June 2007

June 9, 2007 (morning)
Dad: We made it to Birmingham this week to see how Ashleigh's blood pressure is doing. It's overall the same. It's not getting any worse which is good. So for now, we're staying on the same medicine at the same dosage. The dosage naturally decreases as she gains weight and grows, so the plan is to go back in about 4 months and check it again. If the status is the same and the dosage (compared to her weight) is minimal we may be able to get rid of it. If not, they'll likely increase it a bit. They also want to repeat the VCUG to check her urinary reflux. We are hoping that she will grow out of it. For stage 3 (the severity of reflux) It seems some kids do and some don't.

She still has an ear infection, so back on antibiotics we go. It's frustrating that we can't really treat it any other way at the moment. With the number of ear infections she's had, her pediatrician is suggesting tubes. We'll make an appointment with the same ENT that did her trach surgery and get his thoughts. I have a feeling her left ear will fall outside the realm of normal because it is so small. I'm not sure any physician has ever been able to see her eardrum on that side.

Her bottom started breaking down pretty bad this past Monday/Tuesday, but it is a bit better now. Unfortunately she's back on antibiotics again so we'll have to watch it carefully.

Ashleigh also got her one year shots this week too. Those are always fun.

It's been a very busy week. Ashleigh's done pretty well through it all - especially for all the traveling she's had to do.

Next weel we head back to Birmingham to se her pulmonologist.

Thank you so much for your continued thoughts and prayers.

Birthday photos are up!

June 4, 2007 (morning)
Dad: Ashleigh's birthday party went really well. A huge thank you to Hunter Hills Church and to our friends and family who helped prepare and clean up. I think Ashleigh really enjoyed herself. That may only be the third time she's been around quite so many people. She was ready to party apparently!

For those of you who attended, thank you so much and I hope you had a good time! Looking forward to more milestone peaks and parties!

I'll try to get photos from the party up real soon.

In the mean time, please visit this website. This is another vent child - Copeland - in our hometown. His parents are trying to garner the attention of the TV show Extreme Home Makeover. Copeland's story is quite incredible. But what may hit you harder is that on Copeland's first birthday (while in the hospital) their insurance company suspended Copeland's in-patient coverage. We have thus far been fortunate enough to not face that - but I can tell you from watching Ashleigh's statements endlessly whiz by my eyes - they need your help! You can sign a petition or email the Extreme Home Makeover crew directly (from Copeland's website). The deadline is June 15th!

Thank you again for sharing in the life of Ashleigh. Thinking of her. Praying for her. Endlessly. I'm not great at expressing myself sometimes (just ask Michelle!), but I really, really, really am appreciative. It took everything I had at Ashleigh's party to keep from breaking down in tears as I looked around and saw the faces of people that have helped us (emotionally and in every other way) through this past year. Seeing the smiles on Ashleigh's face hopefully made it worth it for everyone!