In March Jason had his third hearing test which confirmed that his hearing is all good and his speech delays are not hearing related which was great news for us. We also did a barium swallow test - his first since his Nissan fundoplication operation which was done in 2008. The barium confirmed that he is not refluxing and is not at risk of aspirating.
In May we started seeing Jason's endocrinologist to test his hormone levels and also have testosterone injections to prepare him for his upcoming operation. The treatment went well and Jason received three injections over a period of 4 months.
In July we started intensive feeding therapy with Sarah. Something that has really helped Jason and been a huge part of Jason's eating progress. This was a decision Bruce and myself made knowing the costs involved and how the trust would be depleted but it was a very good decision that we made. Sarah has been absolutely amazing and fantastic with Jason. The sensory work she has done with Jason is not something we as parents could know about and attempt. You have to know what you are doing and Sarah has come into our lives and really changed our lives and helped Jason progress forward with eating and trusting food. She has worked really hard with Jason and next year we plan to continue with the feeding therapy to assist Jason further. We are so blessed to have Sarah come into our lives and assist us with Jason. It has been hard work and dedication on Sarah's behalf.
In October Jason ate his first ever meal in 7 years. This certainly was a highlight for us. Shu it's hard to explain unless you have had a child that doesn't eat as eating is just so normal to most of us. Well the pure excitement that I felt that day goes down in my history books. Jason ate a whole bowl of cottage pie. The hard work and determination of Bruce, myself, the school and Sarah has been paying off! The added feeding therapy has definitely helped us get there.
This year we had one fundraiser in May at the Barnyard and we have been blessed by monthly contributions by our monthly pledgers we call them. These funds have really helped pay for Jason's medical bills, his medication and his therapy. We would never have been able to afford to pay for all of his needs on our own. Next year we need to think of another fundraiser or two to assist us as the trust funds are depleted. We may have another Barnyard evening or golf day. If you wish to assist in any fundraising events, all help is welcome. It isn't easy raising funds for your own family. Please contact me if your would like to assist. To all of you that have helped us a huge thank you. Also thank you for your continued support and prayers for Jason. Prayer is powerful and with all of you keeping Jason and our family in your prayers, this really helps.
This year I started going to a lovely church just up the road from us. I have always been a believer thanks to my special mom giving us that grounding but with Jason's medical history I never got the chance or the time to go to church. Well this year I asked Jesus into my heart again and I have been going to church with Jason and Nicole. They are loving kids church and I am really enjoying being back at church. That Sunday fellowship has been amazing for me. My life has transformed and my faith has increased so much. With everything in life I see how God is with us every step of the way. He never leaves our side and he knows what we are going through. All things are possible through Christ our Lord.
So 2014 has been a good year for us. We have been really blessed with the right school, the right medication and doctors, the right therapists and team looking after Jason. We have seen him grow from strength to strength. We have had lots of positive tests results this year and also seen huge progress with Jason starting to eat, seeing his speech and communication improve hugely. Jason has grown up so much this year. He is no longer our little baby. He is our little boy. All years come with their difficulties and this year of course there were hospital admissions, concerns about his kidneys, there is an upcoming operation and tests that need to be done but all is good. We end off 2014 on a good note and continue to pray and trust God that 2015 will be just as good to us. God has been with us every step of the way.
To all of you thank you for following our journey, being with us, thank you for your donations, your prayers and well wishes. Our family are so blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives. Wishing you and your family a wonderful new years and a great 2015!
We have just finished with our final IVIG infusion for 2014 - 18th admission for the year. It's time to take my little man home and to enjoy the rest of our holiday.