NO MORE HELMET!

After 4 helmets and 5 trips to San Antonio, TX in 11 months, we are done!

We just got back a few hours ago from our last trip to Texas. We knew about a week before we went that Elden did not have to wear his helmet anymore. So we have been celebrating ever since. We decided to go to Texas anyway for one last visit with Darren and Dr. Jimenez. It was confirmed that he did not have to wear his helmet anymore. Elden still has a few spots on his skull that are like divets – but the doctor assured us that there is bone under there and that it is ok. We couldn’t get a straight answer as to whether or not those areas would completely grow back. Aside from a few unanswered questions, Elden really had a remarkable transformation – check out the before and after pics. Of course, for us, the shape of his head was secondary to the healthy growth of his skull and brain.

With both kids being well the whole trip (Hallelujah!) we were also able to enjoy Sea World, the Children’s Museum, the Brackenridge Park Train and the River walk.

We decided to end our day at Sea World with the last Shamu show. I didn’t think we were sitting close enough, so I insisted that we move closer – which put us at the top of the “splash zone”. “No problem”, I thought, “its hot, we are all sweating, a little spray of water would feel good!” HA HA. This was one of those moments when you know God was looking down laughing.

Both whales came to our section, turned upside down, flipped their tails and shoved tons of water on us. I mean TONS. It was like someone with 50 gallon barrels of water just came in front of us and dumped it on us. All of us were completely soaked through our clothes of stingy, salty, Shamu water. The worst thing was that the kids were on our laps and got the brunt of it. So…they were screaming, we were laughing, and we left right away! They were such good sports about it and got over it quickly. I now have periodic moments of guilt for subjecting my three year old and one year old baby to that kind of splashing, but really, I think it was a bonding experience for us all.

So that’s the end of the story for now. We will probably go back every other year or so for follow-up appointments – and that is mostly for the doctor’s to track Elden’s case. It is possible that Elden could have headaches or pressure later in life – we’ll see and pray for God to give him mercy and grace. Thanks for joining us on our journey. Thank you for your prayers and support. We give ALL the glory to God, He led us to San Antonio and helped us with our struggles throughout this past year. He has a good plan for Elden, and for all of us.

Anyone out there experiencing craniosynostosis? Email us anytime.