Growing in Faith

So where do I start. I've contemplated writing on this topic multiple times but always tell myself that it can wait. Partly because of fear and wondering if it is important at all. What Ive realized recently is that it is and I believe God has a purpose in this story. Through this experience I've come to know Jesus like never before. Another thing I learned is to trust in something far greater than my personal strength or of anyone else. I share this primarily to glorify how God has worked and continues to work in my life.

Exactly 5 months ago today I was in early stages of labor. It was an intense day filled with disappointment because I was progressing enough and wasn't far along enough in my labor to be admitted in to the hospital. Little did I know that I was about to face more confusion, pain, and disappointment. At exactly 5:21pm Travis was born. I felt such relief and happiness because this long grueling process of labor was over. He was perfect and we nursed for a bit. The nurses took him off to finish checking the typical baby stats.

Well about 30 mins after the pediatrician comes into the room. She begins to explain to me that my baby was born without a condition called imperforate anus, which meant he was born without an anal opening. I was in shock and then began to cry. All these thoughts began rushing into my head. She said I'm sorry and walked out. I was heartbroken and confused. I wondered what would happen to Travis. Would he survive? I questioned all these what ifs.

That night he was transferred to The Children's Hospital of the Kings Daughters, also known as CHKD. Its probably the best in the area and of that I am grateful. Well once he arrived they completed multiple scans, xrays, and tests. We later noticed he was also born with an extra finger on his right hand and a spinal x-ray found that he had a tethered spinal cord. We called every few hours to see how he was doing and the doctors always said he was doing well.

This entire time although we were tired and scared, we entered in fervent prayer. I was discharged the next day and the doctor informed us that the scans showed the corrective surgery for his anal opening was fairly simple. Praise God! That was the best news we had heard.

Well surgery followed through very successfully and Travis was doing well. Hes been pooping tons ever since haha. Doctors are so pleased with his continual growth and development. He is even above on some milestones. The genetic testing that came back was negative and so they were all happy about that as well. Now all we are awaiting is an MRI next month and we're believing for healing of his tethered spinal cord. We've been seeing a Neurologist who has been closely monitoring his development. We are all very hopeful. Other than that he is doing wonderful and super healthy.

Despite this difficult circumstance God has been so good and faithful to us. We ask that you pray for Travis and our family as we continue on this journey.