God’s hand on Nathalie

Bear with me as I ramble a bit about God’s hand in Nathalie’s situation. Although Nathalie was not scheduled to return to the doctor until age 9 we asked for a check-up because she was in pain. Today we had the appointment with Dr. Johnston of Scottish Rite hospital. He initially told us to use a cane (which we purchased and decorated beautifully) and to return in July 2015. As he walked out the door he said, “maybe we should get a bone-age test done today.” This was not on the original agenda but for whatever reason he did it anyway. This test the child’s physical age vs chronological age. A couple hours later we received a call from his nurse saying that the radiologist had reviewed the bone test and that Nathalie’s physical age is much greater than her chronological age, making her be a prime candidate for stunting the growth of the longer leg. Brenda wrestled with the suddenness of this for several hours and ask if we could call the doctor with question in the morning. About 30 minutes later (at 7:00 at night) the nurse called. The doctor had reviewed the test and wanted to remove the growth plates in two spots, instead of one. The hope and prayer is that this will eliminate the need of the bone lengthening surgery (HUGE praise here) or at least drastically reduce the amount of lengthening required. Brenda was also able to ask the doctor questions and get clarification. This is a serous surgery but not very invasive and with a very quick recovery rate. Nathalie will be walking around by the end of the week. We are hopeful that this surgery will be successful and there will be no need for other surgeries. In case you missed God in all that let me spell this out…

1.) The doctor randomly did a bone test that is not part of the normal testing

2.) If we had come before or after this time in her growth pattern then this surgery would not be possible. This is the only time that this surgery can be done with the success rate that is expected.

3.) It is possible that this surgery will be effective enough to eliminate other surgeries (this was not thought possible prior).

4.) Just when Brenda needed to hear back from the doctor, they called.

5.) They are able to fit in this surgery next week so a return trip is not needed.

6.) I also (just happen) to be here to be with my dad during his heart procedure.

Thanks for everyone’s prayers. Her surgery will be on Thursday so please keep praying!