We knew within days of returning that epilepsy surgery, the only currently known cure for epilepsy, might be our only option. Since then we have gone through a myriad of tests, procedures , and medications (and yes we know about the marijuana trials for epilepsy but Wyatt's seizure type is not one that responds to this treatment. We do, however completely support this, and any other research, that gives families in this situation relief from this condition.) to determine the best plan for our little man. Who really isn't that little anymore, he will be 12 next month!!!
Right now Wyatt is on a combination of medications to try and keep his seizures to a minimum. There is no growing out of them, and there is currently no medication on the market that will completely stop them. So what now?
Today Wyatt had a series of scans done to give the epileptologists and neurosurgeons a "map" of his brain and structures. We spent almost an hour talking, asking questions, and gathering information from our neurosurgeon at Children's, Dr Blount. Dr Blount explained to us that because Wyatt's seizures are medically resistant, if we aren't able to do surgery we can expect his quality of life to continue to decrease. Surgery is his best chance for a seizure-free life. There is a new technology in epilepsy surgery called SEEG. SEEG is mapping of the brain using depth electrodes that are placed by a type of GPS-like guided technology called ROSA. Dr Blount, and our epileptologist, Dr Goyal, both feel SEEG would be a good option for finding Wyatt's seizure focus...the area where his seizures originate. Once the focus is found, we can then determine wether surgery to remove this area is possible or not.
In the next few weeks Wyatt will undergo WADA testing to help determine his memory and speech areas of the brain. If this sounds familiar, it is because we tried this test before...and it didn't go well. Many changes have been made as to how the test will be administered this time so we are hopeful it will be more successful.
While we love and are confident in our doctors at Children's, we have prayed alot and have decided to contact the Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center this coming week to inquire about them reviewing Wyatt's case as well.
In the midst of all of this, Wes and I have been preparing to lead a team for two weeks to Uganda in June. We knew going into this planning that Wyatt's medical situation might prevent us from going, but because no one really knows when and if Wyatt's surgeries might happen, we do not want to tell God "no" when we hear him saying "go". Now, as always, it's up to Him to work it out! :)
We are so thankful to our amazing families and awesome friends that have supported us, prayed for us, and carried us through this journey. We need you now more than ever!
Some specific ways you can pray:
- First pray that we would keep our eyes focused on Jesus and that we would bring Him glory every step of this journey. Most days we fail miserably but we still want that to be our focus.
- Pray for the upcoming WADA test, that Wyatt would do wonderfully and that the doctors would get a clear result of exactly what they needed.
- This is kind of weird, but please pray that Wyatt's speech and memory are predominantly on the right side of his brain. If they are solely on the left side that drastically reduces Wyatt's chances for a successful surgery that doesn't affect his speech or memory long term. If they are on both sides, his chances for a favorable outcome are a little better. If they are only on the right they shouldn't be affected at all. It would be a miracle if they were solely on the right side, but that is what we are asking for!! :)
- Wyatt is very informed about all that is taking place. Please pray for his precious heart and that God would remove any stress or anxiety.
- Pray that sweet friends that would encourage and support him would come into his life. Because he has so many seizures at school, other students tend to either avoid or tease him. There are exceptions of course but this momma's heart would love it these exceptions were the norm! :)
This weekend Wyatt and I will be gong with Hunter Street's 5th & 6th Grade Choir on their weekend long mission trip. One of our key verses for this trip is from Isaiah 54:17. The kids will sing this as "no weapon formed against me will prosper". Right now the biggest weapon I feel we are under attack from is fear. We will be praying this verse for our family and so many others this week.
Much love.
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