A Second Opinion

We're headed to the University of Alabama Children's Hospital next week to meet with their craniofaical team for a second opinion. The surgeon there has 13 years of experience and seems to be really great. We're hoping for some encouraging news, or at the very least, a clear direction for our next steps. My biggest concern is how this fistula (hole in the palate) will impact Caleb's speech.

Caleb has made some progress. He is sleeping in a toddler bed- yay! Naps are going well. Nighttime is rougher but it hasn't been too bad. He has been making some new sounds- he says "uh oh", "mmm, hmmm", and makes the "Mmmmm" sound when he pretends to eat with our play food. We also think he is trying to say "hi" and "bye". He's very happy to be eating pretty much whatever he wants again. We also said bye bye to the arm restraints.

He is having some attachment issues with Tom. If Tom is in the room, Caleb "demands" that he hold him. He will throw a huge tantrum if he doesn't. We are working on this slowly, but it is very, very painful and trying. Caleb also gets very overwhelmed by people, noise, and new situations so Chirstmas was difficult. I look forward to seeing how he progresses in the coming year. I am very hopeful, and when Caleb is comfortable, his personality is so sweet and charming. We think he's a little comedian too. I wish I could just reach into his big ol' soul and place the understanding that we are not going anywhere, that we love him, and that we will care for him in a loving way. But we will have to earn that trust.



Comments

Jerusha said…
Glad you're getting a second opinion. We understand the "I must be held or I will tantrum" thing! It's positive that he wants to be held, but not always realistic or possible. Good things ahead for us all in 2012. :)
January 5, 2012 at 3:00 PM
Sara said…
I hear you on how holidays affect these kiddos their first year home. K has a lot of anxiety and she dealt OK during the day w/ all the new people, but at night she was a terror! We are starting to try to get her back on track, but after cosleeping with us for 10 days in a 30 day period, she's not exactly thrilled to be back in her room alone, know what I mean? Good luck with your dr visit!
January 6, 2012 at 8:18 AM
Unknown said…
I'm having the same attachment issue with Lily. She's been home 7 months now and still demands that I hold her. When I'm busy, she will literally throw herself on the floor and scream. It gets old, but she will get better, and so will Caleb.
January 8, 2012 at 4:14 PM
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