Lots of News!

Well, first of all, my dad is home. He has 4 infusions every day for 2 weeks and it sounds like he does it himself (I'm impressed!) He sees his primary doctor next week and then the cardiologist on the 18th for another echocardiogram. I think the doctors will re-assess the leakage from the aortic valve and make plans from there. So, we'd appreciate your continued prayers.

Sumana has had 2 VERY exciting days. Last night she was awarded The Clubber of the Month for November at her AWANA club. She was sooooo very proud. She has been working hard at learning Bible verses and completing various projects to complete her second Truth and Training book by the end of the school year.

Today she saw Dr. Hollister for her 11 year check up. Except for her poor vision, she's doing really well. (If you remember back to August, the eye doctor said that Sumana's optic nerve damage is such that her eye does not respond to correction). Anyway, the good news is that the growth she gained through the VEPTR surgery has gotten her closer to the 'normal' growth curve. She has always measured 4.5-6 'blocks' below the normal growth curve for girls her age. NOW, she is only 3.5 blocks below. An impressive improvement!

More good news (and a bit sad, too): Sumana has reached all of her goals for Occupational Therapy and has been discharged until her next surgery, (at which point we'll re-evaluate her need for any further OT). Mr. Darryl has worked really well with Sumana. He's had a balance of challenging her and teasing her that makes her work really hard. She can now lift a drinking glass and drink without her hand and arm shaking. She also can put on and take off long sleeved shirts independently. (She was not able to do these things after surgery). We are very grateful to Mr. Darryl for his attention to Sumana's weaknesses and his help in giving her the exercises she needed to regain her strength. Way to go Sumana and Mr. Darryl!