The Story of Jacob: Day 1

Monday, February 1, 2010

Day 1

3 comments:

AnonymousFebruary 2, 2010 at 6:37 AM
HI Jacob,
Auntie Louise and Uncle Billy are so proud of you. Keep smiling. We have you and mom and dad and Matthew Jr. in our thoughts and prayers. See you this summer. love auntie.
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AnonymousFebruary 2, 2010 at 10:02 AM
Hi everyone, He looks great! What a beautiful family!! I loved the blog. The progress should be amazing. Thanks Shirley for the email. Love to all, Gail Shepherd
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Auntie BernardinaFebruary 4, 2010 at 7:39 AM
Hi Jacob:
I can't wait to see you! I keep you, Matthew Jr. and your Mom and Dad in my thoughts and prayers... Big hug and kisses.
Love,
Auntie Bernardina
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His Story

Jacob was diagnosed with Infantile Spasms on May 7, 2009, two days after we observed his first jacknife seizure. He was admitted to Hasbro Children's Hospital that afternoon to begin a course of treatment with ACTH. The next day, an MRI revealed the cause of the Infantile Spasms - a stroke in utero. Two-thirds of the left hemisphere of Jacob's brain was replaced by cerebrospinal fluid. We were discharged after four days and continued the ACTH treatment. After four weeks, the Infantile Spasms and hypsarrhythmia on his EEG were resolved but another seizure type emerged, complex partial epilepsy and myoclonic seizures.

Jacob was also diagnosed with right hemiparesis, a slight paralysis of the right side of his body. He made great strides walking independently but had limited functional use of his right hand. In February 2010, Jacob participated in the Constraint Therapy Program through Hasbro Children's Rehabilitation Center and participated again in August. The program involved intensive therapy with his right arm and hand. Jacob also received physical and occupational therapy and speech therapy through his Early Intervention Provider.

On December 22, 2010, Jacob underwent a left functional hemispherectomy, disconnecting the left hemisphere of his brain from the right hemisphere. Our hope was that he would be seizure-free and off of his anti-seizure medication.

Jacob did not have another seizure following his surgery and within nine months, he was weaned off of his anti-seizure medication.

Although early detection, aggressive treatment, intensive therapy, and self-advocacy have been essential to Jacob's rehabilitation, Jacob is blessed. He is an amazing surprise.

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Monday, February 1, 2010

Day 1

3 comments: