new mom of SB baby

Bre - posted on 04/07/2011 ( 3 moms have responded )

My son Parker was born with SB, Jan of this year. It was not detected during my pregnancy. We found out at birth and it was an absolute nightmare. My OB was mortified that he didnt see it and left once i was sewn up. The nurses in the OB dept. had never seen a baby with my sons condition and freaked out in front of us. They had no clue how to handle him or what was wrong with us. We just sat there crying wondering what was wrong with our baby. Soon though we found out, and he was transported to another hospital that was equipped to take care of him.
My husband and i lived in shock for a few days. We just could not absorb everything that was going on. We had no clue what to expect or hope for. We didnt know anything about Spina Bifida. The hospital he was transported to was amazing. The dr and nurses educated us on what was going on, and what to expect from our baby and his future.
Parker is an amazing little man. He had surgery to close his spine. He did not need a shunt, and we also learned that he would not need catheterized because he can eliminate his bladder fully. He has done soo well.
We see specialist for his club feet. He did the casting to correct that and now we have graduated to bar and shoes. Although im not sure how much better this is than the casts as far as convenience.
He is such a happy baby. My husband and i were so amazed at the support we received from our family. Everyone educated themselves to SB and was there for us in any way we needed support. The faclitiy i work for has been amazing. I work part time now, and they give me whatever time off i need for Dr apts. and they are always asking about the baby and how he is doing.
I am hopeful he will walk. None of the Dr. have said what they think. He can move his legs very well, and we have heard that is just wonderful and positive for his prognosis of walking.
It still is hard though, sometimes when i sit back and think about it all. I try not to feel sorry for him for this, because i realize it could be so much worse, and he is so blessed.
I am very anxious to chat with others that can tell me what to expect in the future....