Monday, March 29, 2010

The 20 Week Ultrasound...



I never knew that going to an ultrasound could be such a frightening experience until today, nevertheless I am thankful that such technology allows us to prepare ourselves for the difficult time that appears to be ahead.

After the ultrasound technician was not satisfied with what she could see regarding the baby's heart she suggested it might be good to have the doctor take a look. We moved to a new room and met the doctor as he began to study the baby's heart to see if there was anything to be concerned about. Any explanation that begins..."The problem with your baby's heart..." is bound to put a lump in your throat, but we gathered our wits to be able to process the explanation that we received and I will try to summarize for you.

Our little girl (yes it's a girl) has a heart defect. The initial diagnosis is that it is either critical pulmonary stenosis (more likely) or pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (possibly). Either way it will require a procedure immediately after birth. Only time will tell whether the condition will be treatable with a catharization or require a more extensive surgery. We will return to the doctor after our vacation and he hopes to be able to see better exactly what the situation is.

If you have questions, we have few answers beyond the explanation above. It was unsettling and scary to hear and we have a lot to figure out leading up to the baby's birth in August. If you are reading this we desire that you would pray for the baby's health and for our peace of mind as we travel these next months with this burden on our hearts.

Even with the news it has been hard to stem the excitement we have from seeing the baby's face and finding out it is a girl. She most certainly has two little sisters who hope to smother her with love and attention and two parents who she already knows how to make nervous.

10 comments:

Nancy Fauth said...

Annie and Colby, we are sorry to hear this news but are already praying. We hope the visiting friends will be able to comfort and pray with you. We wish we could be there. Another pretty Garman girl, what a blessing. We already have some sunglasses and some books (to borrow) for you. If you want or need something else, let us know.
love, the Fauths

Anonymous said...

How exciting, another adorable little Garman to add to the mix! We will keep you and your little one in our thoughts and prayers over here in SoCal.

*hugs*

Marisa and Jón

Ryan and Dorothy said...

I am praying for you all!

Austin said...

Praying for you brother & I will have those around me do the same. Love all 5 of you and if you need you know where I am.

His Glory

Austin

Hendrix Family Journey said...

i am praying, what can i send via bill?

Unknown said...

Elsku, elsku Colby, Annie og stelpur!
I'm so sorry about the heartcondition, I'm praying that God will use this to show his power.
But very exciting to have another girl! I hope you will stay in Iceland long enough for her and Björgvin to play togeather :)

Mikko Sivonen said...

Thank you for sharing! Look forward seeing you guys in Spain!

Scott and Pip said...

Garman Family, How wonderful for this little girl to have you all waiting for her - to love her and care for her... some would decide to end her little life... but, God gave her to you.
We will be praying for God's will in this. And that you will feel His love and comfort while you wait to see what He has in store for you.
We love you.
It is nice to have your Mom and Dad back.

Anonymous said...

Hi Annie,

I just found your blog and wanted to let you know how excited we are for you guys, but also, that we will be praying for your little sweetheart and each of you.

Blessings,
Stacie and Aaron Bray

Audra said...

Garmans, So sorry to hear about this news! But, praise God that you can be prepared for it. What a blessing another little girl will bring to your home. Praying that things go smoothly leading up to and after her birth :) Audra