Johnathan Update

For our friends and family with whom we haven't gotten to talk yet, we have an update about little Mr. Johnathan, who has had some gross motor delays since before he learned to crawl. Our pediatrician refered him to a pediatric orthopedist this summer, when we asked for input on his toe-walking on his right foot. The orthopedics office then refered him to a pediatric neurologist.

After a long wait, we finally had his appointment this week in Austin. The doctor listened to his history, thoroughly looked at his reflexes and watched him walk and run. He noted Johnathan's leg length discrepancy (his right leg appears shorter than his left), the way Johnathan holds his right arm when he walks, and his apparent left-handedness. His initial thoughts are that Johnathan likely has hemiparetic (affecting one side of the body) cerebral palsy, causing a tightening of his heel cord on the right side.

The next step for Johnathan is an MRI to confirm the area of his brain on the left hemisphere that was injured either before birth or at the time of his birth. He will also see the pediatric orthopedic specialist next to determine the best course of action to help him walk flat - that may involve surgery, physical therapy, and orthotics.

We are now waiting to find out when our next trip to Austin will be, when we will hopefully be able to complete the MRI, follow-up with the neurologist, and see the orthopedic specialist, as well. We so appreciate the prayers and love our family, friends, and church family have shared with us! We'll keep you updated as we learn more.