Update on Sean's growth

As many of you know, Sean had some tests run at his two year check up to see if his bones were showing signs of growth. Between a bone scan/x-ray and blood work, we were hoping to find out if there is a problem, or if he's just our little man.

Last week we received a call that his blood work came back normal (other than being a little low in iron, but nothing to worry about there) and his x-rays all looked good (showed signs of his bones growing). Of course we were thrilled with this news!

This evening, I received a call from Sean's doctor. They received the last of his blood work test results back, and there was one marker that showed a little cause for concern - the IGF 1 growth hormone. A normal two year old should fall in the range of 45 - 222. Sean is at a 25, which is where a one year old should be. This means that he has what's called short stature growth hormone deficiency.

Per the instructions of Sean's doctor, the plan of attack is that in one month, we will have the test run again to make prove that it is a "reliable" test. Tomorrow, I will call to make an appointment with a pediatric endocrinologist at St. Louis Children's hospital. Apparently there is a four month waiting period to get in, so we're looking at sometime in March (hopefully). The doctor gave us the names of three doctors, and she said they are worth the drive - they are the best. Well, we of course want the best for Sean, so the distance is NO issue.

Once we meet with the specialist, we'll know a lot more of the plan. Based on the research I've done, it looks like we will have to administer a daily injection of growth hormone to Sean. Depending on how severe they determine his low level to be, will depend on when the injections start - but most research says when the child is 4 - 5 years old. Research also shows that he will be administered the shot until his bones are at the maturation age of 16. The shots are virtually pain-free (according to several websites), but very costly.

Of course this news is not what we wanted to hear, but we ARE grateful that he is otherwise healthy. Like the emotional Mommy I am, I have cried a lot about this and ask for prayers that all works out. I know that things could be SO much worse, but no Mommy (or Daddy) wants their child to have to experience anything bad. We appreciate your prayers for Sean that everything will work out in the way that God sees fit. I'll be sure to update the blog as we learn more. Thanks everyone...