's fluids as it was suppose to. (It's more complex than that, but that's it in a nutshell).
This could take many directions. We will have a test done in the next week to determine if it is a chromosomal abnormality. If it is a chromosomal abnormality, it could be either Turner's syndrome, Tri 18 or Tri 21. If it is Turner's, there is a 99% chance I will miscarry. If I pass 26 weeks without a miscarriage, I am in the 1% group that could make it to delivery but there most likely are issues at that point. If it is Tri 18 it is considered a lethal chromosomal problem, meaning if I make it to delivery and the baby survives it there is a 90% chance the baby won't make it past their first birthday. If they do, it's a matter of months or years. And Tri 21 would be down syndrome.
If the test proves that it is not a chromosomal abnormality, the most likely factor we would be facing is a heart defect. If that is the case, we would learn the extent at the 20 week ultrasound. Some holes could close on their own, and if necessary a surgery could be performed when the baby was 3 months. This wouldn't be the only risk we'd be facing, but most likely the biggest.
Right now there is no risk to me. And this condition is a random "bad luck" type of thing--not hereditary.
With all that has happened today, we feel truly blessed to have the knowledge of the Gospel in our lives. I know that the Lord would not give us anything that we could not handle. And, as Taylor put it, the Lord created this cystic hygroma, and he can also take it away.
I am not looking for your sympathy or your pity with this post, instead I feel a great need to ask for your faith, your hope, and most importantly your prayers. We believe in miracles. We know the Lord is mindful of our hearts right now. And more importantly we are willing to accept whatever happens. So please, keep us in your prayers.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
January Birthdays
Yes, we are still alive and yes it is February and I am posting about January birthdays. Jan. 3 birthday's in fact! I've been meaning to post about these for awhile, but.....just haven't. So, without any more delay, here are the two birthday tributes to my nephew Braden and my mother-in-law Suzanne!
Since blogger uploaded Suzanne's pictures first, I will start with her. Phew....where do you start?! When I think of Suzanne a slew of words come to mind and yet none of them seem to do her justice for how incredible and wonderful she is!!
To begin, I think back to the very first time I met her...it was February 2005. For a little background information, Suzanne is sisters with Mary Ann McConkie---and Mary Ann lives in Colorado Springs and I have known the McConkie's my whole life--essentially. And Suzanne and Mary Ann definitely resemble being sisters, so when I first met Suzanne, I think the first words out of my mouth were "Oh yeah, I can see the resemblance between you and Mary Ann!" Not the most brilliant selection of words, but yet the meaning was that as much as I loved Mary Ann I felt an instant love for Suzanne. And that's just what Suzanne does--makes people feel welcomed and loved the instant they are around her!!!
Oh Suzanne is just a wonderful, incredible, beautiful, thoughtful person. She is always thinking of her kids and family. She always wants to do whatever she can for her kids and their families. She is selfless, she is giving, she is spiritual, she listens, she cares, she is fun. I have the utmost respect and love for her.
And I can't not mention what a great Grandma she is! This picture was taken last Easter. She is such a fun Grandma, I know all my nieces and nephews just love her and Isaac definitely goes to her easily. (Which is worth noting because Isaac can be very shy around people he doesn't see often, so it's pretty neat). I just love you Suzanne, I honestly could not have asked for a better mother-in-law! You have taught me so much about love and family and service. You are incredibly patient and understanding and a great cook! :) (Sorry, had to throw that in, too!) I honestly am enlightened and uplifted whenever I am around you!! And I am incredibly grateful for your example because it has and will always influence Taylor, and for that I am eternally grateful. I love you so much Suzanne and want to see you!!! :) Happy (Really late) birthday!!!
Braden. Braden ALSO had a birthday on January 3. I feel very excited to post a tribute to Braden because I have had some really fun and really special times getting to know him even more this past year. In June of last year, Braden and Suzanne drove up to Pocatello to spend a weekend with us. Then, when we were in Utah for Thanksgiving, the brothers and Braden and I went shooting. (And it was really cold so at one point Braden and I sat in the car to stay warm!)
Braden turned 7 this year and it gets me so excited (almost too excited) because I want to book tickets already to go out next year when he turns EIGHT!!!!!!!!!! I can't even believe what a smart, sweet, fun and loving boy Braden is becoming. (In the sense that don't boys become like this when they are 19,20....???? Obviously I have never had a brother). And really, I am SO excited and thrilled that Braden is the oldest boy cousin because I know Isaac will look up to him, which I think is awesome.
Braden is so giving and helpful. When they came in June last year, he was unbelievably sweet to Isaac who was only....8 months old? (aka...not someone old enough to really play with yet). Which goes to show what a great big brother he is! He also brought a book so he could read it to Isaac....cute huh?!?!
Braden is also very funny. When we were sitting in the car talking over Thanksgiving break, he was just cracking me up. For example, his dad Cam was joking about how he was going to shoot the "Y" and Braden goes, "Oh don't worry, he'll never make it" referring to how far in distance we were from the "Y." It was just so funny. He continued to say things that just made me laugh!!
And I can't forget to mention what an incredible athlete Braden is!! I just want to savor these years that he is playing in the little leagues because I know soon enough we'll be at some high school cheering him on and then where has the time gone?! I believe he has a sport for every season....football, then basketball, then baseball, then soccer. (Correct??) And he said he really likes basketball but I believe he said soccer was his ultimate favorite (at least at that time it was). I was just amazed at how much he loves sports, I think it's great because he has a natural ability in each of them!!!
I am soooooo grateful and happy to be an aunt to Braden!!! He is an incredible boy who is talented in so many aspects of his life. His siblings are lucky to have him as a brother!! And I know his parents love him dearly. Braden, if you read this, I love you dearly and am SO excited for the days that you get to teach Isaac and our other kids how to play sports!! I know you'll be great at it! Happy (really late, again) birthday!!!
Since blogger uploaded Suzanne's pictures first, I will start with her. Phew....where do you start?! When I think of Suzanne a slew of words come to mind and yet none of them seem to do her justice for how incredible and wonderful she is!!
To begin, I think back to the very first time I met her...it was February 2005. For a little background information, Suzanne is sisters with Mary Ann McConkie---and Mary Ann lives in Colorado Springs and I have known the McConkie's my whole life--essentially. And Suzanne and Mary Ann definitely resemble being sisters, so when I first met Suzanne, I think the first words out of my mouth were "Oh yeah, I can see the resemblance between you and Mary Ann!" Not the most brilliant selection of words, but yet the meaning was that as much as I loved Mary Ann I felt an instant love for Suzanne. And that's just what Suzanne does--makes people feel welcomed and loved the instant they are around her!!!Oh Suzanne is just a wonderful, incredible, beautiful, thoughtful person. She is always thinking of her kids and family. She always wants to do whatever she can for her kids and their families. She is selfless, she is giving, she is spiritual, she listens, she cares, she is fun. I have the utmost respect and love for her.
And I can't not mention what a great Grandma she is! This picture was taken last Easter. She is such a fun Grandma, I know all my nieces and nephews just love her and Isaac definitely goes to her easily. (Which is worth noting because Isaac can be very shy around people he doesn't see often, so it's pretty neat). I just love you Suzanne, I honestly could not have asked for a better mother-in-law! You have taught me so much about love and family and service. You are incredibly patient and understanding and a great cook! :) (Sorry, had to throw that in, too!) I honestly am enlightened and uplifted whenever I am around you!! And I am incredibly grateful for your example because it has and will always influence Taylor, and for that I am eternally grateful. I love you so much Suzanne and want to see you!!! :) Happy (Really late) birthday!!!Braden. Braden ALSO had a birthday on January 3. I feel very excited to post a tribute to Braden because I have had some really fun and really special times getting to know him even more this past year. In June of last year, Braden and Suzanne drove up to Pocatello to spend a weekend with us. Then, when we were in Utah for Thanksgiving, the brothers and Braden and I went shooting. (And it was really cold so at one point Braden and I sat in the car to stay warm!)
Braden turned 7 this year and it gets me so excited (almost too excited) because I want to book tickets already to go out next year when he turns EIGHT!!!!!!!!!! I can't even believe what a smart, sweet, fun and loving boy Braden is becoming. (In the sense that don't boys become like this when they are 19,20....???? Obviously I have never had a brother). And really, I am SO excited and thrilled that Braden is the oldest boy cousin because I know Isaac will look up to him, which I think is awesome.Braden is so giving and helpful. When they came in June last year, he was unbelievably sweet to Isaac who was only....8 months old? (aka...not someone old enough to really play with yet). Which goes to show what a great big brother he is! He also brought a book so he could read it to Isaac....cute huh?!?!
Braden is also very funny. When we were sitting in the car talking over Thanksgiving break, he was just cracking me up. For example, his dad Cam was joking about how he was going to shoot the "Y" and Braden goes, "Oh don't worry, he'll never make it" referring to how far in distance we were from the "Y." It was just so funny. He continued to say things that just made me laugh!!And I can't forget to mention what an incredible athlete Braden is!! I just want to savor these years that he is playing in the little leagues because I know soon enough we'll be at some high school cheering him on and then where has the time gone?! I believe he has a sport for every season....football, then basketball, then baseball, then soccer. (Correct??) And he said he really likes basketball but I believe he said soccer was his ultimate favorite (at least at that time it was). I was just amazed at how much he loves sports, I think it's great because he has a natural ability in each of them!!!
I am soooooo grateful and happy to be an aunt to Braden!!! He is an incredible boy who is talented in so many aspects of his life. His siblings are lucky to have him as a brother!! And I know his parents love him dearly. Braden, if you read this, I love you dearly and am SO excited for the days that you get to teach Isaac and our other kids how to play sports!! I know you'll be great at it! Happy (really late, again) birthday!!!Well family, I have now successfully paid everyone a birthday tribute. I started with Sydney and my dad in February last year, and have now ended with Braden and Suzanne in January. So, I hope you have enjoyed the birthday tributes because this will be the last one (at least for a while---we have a big family you know! It's hard to keep up with all of them!) So, know that I love you and have enjoyed paying tribute to you over the past year because each and every one of you have impacted mine and my family's life in so many ways!! (And I really need a Housley dose soon!)
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