May 2, 2009 ~ 7:58 p.m.3 weeks and a few days earlier than expected, our lil' man was born. There were some minor complications including decreased fetal movement and dipping in heart rate during contractions which caused the doctors to move on an emergency C-Section (both unrelated to the cleft lip and palate). While we were completely unprepared for the delivery to be that day (it's all kind of surreal to me now!), my husband and I were prepared for the steps to be taken in regards to the cleft lip and palate. So, I guess if I were to offer some advice, it would be to arm yourselves with information. I know how cheesy the phrase "Knowledge is Power" is, but it holds truth. As soon as our lil' guy was diagnosed (and after the colorful mixture of emotions that followed), I googled my way to any site that would offer information on the clefts - causes, treatments - anything. And through that and lots of discussion with my husband, we were able to better understand the deformity and make an educated decision on the treatment we desired for our son (more on the NAM later). This led us to meet with doctors prior to his birth and allowed for a very clear expectation of the process through which our lil' guy would endure.
Now, that knowledge did not erase the anxiety and fear that comes with knowing your child will have to suffer through procedures and surgeries...but it did allow for hope and understanding to lessen those cold emotions.
We also stayed close to friends and family and explained in detail the deformity and the procedures for repair. This was hard for me, I'll admit. I'm more of a private person (so writing this blog probably makes no sense to you) but... I did learn something from opening up to those close to me. Because our family and closest friends were informed, they were able to offer support - a hug, a pat on the back, a simple 'how're you doing"; and it made a world of difference for me. So...that is the reason, I guess, for writing this blog. Maybe only a few will read it, but if it can be a help for someone - even the tiniest help - or offer a bit of comfort and hope, then it's worth it. So... I'll be detailing my little man's journey from here on out and hopefully - Lord willing - in a year, he can be on his way to a full repair.
