Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Better Than Expected

Today we had a "routine" prenatal appointment. My OB and I both chuckle everytime she marks that on her sheet because nothing about this pregnancy seems routine.

Not many details to share... boring things like my blood pressure looks good, and the fact I gained six pounds in five weeks (seriously?!?!). Then there are the not so boring things, like the little man's heartbeat being found right away and it beating healthfully in the 150's.

We talked about the perinatologist's report from a few weeks ago and she was delighted to see in the report that so far the brain looks good and that there are no signs of neural tube defects. I also mentioned to her that the hygroma had shrunk and she seemed glad to hear that. She mentioned that "this isn't good..." referring to the omphalocele, but we already knew that.

What was encouraging was to hear her saying at the beginning of the appointment, "You guys are taking a real leap of faith here, and we want to support you in any way we can." Then, after our discussion of the perinatologist's report, she said, "This all looks a lot better than I expected it to."

You could have picked my jaw up off the floor. Of course, there wasn't any new information to speak of. But, she was surprised... surprised that what she is reading is better than she originally thought.

That's God at work!

I told her, "Well, we've been praying, and maybe those prayers are really working!" She politely smiled, nodded, and said, "Mmmhmmm." I don't know where this doctor stands with any of that. But I knew it was God at work, and knew that He deserves the praise for the good things that are happening (even in the midst of some ugly, not so good things). Would you pray for her that she would recognize that, too?

God is a God who delivers the "better than expected." There's a great promise in Jeremiah 29:11 when God declares to prosper us and not to harm us, and promises to give us a hope and a future.

So, would you pray with us that next week we would be fortunate enough to hear those same words from the other doctors with whom we meet? That things look "better than expected," and that our little boy is free of any heart defects, issues with his lungs or any other major organs, and that despite the omphalocele, he is continuing to grow healthy and strong? Would you pray that Spencer and I would remain joyful in hope, and for a bright future with our little guy... however long that may be? And would you pray for the grace for Spencer and I to handle what we hear that day with courage and peace in our hearts?

10 comments:

The Writer Chic said...

Stacy, I've been praying for you all day. Praise the Lord for a great "normal" appt. God is truly at work already through the life of your little man. Keep it up, mommy -- you're doing great.

Lauren said...

Yea!

Kristin (kekis) said...

How you can stay strong and faithful for your baby, speak His word to all of us, pray for others, and witness to others -- that is all beyond me. Seriously.

I am amazed by your patience, strength and faithfulness. I know you have to do it for your son and for Spencer, but I could only hope that I could do half as well if I were in your shoes.

As always, prayers are ongoing and extra ones coming next week.

Jenn said...

I will be praying and btw, I love the promise in Jeremiah 29:11 =)

Sheila said...

Lots of continued prayers for you, Jeremy, your little one and especially your doctors!

Suzanne@the best kind to have said...

I've been following your blog through SAL. I just wanted to let you know that I am and have been and will be praying for you, your husband and your sweet baby boy. Your faith and your strength are inspiring. I have also latched on lately to Jeremiah 29:11, such an awesome promise.

Kirsten said...

Praise God!!! He is faithful. You are such a witness of His power, glory and love. Your light is shining and is making your son, your husband and God proud of his beautiful princess! We'll keep praying.

Blessings,
Kirsten

Amanda said...

There's definitely power in prayer and I pray that you and Spencer will continue to witness through actions to all you've come in contact with.

Still praying for you all.

Anonymous said...

I continue to pray that your sweet little boy is growing strong and healthy and is being healed by God.

You have also asked for us to pray that you and Spencer will have the peace to allow God to work his will in your life. I read an article today and saw this website mentioned and thought about that. I will still pray that you never need this information.

http://www.perinatalhospice.org

B Family Life said...

I remember a while back seeing you on the nest. With the recent loss of our baby due to an early miscarriage, I have not been able to sleep. I began surfing through old posts from the Loss board. I am so happy that I came across your post and read it and then checked out your blog. You strength is so inspiring. God bless you, your husband, and your little fighter. My prayers will be with you!