Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Update on Addison

Have You Prayed for Your Secret Sister Today?

Addison had her appointment with Dr. Enlow at Akron Children's Hospital yesterday. We started out the day with an EEG, which was traumatizing for all. Then immediately following we sat with Enlow and he explained the findings. Addison has epilepsy, Tonic Seizures, he called it. While in the EEG (1 hour) she had 24 seizures. When they happen they go all over the brain and her muscles tighten everywhere for a few seconds. They are much more pronounced when she's tired or stressed. Right now as far as development she's advanced for her age, but left untreated the seizures could become much worse and inhibit her learning. Enlow has started her on a low dose of Kepra and will increase it gradually. We are to watch for any "aggressiveness" in her behavior as this is a side effect with a few children. The common side effects are sleepiness, dizziness, and upset stomach, but this medicine is usually the best tolerated and most common treatment.
Dr. Enlow has recommended that we see a Geneticist now that epilepsy has spread across family lines. They would be able to tell us if this is genetics, environment, or chemically produced; if this is something she could grow out of; and if the other kids have the potential for it.
We NEED EVERYONE'S prayers as this is pretty hard to deal with with two toddlers and a newborn already. Pray that this medicine works and pray that she grows out of it.

Thank You!
Ashley

4 comments:

secret sister said...

I will be praying harder for u guys. But on the bright side of things, your family has been thru it n( meaning mom and dad, steph) and we are well able to help u and encourage you guys. Keep me posted.
Love You guys.
Jess

sue said...

wow, that is alot to handle.. but with GOD's help and HIS healing hand you will be able to withstand the trials ahead... we will certainly be praying that the dr's and nurses, and you and dan would have the strength and knowledge to help her and that lil' addison will not lose that sweet nature during this.. hugs to you ash! love you
sue and shaun

lori said...

So sorry Ash:( You definitely have a lot on your plate!! We will be praying for Addison's health and healing and for your strength and peace of mind. I'm sure this is a very very hard time but God will carry you through. He is always faithful to us. He knows that you are scared and hurting. Just try and lay everything at His feet.

If there is anything at all that we can do please let us know! We will be here for you!!

Let Dan know that we are praying for you guys!!

Are you going to see a genetic counselor? If you go and it is a genetic issue will they be able to test Brixton right away so that you can be proactive in his treatment instead of just waiting for something to happen. I assume Trinity is out of the woods as she is older and hasn't had any problems? Gosh so much for you guys to think about...

We are here for you and Dan whenever you need us.

Love, Lori

Ashley said...

Thanks for all the prayers!