Monday, June 28, 2010

What's next? - July 18, 2007

Jake got the sutures removed from his lip yesterday.  He looks fantastic!!!  See the pictures page for proof!!!  The doc said that when we go back to visit him in a month, he’ll take a look at Jake’s jaw and consider doing the jaw distraction. 

If we haven’t explained it already, Jake’s jaw is too far back thus causing his tongue to block his airway when he sleeps (probably when he’s awake too).  There’s a procedure they can do called a jaw distraction in which the jaw is reconfigured to allow more space for the tongue.  It’s another surgery with the potential for an exterior appliance for the duration of the distraction.  Given that it won’t necessarily be pleasant, we’d prefer to get this done sooner rather than later.  And, once it’s successfully completed, we can begin the process to remove the trach!  That’s the ultimate goal!

Next week Jake begins the process of serial casting on his legs.  This will be a weekly casting event to move his legs to a straighter and more relaxed position.  The ortho doc said he’ll start from the hips and work down with surgery on his clubfeet being one of the last things addressed - from the orthopedic perspective anyway. 

Between all of Jake’s therapies (physical, occupational, speech, and developmental) and the doctors appointments, the mom’s keep up a pretty crazy calendar!  All that being said, we’ve FINALLY sold our house!!!  As of August 31st, we’ll be moving to Palatine.  So, now we have to find a place to live out there.  We’re looking forward to a bigger house where Jake can have his own room and not have to share it with Betsy’s computer.  So, those of you in the Oak Park area looking to visit Jake without having to drive an extra 20 miles or so let us know when you can swing by for a visit!!!  We always love visitors and Jake like seeing new faces!!!

As always, thanks for all the good thoughts, wishes, prayers, and support.  It truly does take a village and we’ve got a great one to lean on! 
Grandpa Gates
Jake's smile comes shining thru!  Especially with the dinosaur.  I cannot wait to see him when we go house hunting this afternoon.  Jake and I will chill out in the Scion whie you look at new homes for him.

By the way, for those of us already in the Boondocks, this move puts you 20 miles closer.  So We can see him more and he can play with his cousins in Alqonquin.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007 - 09:49 AM
Nurse Sarah
King Jake looks fantastic! I am so excited to hear about his progress. Thank you so much for all the updates. Just look at that killer smile! Hopefully Kevin and I can make a visit before you guys move. Congrats on selling the house too!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007 - 10:12 AM
Mary & Leslie
Thank you so much for sharing the wonderful updates and pictures!  Whether it's in Oak Park or Palatine, we look forward to seeing Jake and Moms' soon!  Much love, hugs and kisses!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007 - 02:35 PM

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