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Monday, February 22, 2010

Not what we wanted to hear

We had a very long and good visit with Dr. Carol Shields today who is the “world’s best” in eye cancers. After about 6 hours of testing, examinations and evaluations, she concurs with the doctor at Emory and recommends removal of the eye. She said a few things that gave me a sense of comfort and assurance in this decision. One is that the eye is not causing her any pain right now, but it won’t be that way for long. Clearly we do not want our girl in any pain. Another thing is that there is nothing they can do to remove the tumor and with it being there, even if it is not malignant and does not spread, she will never have more than about 10% vision in the eye. She said the left eye is in excellent condition and she can see me (and others) just like any other baby. We were initially concerned about the cosmetic appearance of the eye and without removing the eye, the appearance is bad. A prosthetic eye will look better than her eye in its present state. She added that Kitt will be fine and that the only thing that will be broken is our hearts as parents.

We are still trying to decide when/where we will have the surgery done. We really would like for the lady here to do it, but she wants it done in no more than 2 weeks but cannot get Kitt on her schedule that quickly. The alternative is the doctor at Emory who we know already has it scheduled for a week from tomorrow (March 2). We are hoping Dr. Shields can somehow squeeze her in but it would involve another trip up here next week (if she can get us in).

Thank you for your continued prayers. Although my head totally confirms this decision and knows it is what must happen, my heart is screaming something else.

9 comments:

  1. Brittany, we are praying for you guys. Asking for His grace to overwhelm you and trusting that Kitt is completely in His care. Love you, Beth

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  2. Brittany, I've been crazy busy at work and hadn't had a chance to check in on you guys for several days, so I'm only just catching up on the news. I can only imagine the fear and heartache you're experiencing right now. Please know that as always, you are ALL in my prayers. May God ease your fears and comfort you all in this incredibly difficult time.

    Kitt is and always will be a beautiful, beautiful girl.

    Much love, and many prayers
    Barbara

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  3. Oh Brit, I'm so sorry. My heart aches with you. Know that you, Joe, Kitt, and Garet are all in my prayers. Peace and love, Erin

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  4. We don't know each other but I know barbara and we've been holding you all in our prayers. I've been following your journey for awhile and it's been amazing to see how the girls have grown. Hugs and prayers to you.

    Heather

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  5. Hi, Brittany -- Nedra and I have been following the latest news of the girls especially Kitt as you face this unimaginable situation. We will continue to pray for Kitt and you all, and trust that you are in the hands of the Great Physician. Hugs to you all -- Rebecca

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  6. Brittany, I don't know you, but I am a friend of Lori Crowe's mother. She has asked us to pray for you and baby Kitt (and actually Garret too since before they were born). I have been praying, and will continue to do so. As a mother, I can only imagine how difficult this time is for you. Please know you and Kitt are covered in prayer.

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  7. You do not know me, but I am praying for you as many other Cornelia FBC members are doing.Remember, its not the things that happen in our lives, but the manner in which we cope with them. God is always present if we allow Him to be. In Christ, Lil Reed

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  8. Hello Brittany,

    My sister Sarah forwarded me your blog and asked that I pray for little Kitt. I somewhat can identify with your fear of how she may look. My youngest son was born 10 months ago with a severe cleft lip and palate. He has undergone 3 surgeries already and there is no pain like seeing your child in pain. I will pray that through all of this God will be glorified and that every person who comes in contact with Kitt and your family will see Jesus. "It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was in order that the works of God might be displayed in him." John 9:3 This verse has really helped me stay focused on our journey with Les and I hope it helps you on your journey with Kitt.

    God bless,
    Leah

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  9. Hey Brittany - it's Christina Powell, from IAPOMC. I just found your blog; your babies are just little angels!!! Please know that my family and the IAPOMC family are thinking about all of you and we are here to help you in any way possible. Stay positive and find comfort knowing you have options and your little ones are in no pain. Big hug from all of us...and you know that is a lot of arms and even more prayers headed your way!

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