As Jen and I drove across the state to Ann Arbor last night and to the hospital this morning, we could feel a wave of prayer and encouragement carrying us along. We are blessed to have heard from so many people joining us in caring for little Owen.
I could write a lot about our experience, but since it’s been a long 24 hours, here are the highlights:
- The professionals at Mott were amazing. They made us feel welcome and took time to answer all the questions we’ve built up over the past few days.
- We got a great look at Owen. The mass in his chest was measured very precisely. Since it was measured at a different facility last week and using a slightly different technique, it’s difficult to tell with certainty whether the size has changed in the past week. But now we have a great benchmark for gauging any changes going forward.
- Owen’s heart is healthy. (It feels really good to write that!) The ultrasound can be a little scary. Even with our limited experience, it’s not hard to tell the heart is pressed forward and to one side at this point. But the heartbeat is very strong. Our doctor reviewed his chest, abdomen, and head in detail. Thankfully she found no evidence of fluid buildup, which would indicate heart distress.
- Our boy’s CVR – a ratio measuring the size of the mass to his head – is still a concern. But it’s at the low end of what is considered problematic.
- Owen really loves to wiggle.
Jen is going to be checked twice a week in Ann Arbor through the end of the month. This will be a bit of driving, but it will allow our boy to be monitored closely. There are a variety of medical options available if Owen’s condition worsens. Our prayer is they won’t be necessary.
We are currently in our 24th week of pregnancy. Most CPAM masses stop growing by the 26th to 28th week. If we can make it through that period without Owen’s heart being impacted, our chances of a normal delivery without surgery before or immediately after go up significantly.
Thanks again for all of your prayer and concern. We have made each of our kids a stuffed animal at Build-a-Bear before they were born. Our whole family is off to the mall this evening to make a bear for Owen.
I’m so happy to hear you guys had a great appointment today–yay God for providing good medical care! Aaron, I really appreciate these updates. Thanks for sharing the details with all of us. It helps me pray specifically & I appreciate feeling like I get to be in on it with you guys.
So helpful to know the timing too–sounds like these next weeks are crucial. I’m praying hard for this young warrior (Owen is the perfect name for him!) Lord continue to give Owen a strong heart! Protect him and help him to beat all the odds for your glory. Praying for your travels too–that is a lot of driving, but totally worth it to get such great care for Owen. Lord please give the Kerr’s rest, hope, and peace right now.
Build-a-Bear sounds like a great family activity for tonight!
So much love to all of you <3 <3 <3
Will continue to keep all your family in my prayers. You have such wonderful children, I know Owen will love being part of your family.
A bear for Owen how awesome!! Prayers will continue for your family! Sounds like they were wonderful! Thanks for keeping us informed! I’m
Praying for you both & of course Baby Owen. God is still the great physician and we are asking for Him to intervene.
Aaron & Jen, just learning about little Owen today. Praise God for this encouraging visit! I am praying for you all right now.
Thank you God for placing these knowledgable and comforting Doctors in you life. Praying that Owen continues to grow strong. I so love his name! Thank you for you continued updates.
Blessings to baby Owen and to each member of your family. Know how much you are loved, and God is in control. We will continue to pray over you and Owen’s care as you continue this journey.
Thank you for this blog and sharing your personal story.
Peace be with you, with much love,