against the odds

Today we visited the cardiologist again for another echocardiogram and also saw our regular OB. It was another day filled with lots of emotion but with even more hope. Madeline's echo of her little heart shows the VSD or hole like it did a month ago, but we were informed that IF she doesn't have other organ problems, a surgeon from Egleston at Emory can operate to repair the hole. This is typically done at 6 to 8 weeks after birth and it would prolong her life. Of course, we will not know if this is an option until Madeline is born and we can get a better understanding of other medical issues. Brian and I both feel good that we may have some options and it has given us a little hope to hold on to, even though we are very aware of the reality. The cardiologist said something to us today that really brought us a lot of comfort. He said, "As you know 90% of Trisomy 18 babies do not make it to their first birthday, but 10% do and I don't know any reason why you won't be one of those in the 10%"! We love his positive attitude and chose to believe in the miracle that God has already given us.

After reading an email from a family friend and getting a very touching card from a co-worker, we just know that God is working. We know that statistically, Madeline should not even be alive right now but because of all of the prayers, we feel like God continues to bless us. I remember about 2 months ago my doctor commenting that he was surprised that I was still pregnant and here we are at almost 33 weeks! God is good and we count each day as a blessing.

Please continue to pray that Madeline grows (She is about 3 pounds now!) and that we get to spend a lot of time with her. We also need prayer about all of the many decisions we will have to make in the future regarding her life. We are praying for God's direction and guidance. Please pray too!