We finally received our phone call from neurology on Monday. Not exactly the news we wanted to hear, but definitely better than it could have been. In their words, his MRI “is abnormal, but sooooo much better than we expected given his birth history.” James has two abnormalities in his brain. One is responsible for his developmental delays, and the other is causing his seizures. Both are common in premature birth, and both will have life-long implications.
We’re all staying focused on the positive, but this news did make me a little sad. The past few years in therapy all we’ve talked about is catching up. The goal has been getting James caught up to his peers before he starts school. With this news comes the reality that there is probably no magical catching up time for James. He works hard at everything, and he will have to keep working hard. Thank goodness he has a fighting spirit and doesn’t get knocked down by a challenge. These traits will serve him well for years to come.
We’ll take this information and learn from it. We’ll find more effective ways to help James, and we’ll keep fighting right along side him. He is the same amazing little munchkin he was before, who makes me smile and laugh every day. The only difference now is I’m even more thankful for every single thing he can do, and for the strength he has within himself to overcome any obstacle in his path. Fight on little man!
22w6d 
And fight on you will!!!! And James WILL succeed! In his own time, at his own pace. I believe it! You are wonderful parents. He is a wonderful child! Always praying for your beautiful family! Hugs and love and prayers for all of you!
Thank you Debbie. It has been a whirlwind these last few weeks. We’re still taking it all in and trying to figure things out. I know he is perfect exactly as he is, just wish he didn’t have to fight so hard. Thanks for your love and support. It means more to us than you know!
Keeping sweet James A., you and Andy in my prayers. God bless! ā¤
Thank you Mary Lou!
James’s story has inspired us. I’m a mum to a former 23wkr who is now two and a half. You’ve really put things into perspective – he’s a walking miracle, and lots of it due to his and your strength to carry on. Thank you for sharing your story.
Thank you so much. These former micros are truly amazing. Tiny heroes who are stronger than anyone can imagine!
I love this post and totally agree – if there’s one thing I appreciate about prematurity it’s that it reminds me to be grateful for every moment, and to never forget that my children are incredible, wonderful little people regardless of what their journey looks like. James is lucky to have a mama like you beside him, cheering him on š
Thanks so much Alana! You’re absolutely right. Their journeys can take us all over the place, but they remain the incredible little ones they’ve always been!