BIG NEWS

It's not just BIG news, it's BIGGER than BIG news and quite possibly the turning point and moment of clarity we've been seeking.

Larry and I both went to the Neurosurgery appointment yesterday, anxiously awaiting the results from last week's MRI of Ari's lower spine.  Ari's Neurosurgeon has been involved in his care since birth and I have the same fondness and trust for him as I do for his Primary Surgeon and GI.  So, when his nurse practitioner came in and told us he would see us as soon as he's done reviewing the radiology report, our anxiety grew with every passing minute.  "What's taking so long?" we asked each other.

He walked into the room, asking some general questions about Ari's current condition.  When I transitioned the conversation to the MRI results, a huge smile spread across his face.  "Ari looks... perfect." He said with confidence, gazing over at Ari who was using the arm rests of the chair like gymnastic parrallel bars, lifting his body up, legs out in front of him in a pike position, flashing a goofy smile.  He was obviously proud of his accomplishment, but had no idea of the significance of the moment.  Laughing, the doctor repeated himself, shaking him head at Ari's antics.   "Absolutely perfect... the fluid filled mass and extra fatty tissue that I removed when he was an infant has not grown back and his spinal cord seems to be growing without any re-tethering."

Larry and were both thrilled and shocked at the same time.  We were prepared for the worst, but not best... an interesting realization.  "What about the difference in shoe size?" we asked.  "It's a result of his birth defects, but not indicative of any further problems.  It's just Ari."  He replied. 

His explanation made me smile, remembering Ari's answer every time we ask him what he wants to be when he grows up.  "Just Ari." Is always his reply.

Next, I asked a question I knew the answer to, just for clarity.  "What about sports?"  Dr. Brahma's answer was not what we expected.

He looked at Ari and requested that he walk across the room, which Ari did with swagger.  He hopped on one foot, then the other. Laughing once again, the doctor said something I will remember the rest of my life.

"Ari can do anything and play any sport.  He's not fragile.  Baseball, soccer, golf, tennis... even football.  Keep an eye on the smaller foot and make sure it doesn't start to curl up and I'll see you in a year."

Wow.  WOW!!  I looked at Larry and could see he was swallowing past the lump in his throat. 

Happy... proud... relieved.

We walked out in disbelief.  It so much more then we ever expected. With tears of joy in both of our eyes, we silently celebrated this monumental turn in our journey.

Airbrushed swagger- LOL!