Rest for the Weary

We met with Samuel's neurologist today for the first time. She listened intently to our concerns, asked many questions, went over his MRI scans and results, and spent a great deal of time with us. She had a way of explaining things that brought rest to this weary mom.

She did not discount the fact that Samuel does have a 8 mm Chiari Malformation (CM), but she felt as though his headaches were triggered by anxiety and a sudden life change in January when they first began. At that time, Elias had a big surgery (adenoids and tonsils removed), I left my pre-K teaching job, and we began homeschooling.

After learning more about him and his history, the neurologist diagnosed Samuel with migraines. Many of his symptoms could be attributed to Chiari, but they are more so migraine-related due to stress and fear of being in pain. She said it isn't uncommon for patients with one neurological issue to end up with another, which happens to be the case for Samuel.

Right now, the neurologist believes we can treat many of his symptoms with a daily preventative. We are praying it helps and that he can both tolerate it and begin to rest well again.

We still have to meet with opthamology on May 12th to make sure his eyes are fine, but the neurologist said it shouldn't change her course of action. Until then, we will continue to monitor his symptoms, begin new medication, and wait patiently on the Lord.

Oh, but He's already here... I felt His presence today when I began to feel overwhelmed in describing all of Samuel's setbacks from fine motor skills, losing independence, and lack of sleep. I knew He was there when I began to cry explaining how difficult it had been lately to get Samuel to eat. I realized He was there when I asked if we could see Samuel's MRI scans...

and when I saw our sweet Samuel's button nose on that computer screen and the neurologist pointed to his Chiari, do you know what I saw?!

I saw the hand of God. It was so clear to me. That "malformation" was nothing like I had pictured in my mind. It's there, obviously, but it wasn't as overwhelming as I expected it to be. I felt peaceful sitting there today because I knew God was already there. I was finally ready to fall into His arms and let Him show Himself strong.