GI Issues

Things were going so well. For five months, we had no troubles at all. The gastroenterologist told us the ureter reimplanation surgery could possibly correct the retching and gagging Zane experienced. The urologist/surgeon said it wouldn’t. But from surgery until earlier this month, Zane had none of those symptoms at all. Now the retching is back. In full force. It happens at every feeding, and it is distressing to watch. There’s little we can to do ease Zane’s discomfort.

Today I took the boys to the pediatrician. This time, the appointment was not supposed to be about Zane; it was supposed to be for his brother. But medically, Zane always seems to take center stage. Back in October, the GI doctor said the next step for Zane is an endoscopy under sedation. But the pediatrician is less eager to take drastic measures with Zane. Instead, she wants to tweak things with him and see if we can get this retching under control. It has been extremely hot here (including inside the house, as we have no air conditioning). She wants to up Zane’s fluid intake by 12 ounces a day to see if dehydration is causing his problems. So we’ll start there and keep our fingers crossed for the best.

On a separate note, Zane is scheduled to have surgery for his ptosis at the end of July. He and I will have to stay in Denver for a week because of his one-week follow-up appointment. What fun!

Dental Time (Not to Be Confused with Hammer Time)

Zane visited the dentist yesterday for his six-month checkup. The people at that pediatric office are so sweet with him and very accommodating to his needs. Once again, I had forgotten to take the camera with me. I wish I had. He looked so big reclining in the big chair.

Zane loved having his teeth cleaned and was extremely cooperative with the hygienist—until she got to the flossing part. He pursed his lips, turned his head, and tried to wiggle off the chair. The child may not speak a word, but he definitely knows how to communicate. It took some effort on the hygienist’s part, but she managed to floss all of his teeth. Eventually.

He went away cavity-free for the third time in a row. Even the dentist commented on his brilliant and winning smile. He definitely knows how to melt hearts and dazzle people with that beautiful grin!

The Tooth Fairy

Yesterday Zane lost his first tooth. We knew it was coming. After all, he’s nearly 5 1/2. But also his dentist cautioned me about watching his bottom teeth since the gum line is receding. The problem is—there is no tooth to be found. No tooth to put under the pillow at night. We figure he must have swallowed it. Only Zane and the Tooth Fairy know what happened, and neither one of them is telling.

On a side note, Zane graduates from preschool tonight. Bet you didn’t know they have preschool graduation, did you? Actually, it’s a short musical program followed by the passing out of certificates and a BBQ. I’m taking the camera, of course.

Have a wonderful day!