Mitchell Update

Mitchell had a swallow study done today. It was found that he "aspirates" or gets some liquid in his lungs when he swallows formula/liquid. This is a result of his low tone and his not yet sitting unassisted. Typically when kids aspirate, there are chronic respiratory issues. However, Mitchell is generally well and rarely has the sniffles or congestion. He doesn't have a problem eating pureed food.

What now? Understandably we're nervous about giving him any formula, but because he's been so healthy, the team suggested we continue as-is because Mitchell needs the hydration. The test results are being shared with some of his doctors and we'll go from there. We already have a motor feeding session scheduled for Monday which will help give us some more direction as well. Worst case scenario is that he'll need a feeding tube in order to avoid long term lung damage or other issues. Yikes! Please keep him in your prayers and we'll post any new findings.

Otherwise, sleeping is still going well even though Mitchell is tending to get up very, very early. We've noticed improved head and neck control and his sight seems to be better too. He's been fitted for orthotics which should help with his feet positioning and weight bearing.

We are so thankful for everyone in our little Mitchell's eventful 1 year-long life, particularly his therapists he sees weekly or more and who really want the best for him, including Kirsten (his nanny who regularly works him out), Michelle (OT), Ashley (PT), Chris (EI), Anna (vision), Dr. Paul, Jeff, John, Gayle, Barry and the rest of the Baker Wellness gang.

Luke's Learnings

Luke is just over 2 1/2 and so fun to be around. He surprised us Easter Sunday when he found a way to reach the table's centerpiece which was 2 baskets filled with plastic eggs. He was moving the colored eggs between the baskets. When I asked him what he was doing, he looked at me and said, "organize". Mommy, with her bias towards organization, was extremely proud, but also realized that the journey of Luke learning through mimicking us and others verbally has begun. Careful what we say!

Besides organizing, cleaning and helping in the kitchen, Luke loves playing with any type of ball, chase and being outdoors. Grandma and Pop Pop gave him a new igloo fort which he finds fun too. He knows his colors and counts to 20! It's all happening so fast.

Mitchell's First Birthday

March 15 marked Mitchell's first birthday. We celebrated by inviting friends and family over for a special gathering. At the party, my parents gave a short talk about what the bible says about healing then we all prayed for Mitchell as a group. Guests had a chance to sign a memory book that our friend Cary made. Thanks to all those who came. It was such a perfect way to honor this child's life.

Oh, good news - Mitchell's been sleeping through the night. What a blessing! We were just thinking we didn't know how much longer we could go without continued rest. We're still not back to a normal routine, but the night-cycle sure is improving!

Time Away

Chris and I got to take a little break from things when on his award trip for work. On a 4 night cruise, we stopped at Key West and Atlantis in the Bahamas. Best of all, we had a chance to celebrate our 5 year wedding anniversary! We even missed the worst snow in years to hit Cincinnati. Of course, we couldn't wait to get back and see the boys. While there we got to see the popular Cincinnati-band, The Rusty Griswolds. Here's Chris enjoying the show, upturned collar and all.