MRI Results and Update

Thank you for your prayers for Daniel this summer as we have awaited the results of a second brain and spine MRI. We have felt comforted in knowing that you were joining with us in lifting Daniel up to our Heavenly Father.

A second MRI was done on August 15, and then yesterday (Thursday, Sept. 4) we traveled to Chicago for the follow-up appointment with the neurosurgeon. The appointment was slightly frustrating in that when we arrived at the hospital (after a three-hour drive in the pouring rain), we discovered that the disc from Daniel's first MRI had been misplaced, so the surgeon had to rely on his memory of the first MRI to compare the two tests. His assessment was that he was "fairly certain" that the syrinx (cyst) on Daniel's spinal cord had not changed since May and his recommendation was the we not rush into surgery at this time. We were understandably disappointed about the "missing" disc, and concerned at the doctor's lack of certainty. But the doctor assured us that he would compare the two tests as soon as the missing disc was located and call us if he had changed his opinion. (Note: we just received a call from his nurse saying that they did indeed find the disc shortly after we left, and the doctor, having comparing the two tests, still reports that there was no change in the cyst over the past 3 months.)

The syrinx on Daniel's spinal cord is still of concern and we will closely monitor his progress over the next few months, watching for symptoms of weakness, loss of muscle tone and control, or decreased mobility and/or stamina. If any of these symptoms develop we will of course follow-up immediately; however if no symptoms develop, a routine MRI will be done again in 6 - 12 months.

We are praising God that Daniel will not be facing surgery this fall! When the surgeon described to us exactly what corrective surgery would involve, we cringed at the thought of Daniel having to endure such a risky, invasive procedure. God has heard and answered our prayers for Daniel and has for now protected him from the trauma of surgery. Thank you again for joining with us in prayer!