When sorrows like sea billows roll...

I heard a lot of scary words today. A lot more took place during Grant's first neurological appointment than I expected. After reviewing all of his paperwork (the Watkin's Center faxed over a whole stack of medical reports and evaluations), asking many questions, and performing a couple of simple exams, the doctor had some theories. None of them good. I am still processing the information and am emotionally worn out so I am going to just list out what was spoken.

Possible causes for Grant's developmental delays:

• brain improperly formed during development in the womb
• low or no oxygen for too long during labor
• a stroke that could have taken place shortly after birth
• PDD-NOS
• Fragile X Syndrome
• some other genetic disorder

Tests that will be conducted over the next couple of months:

• genetic testing: a Fragile X DNA Test and Chromosomal Microarray (I am taking Grant to Levine Children's Hospital tomorrow to get the blood work done for this)
• a sleep deprivation EEG
• an eye test (to peek at the brain behind the eyes)
• an MRI
• another psychological evaluation

Please continue to pray for us. This news has been difficult to hear - and we are just beginning.

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

It is well with my soul.

from the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul"

by Horatio G. Spafford