DC, school, etc.

The DC trip was informative. Basically, Ethan's paralysis is not typical. We met with several doctors while we were there and each sat with us and reviewed their ideas and the potential for reanimation. They are currently reviewing Ethan's case with other colleagues in the facial reanimation field before proposing an actual plan. They eluded that they may be able to give Ethan a smile and would probably start on the right since there is no movement there now. Yet, if that was successful, he would then have more asymmetry than he does now, since there is only mild movement on the left side of his face. Also, the type of surgery they could possibly give does not provide spontaneous movement for a smile. That is, he would have to mentally command the muscles in his face to create the smile. Thus, if they later go in on the left too he could maybe lose the spontaneous, natural movement there. I assumed a smile would also provide him with the ability to close his lips too, but they don't think it will provide him with that.

Surgery would require taking a strong, working muscle from his leg and transplanting it to his face. They ran some tests on the right side to see how much movement he had there and unfortunately they can no longer detect any temporal muscle, but did detect a weakened masseter. Visually, they could discern both muscles working on the left.

I'm not convinced at this point that a surgery is worth it. However, I've yet to hear back regarding their final recommendation. Maybe they will come up with something that will work for him. Additionally, they informed us about potential future surgeries; brow lifts, lid weights, and other procedures that may be of help in the future as gravity or lack of movement begins to cause drooping or dryness of the eyes.

Overall, I was reassured that Ethan's progress has been good and most of the doctors were impressed with how well Ethan has adapted to his disabilities. He has come up with clever sound substitutions and efficient adjustments to eating and drinking. I'm relieved the trip is over but very thankful to have had the opportunity to go and learn about the opportunities that may be available to him now and in the future.

Meanwhile, Ethan has been doing very well in school, attending all day. He got honors and received good citizen recognition this grading period! He misses his home school teacher very much, but is happy to have made some sweet, new kid friends. It's too bad he has to start all over again in just a month.

Ryan has been working hard in the field at BOLC and recently got a promotion to 1LT! I have been busy getting rid of unnecessary stuff - trying to lighten the load for our move at the end of the month. We're all getting anxious to go.

Uncle Cole split town shortly after we got back from DC. We miss him VERY much! We hope he settles in nicely to California and we"ll be sure to visit him a lot. Thank you, Dr. Pullfinger, for all your help. XOXOXO

Also, thank you to my mom who hopped a train to San Antonio last minute so that our trip to DC was a success. Love you!

That about sums it up.

Best to all! <3