Bye-Bye Runny Nose

For any who've spent time with my little guy, it would come as no surprise that Gabe has a runny nose. In fact, he pretty much always has a runny nose. In his 3 years, he's suffered 11 ear infections that we know of. He's been on antibiotics and allergy medication and special vitamins...all to no avail.

On Friday, we learned why...

Gabe has enlarged adenoids and tonsils. He also needs tubes in both ears as the fluid that enters his middle ear is unable to drain properly. On January 6th, he'll undergo surgery to correct all these issues.

We learned on Friday that Gabe has minor hearing loss in his right ear and mild/severe hearing loss in his left ear. We don't know if it will be able to be regained.

So after over a year of specialist visits, pediatrician appointments and first-name basis relations with our pharmacy, we are grateful that we have something to pinpoint the problem and a manner in which to address it.

From all we've read and understand, it is a common procedure with a tremendous success rate, and we know that CHOP is one of the best in the country. He's still my baby, though. And I still can't think about the events of January 6th without starting to cry. I'm very glad Tim will be able to take time off from teaching so that we can face this day as a team.

God is so good and His grace provides for all. Wherever your heart and your thoughts take you, we'd be grateful for you to send some good ones our way on the first Wednesday of the New Year. Prayers for Gabriel and his doctors, prayers for a painless and quick recovery, prayers that his mom and dad will be able to provide all the love and support he will need - as well as the support they will need to give each other. Thank you!