Minnesota

We have spent this week at the University of Minnesota's International Adoption Clinic. Noah has seen the pediatrician, occupational therapist, endocrinologist, psychologist, and neuropsychologist. We are exhausted!

So far, they have ruled out Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Results are pending for growth hormone deficiency, other tests ordered by the endocrinologist, and the neuropsych testing.

The general consensus thus far is that Noah has difficulty integrating sensory stimuli. This manifests itself in undesirable and sometimes aggressive behaviors. One of our goals is to help him regulate sensory input and learn socially acceptable ways of relating to others.

We also had a bone age x-ray done. These results showed that Noah's bones are that of a 24 month old, not a 40 month old. The assumed reason is early malnutrition. This malnutrition along with his ventricular septal defect (heart) has led to impairment in brain functioning. Before his heart was repaired in China his brain may have not had enough oxygen both in utero and after birth.

We are overwhelmed with all that is before us. The doctors here have been wonderful and caring and so knowledgable. We are grateful for the opportunity to be here. Please pray for God's peace that passes all understanding for both of us. The implications before us are daunting. Thank you.