He also was pleased that the MAD (Modified Adkins Diet) I have her on has seemed to decrease her seizure activity. I have literally eliminated all of the bad carbs/sugars that the Keto Nutritionist requested I do, as hard as that was and continues to be. But I honestly can say that I feel it has made a huge impact in Raquel's health. The last seizure she had, I truly feel was due to her inadvertently consuming some foods and drinks she wasn't supposed to have. Dr. Mower felt that it wasn't a coincidence either and wants me to continue what I'm doing diet wise.
Then there was music to my ears: Dr. Mower said we could start reducing medication. I am so happy!!! Of course it will be a gradual thing - only 1/2 a pill a day less right now (she currently takes two anti-convulsants totalling 4 1/2 pills) - and then we will see how she responds. Could be few days or a couple weeks to really tell if she can tolerate the reduced meds but if she can, and I think she can, we will continue the weaning process. Just being to the point right now where we are even talking about this makes all the diet sacrifices and challenges well worth it.
I do have one bit of sad news ... our treasured Dr. Mower is moving to Northern California so today was our last visit with him. So bittersweet. I can't even begin to describe my emotions. Raquel has been under his care for three really difficult years. We've had countless visits, ER trips, hospital stays, tests, tests, and more tests under his care. He has made himself so readily available to me - through phone calls, emails, hospital check ups, etc. I always felt as though Raquel was his only patient, even though I knew that was never the case. He is just that great of a doctor.
He told me to keep being strong, to keep doing what I know is best for Raquel, and to stand up to anyone who thinks different. By that he meant new doctors, therapists, teachers, school districts, etc., not to cave in and do what they say if I don't feel it's right for her. I'll continue to make him proud. He's taught me so much, and I'll continue to grow from his guidance.
He also had really kind words to say to Gabby. You have to realize that Gabby has maybe missed two or three appointments during this process as well, so he knows her more than most and has watched her grow and mature. He praised and praised her for what a great big sister she is, how compassionate she is, and to keep on doing that. She was teary all the way to the parking lot, but so was I. When we got to the car, she put on her earphones and started listening to music. After about 20 minutes, she stopped and said: "Mom, I know we're really sad but it's okay. We had him for 3 years and now other kids just need him more." And she is absolutely correct.
Introducing Dr. Andrew Mower. I told him I was doing this so it's okay that I publish his picture. Hats off to a truly amazing pediatric neurologist. He will be genuinely missed.
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