Update on JT

Jake and I just wanted to give you an update on JT. He is now (actually) 8mos old (adjusted age of 6mos). Overall he is doing well. We have begun to see some developmental delays and have been extremely concerned with his vision.
The delays we are seeing are due partially to his vision and partially to the CP. JT still doesn't really reach out for toys or objects yet. The Neurologist believes that yes, part of that is due to his vision problems, but that it also has to do with the fact that when he reaches out for a toy his arms tighten up. That is the CP. We will just continue to do his exercises and stretches. We will also rely heavily on the knowledge of his physical therapist to help us get over this hump and help JT learn and enjoy playing with objects.
As far as JT's vision goes, our Ophthalmologist believes that surgery is in his future but deferred to his neurologist for advice. Today we saw JT's neurologist. She said that premies and especially premies with brain damage often have vision problems beginning around 4mos of age. This is about when JT's eyes began to cross. She then proceeded to tell us how amazing the brain is and that right now his brain is working on correcting his vision all on it's own. Justin's brain knows it isn't seeing correctly so the brain is working on correcting it. She said that by 10mos old to about 14mos his eyes (or brain really) should correct themselves. She also said if they don't then he will need surgery. But the bottom line right now is that we need to do some eye exercises and do what we can to help him and his vision. We are going to begin to see the pediatric ophthalmologist at Children's hospital as soon as possible. Our ophthalmologist, although wonderful and kind, doesn't seem to have the experience that we need for JT.

For those of you who have continued to pray for us we are so thankful! We continue to believe that God is listening to all of your prayers and petitions. Please join us in the following prayers.
Please pray that JT's brain and eyes will work together and the problem will fix itself.
Pray that JT's arm exercises will work and he will begin to reach for toys and objects.
Pray that we can get an appointment to see the Ophthalmologist at Childrens and for his wisdom
Thank God for Dr. Chang, our neurologist. For her wisdom and for her bedside manner. She is truly a blessing to us!

We love you all and are so blessed by you. Thank you for all the love and support you give us. We thank God for you!!

With love and gratitude,
Jake and Melissa