Medical updates

Dylan is doing VERY well since his heart surgery. His heart surgery in July was considered a big success but there is still a hole in his heart that they were not quite able to fix. Dylan also has a deformed mitral valve. Because of these factors, there is the possibility of more heart surgery in the future. If heart surgery is needed, it will most likely be for a valve replacement but hopefully not too soon. We monitor his heart through many, many doctor's check-ups and by taking trips to Seattle's Children's Hospital where he undergoes x-rays, echocardiograms, ekg's, etc. Our last visit went great and our cardiologist informed us that since Dylan is doing so well, our trips will soon be reduced to just once a year.

There is some concern about Dylan's ears as well. As with many children who have Down syndrome, Dylan has very small ear canals making him prone to ear infections and some hearing loss. His left ear is particularly small so we do foresee tubes in the near future. But surprisingly, Dylan has only had one very minor ear infection so far! It was so minor that we didn't even need antibiotics! Phew.

But heart issues aside, Dylan has had a miraculous recovery. I can't describe the difference the heart surgery has made in our lives! Dylan was very pale, non-responsive, and medically frail prior to his surgery. Post surgery, Dylan is making up for lost time and with pizzaz! He is very active, quite loving, and just an incredible kid! We can't be more thankful to those at Seattle's Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center for all that they have done for our Dylan! We are also very thankful to Dr. Filuk and our favorite nurse, Becky! They are our primary care physician and nurse here in Bellingham!



Here is a recent picture!~ Enjoy