Terrified - MRI Tomorrow

April is turning out to be a busy month on the Bennett front. He has started occupational therapy, seen a new pediatrician, had his vision tested and is going for an MRI tomorrow. All of these things have scared me quite a bit. Here's an update:

Pediatrician: We wanted to see a different pediatrician because the first one was a bit heartless when delivering her diagnosis and then seemed too impatient to answer our questions. It was a half hour appt. that went from "take his socks off, look at him when you talk to him and don't use baby talk" (this was the first 20 minutes) to "oh - he has cerebral palsy - he probably will walk and talk but it will take longer - not until he's two or three - I'll refer him for therapy and an MRI and - I have no other information for you" (the last ten minutes).

Anyway, the new pediatrician didn't really tell us anything we didn't already know, but she was more compassionate and willing to take the time to answer our questions. She was also much nicer to Bennett and had toys in her office. Imagine - toys in a pediatrician's office! I don't think the first Dr. said more than a few words to Bennett and had one toy that I wouldn't have given my dog. In a way that's not a fair comparison as Bowser is quite pampered. Regardless, we were very happy that the second Dr. offered to take Bennett as a patient.

Vision Test: We decided to get Bennett's vision tested at the recommendation of our physiotherapist - just as a precautionary measure. I didn't really have any concerns about his vision but then again, what the hell do I know - I had no idea that my son had cerebral palsy. So much for my mother instinct! We went for the test last week - it went well and the optometrist doesn't have any concerns at this point. It was nice to have some good news.

MRI: This is a pretty standard test for kids with CP. It can rule out other problems and sometimes give more information as to the extent and type of brain injury. I have mixed feelings about this test. Mostly, I am terrified. I think it will be very hard to watch my baby be sedated and stuck in a big machine for an hour. Then, we have to hear the results in a couple weeks. That's even scarier! I don't think I'm ready to hear that the test shows extensive brain damage - but who is ever ready to hear that I guess. I just keep reminding myself, that the results are mostly irrelevant. Many kids with cp have significant brain damage and do very well while others with little damage are more severe. This test can't predict Bennett's future. No matter what Bennett will still be the same little boy and loved just as much. But it's still scary nonetheless, and I am TERRIFIED!

So, that's the update for now. Bennett has reached a new major milestone that we're very excited about! I'll post about that either tomorrow after the MRI or Wednesday. Hopefully, I'll have a video to put up.

In the meantime, can I ask for some good thoughts and prayers to be sent our way tomorrow?

Thanks.