October 19-Cleveland CLinic tests- 1 for 2....we'll take it

We went to Cleveland Clinic yesterday for a swallow study, echocardiogram, EKG and appointment with the cardiologist. Lexi's Echo, EKG and cardiology appointment went really well! Both of her narrowings are still "moderate" and "acceptable." So, the cardiologist does not want to see her back for 9 months! Lexi also had a major growth spurt since her last appointment so it is really encouraging that her narrowings have grown with her so well!

Unfortunately, Lexi did not pass her swallow study.....again. This is the 7th one she has failed. I was pretty certain she would pass, but she aspirated two times in 22 swallows. She IS making improvements however. The Speech Pathologist is going to allow us to give Lexi regular water between meals to start practicing with thin liquids and we'll will try again with another study in 6 months.

Finally, we have decided to go ahead and try Lexi at Blanchard Valley Preschool starting November 1st. It is crazy to think that our baby is going to preschool and I am having a REALLY tough time with it! But. with all of Lexi's appointments and therapies (she has TWELVE this week!), we are going to just put her in preschool two days a week. We are VERY concerned about her safety so please pray that things go well! Lexi grabs food and other objects very quickly and puts them in her mouth and then usually pukes, she tends to fall a lot as she is learning to walk, and we are concerned about her getting other children's drinks and aspirating. We are meeting with all the Blanchard Valley Therapists tomorrow to discuss our concerns and come up with a game plan. I'm thankful they are being so understanding and accommodating!

Lexi is making HUGE progress in speech and she is saying something new almost every day. She is so much fun and we are having a blast enjoying her upswing in progress! Thank you again for your interest and prayers for her! I am going to post a story that was written for the Blanchard Valley School News letter in the next post. It helps remind us of how far Lexi has really come. She turns three on next Friday, October 28th and we are so thankful for another wonderful year with our little miracle!