Henry's Kidneys

Surgery.

That is the verdict. 

We have known since way back in December that kidney surgery was a likely possibility. I know many have hoped and prayed that it would not be the case (especially my kids) -- but I knew, in my gut, it would be necessary. The verdict was a little sad, but I was prepared for this news. 

Immediately after finding out about his complication (back before he was born), the Spirit whispered to me, "It will be hard, but it will be OK." I shed a few tears for Henry back then, while driving the winding roads home from the hospital. But now, I am just going through the motions. If he needs medicine, I give him medicine. If he has a doctor's appointment, or a visit to the hospital, I take him. If he has a procedure, or ultrasound, I hold his hand through it. 

It is just life. 

You just do what you gotta do. 

One day at a time. 

Henry was tested for kidney reflux on Friday. They did an ultrasound and X-Rays and ran dye through his system to test for reflux (pee going the wrong way back from the bladder into the kidneys). I watched the X-Ray results on a screen in a separate room. He is refluxing. Not good. 

So, for the next year Henry will be taking a daily antibiotic to fight off infection and scarring in his kidneys. He will have additional ultrasounds in a few months, and we need to watch him carefully for infection. When he is one year old he will be big enough for the surgery, and they will go in and repair his broken plumbing. The incision will be a few inches below his belly-button. It will be an eventful time, this time, next year. Poor kid. 

 My main concern is for his comfort. I asked the doctor if the refluxing hurts him and she said they don't know. After the surgery all should be well, as long as it goes well. (It should.) He will need follow-up for a year or so, and then he should be good to go. 

Looks like our little Henry Indiana Jones is going to have an adventure! 

He will whip this thing. I know it. :-)