It felt a little strange to be going to Gabriel’s 3 year well child exam today. Was it really worth it? We knew he wasn’t “well”. At the same we wanted to be sure his regular doctor was up to speed on all that has transpired.
Turned out to be an AWESOME visit. First let me say we love our family doctor. He has an incredible bedside manner, really takes time and listens. He is also an avid researcher, learner, teacher. We always leave a visit to his office feeling cared for and knowing something new.
The doctor took lots of notes, asked lots of questions and listened as we gave him the quick rundown of the seizures and medications. Then he looked both Chuck and I in the eye and asked “Now, how are Mom and Dad doing?” We have been very blessed with great medical professionals throughout this journey, but this is the first time a doctor has truly asked how we are doing. (Not that we felt the other doctors should have, they were treating our child, not us.) He chatted with us, gave us encouraging words, as well as, some simple wisdom, then wrapped up the “seizure” part of our visit.
G had fun playing with the doctor and whizzed through all of his developmental checks and general medical checks. He was full of energy, being a silly and a little ornery. I made a comment about how the medication seems to be making him a little hyper and more active then usual, even though the side effects warn of possible drowsiness. The doctor commented “I think that is great. I see him acting like a 3 year old boy”. The doctor followed that comment with something to the effect of…maybe his has been in a slight haze until now and this medicine is letting all of him shine. WOW! A whole new perspective on this extra energy I have been annoyed with. Gonna be a learning curve for Mommy but we will figure it out. (HA! didn’t mean to go back to the blog name….clearly we say it a lot around here!)
Kelli said:
I’m so glad you started this blog! We’ve been praying for Gabriel. I’m glad to know he’s in good spirits and has lots of energy. Keep the faith and lean on the wonderful support system you have in your family and friends. Owen and Isaac are anxious to see G and Lydia for Easter. We’ll see you in a few weeks. Please let us know if there’s anything way we can help.
Jessica said:
I love how your doctor took care of you all and gave you some good perspective. What a blessing! I love your “Figuring it Out” name, that is such a positive way to look at life 🙂 Thank you for sharing!
Brian Slezak said:
Yeah I’ll side with the doc on that. If he’s been a little terror or onry or energetic he is right on track. Paul seemed to change around 2 months shy of his 3rd birthday. It was a dramatic shift. The good news despite everything else you’re dealing with is — he is a 3 year old. Keeping you guys in regular prayer.
Anna Grabrian said:
What an awesome doc! And such a lovely perspective! Has to be a comforting thought, to know that G can really shine through in the midst of all this trial. Praying for the meds to be just right, and for G to be who he is meant to be.