Today Noah had an extensive M.R.I to look at his brain, brain stem and his spinal cord. What they found was hard to swallow. The neurosurgeon briefly spoke to us beside Noah's bed about the results, then asked us to follow him to the consultation room. We have never been in that room before - only seen it in the movies. The experience was like being in a dream. We all sat down as the doctor formed his hand into a fist and said, "The tumor in your son's brain is this big. It has pushed the left side of his brain into the right side of his skull." Jessica and I sat speechless as he began to explain the game plan for treatment, extraction, and the risks involved. This tumor has been growing for some time but has taken a more aggressive turn in the last few weeks. This explains why he hasn't been able to walk straight, keep his balance, or use his right hand. The tumor is pressing against his brain in every direction. Thankfully it has not intruded into the brain stem, which is why they are taking such strict precautions to monitor him in the PICU. If his condition gets worse, they will do emergency surgery to relieve the pressure.
Currently, Noah is scheduled for surgery on Tuesday. We have no idea what time. Until then, they are giving him treatments of steroids and other medications to cause the tumor to stop growing and decrease the swelling of the brain. He is eating more ice cream than what is allowed by law - at this point we could care less about getting what we want in his stomach. If he asks for it, he gets it. : ) He can still use his left hand. He can hold his juice cup and play with our faces. We have laughed a lot, hugged more, and kissed constantly. As bad as this situation is, we have had some great quality time together. We have met some great hospital staff and really like his nurses and doctors. We know that God orchestrated his transport down here and preordained those who are caring for him. We are in awe of Gods perfect timing. We are so completely overwhelmed and humbled by the outpouring of love and support from our friends. Words cannot express what your prayers and love have meant to us. Monday is going to be a long day of waiting; Tuesday will be the hardest day of our life. We know God works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Noah is His. His life is in God's hands. We were reminded by good friends Saturday night that the disciples were in the boat in the storm and Jesus was asleep in the boat with them. He didn't bail out and had total faith to make it to the other side - so much so He took a nap during the worst part, when every one else was freaking out. In our storm - Jesus was in the Huntsville Hospital, the helicopter, the PICU and the consultation room. He will be in the O.R. as well. We aren't freaking out - but screaming at the storm "Peace be still!" More to come when we know - Thanks! John David Comments are closed.
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AuthorThese posts are written by Noah's parents Jessica & John David Crowe. The default author is Jess, and those written by John David will be noted. Archives
August 2014
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