Today, Darren and I had an appointment for Jaxon at Dr. Densmore's office. He is the doctor that will be doing Jax's surgery. Praise God that he is local. From what we were told on Monday, Dr. Densmore is the ONLY doctor in town that does this type of surgery and he was just recently transferred from California (trying to be thankful and focus on the positives). Before entering the medical office building, Darren and I prayed together in the car. We asked God to give us ears and comprehension beyond our normal ability. We asked God to help us to focus on what the doctor would say and to memorize his words so that we could be clear as to what is about to take place with our baby. Our doctor looked over Jax pretty intently. We found out a lot more today that we did on Monday. Today we learned:- Jax's inguinal hernia is actually a bi-lateral hernia, which means, he has TWO inguinal hernias vs. one.
- Jax also has an umbilical hernia.
Dr. Densmore said that the umbilical hernia does NOT have to be removed unless it gets much larger or unless it doesn't go away. Most umbilical hernias disappear. We know this to be true because Tyson had a HUGE umbilical hernia and it went away.
Dr. Densmore was very good at keeping things on laymond terms for us. He even had a white board and drew a diagram for us. We were well-informed. We felt like pre-med students. Basically, he explained to us that Jax will be getting a "bi-lateral inguinal REPAIR". Jax will receive two incisions on his lower abdomen. The doctor will go in and stitch the "hole". This hole is allowing Jax's small intestine to go into his groin. After the surgery, Jax will have to reside in the hospital for one day because he is considered a "preemie" being he was delivered at week 37. The recurrence rate of the hernias is 5%.
The reason behind the immediate surgery is because if "strangulation" occurs, one or both of Jax's testicles could "bottom out" or die. If both failed, he would be unable to produce sperm. He could also cause damage to his small intestine which would then create a whole other realm of problems.
We did learn that this diagnosis is fairly common. Dr. Densmore had already done two of the exact same surgeries earlier this week on little ones. Although it is "fairly common" it doesn't diminish our sadness for little Jax. We love him dearly and do not want to see him go through this, but we will lean on our Lord and Savior to keep us strong and positive, proving our Faith in Him.
Earlier, I was joking to a friend and said, "What next?!?" He said, "I'm pretty sure Jax has it covered physically!" I said, "No, not really! There is ONE other type of hernia that someone can get. Thankfully, he doesn't have it, but guess who does? HIS MOMMY!" During my 6 week postpartum visit yesterday, I was told I too have a hernia. Hopefully, I won't need surgery! :)
Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers. I LOVE ALL OF YOU who have already offered to watch Tyson and Lilah and help out wherever needed. Being we don't have much family locally, it's a blessing beyond measure to have our Family in Christ fill in the gaps. You all are AMAZING! I thank God for you all DAILY!
