God answered "Yes"

I'm back from a long, long break.  I guess I'm just waiting for something wonderful to happen, the answer to what we have been praying for several months now.  This is it... I am ready to share the big story!

It was one of those days when we felt so helpless. There was nothing we can do about the situation but to accept, pray about it and lift everything to God. Being helpless doesn't necessary mean that you will be hopeless, right?  This post is a bit long but it's worth reading until the end. [I tried to be not too emotional, promise ;)] God's love really moves in mysterious ways!

August of last year, I told my husband that I would like to bring Matt to his neurologist for a follow-up check up. This is in connection with his shunt (a surgically placed tube and valve system, which takes excess fluid from the brain to the abdomen) because of his Hydrocephalus due to Spina Bifida.  I do not observe any problem with Matt but I just wanted to make sure that the shunt is still in place (since Matt is already 13, there's a possibility that he has outgrown his shunt and now needs to be lengthened.)  It's been years since we last consulted his neurologist and I think it's about time to pay her a visit. To know more about Matt's medical condition, please check here.

Dr. Aida Salonga, one of the first doctors who attended to Matt right after his birth, was happy to see him again.  She is our favorite doctor who doesn't run out of encouraging words and stories to share with us. We usually spend at least 30 minutes whenever we consult with her.  After updating her with Matt's latest achievements and discussing our concerns, she suggested for him to undergo CT scan of the brain and Spine X-ray to check the current position of his shunt.

We went back to the hospital (Perpetual Hospital, Las Pinas) for the procedures on August 31. 

CT Scan and X-ray. Matt was very cooperative and we were able to go home right away.

The next image will show a CT scan image of a normal brain vs one with hydrocephalus.  The black area (2nd image) represents CSF (cerebral spinal fluid) build-up on the ventricles of the brain.That's exactly how his brain looked like when he was born in 1999.

Matt was shunted immediately after birth that is why the enlargement of his head was prevented.

We were in for a surprise when we came back to Dr. Salonga to show the results of the CT Scan.  Matt's hydrocephalus is back after almost 13 years! 

Impression: Obstructive Hydrocephalus

We CAN NOT believe that there's a water/fluid build-up in his brain! How can this be?  We have not observed any symptoms of hydrocephalus which are frequent vomiting, headache, irritability and/or tiredness, impaired vision, seizures and difficulty in waking up or staying awake. In fact, Matt has improved a lot in his performance in school and has become more independent this school year. He concentrates when given tasks in school and at home. 

At that time, I felt so confused, I was in the 'in-denial' stage.  I am with Matt most of the time except when he's in school,  I would have been the first one to notice the 'signs' but there's really none. Dr. Salonga advised us to consult Matt's neuro-surgeon, Dr. Norman Bitanga, the one who performed most of his surgeries. We went to him a few weeks later. He confirmed what we do not want to hear, that is, the shunt has malfunctioned (as to when we really don't know) and there's no other way to make it work again. But still, my question was not answered, in my mind, I'm still hoping that there is just something wrong with the result of the CT Scan and everything will turn out fine.  We were instructed to observe and do a repeat within 6 months.  If it will reveal the same result then there's a need for a surgery -- a placement of a new shunt on the other side of his head.  It was a sad day for me and my husband.  We can't bear to see our son go through that procedure again.

What is a Ventriculoperitoneal shunting?

• An area of hair on the child's head is shaved off. This may be behind the ear, or on the top or back of the head.
• The surgeon makes a cut in the shape of a horseshoe (U-shape) behind the ear. Another small surgical cut is made in the child's belly.
• A small hole is drilled in the skull. A small thin tube called a catheter is passed into a ventricle of the brain. This can be done with or without a computer as a guide. It can also be done with an endoscope that allows to see inside the ventricle.
• Another catheter is placed under the skin behind the ear and moved down the neck and chest, and usually into the belly area. Sometimes, it stops at the chest area. The doctor may make a small cut in the neck to help position it.
• A valve (fluid pump) is placed underneath the skin behind the ear. The valve is connected to both catheters. When extra pressure builds up around the brain, the valve opens, and excess fluid drains out of it into the belly or chest area. This helps decrease intracranial pressure.

We immediately informed the people who work with Matt everyday, his yaya and teachers.  We explained to them the situation and requested them to observe him all the time.  Any unusual behavior should be noted and reported to me asap. They were all concerned about Matt, we are very thankful!  Then, we asked for prayers from family members and close friends. It was hard for us to share what we are going through that time because I would always feel emotional whenever I narrate Matt's condition. Any parent would feel the same if he/she is in our shoes.

We also explained to Matt that there's water in his brain and that he should tell us if he feels something wrong. I would always ask if he has headache whenever I see him squint his eyes. I usually wake up in the middle of the night to check on him. He's aware that we will repeat the test after a few months and I told him we should always pray for God to remove the water from his brain and make his shunt work again.

I know in my heart, there is a miracle waiting to happen.  I am very sure of it! God loves Matt so much and I have no doubt about it. We just need to TRUST and OBEY.

Months passed quickly, Matt remained healthy except for occasional cough and colds because of his allergies. He continued to do well in school. He turned 13 last December 20th and we're very grateful that he was blessed again with another year. Our son is now a teenager!

Look at that handsome smile! He's all grown up now :)

Our feature story "My Little Miracle" in Smart Parenting Magazine also came out on his birth month.  It made me more assured that another miracle is on it's way to us soon.

Last March 1st (Friday) we decided to face the inevitable and bravely repeated the CT Scan.  I texted our Pastor and friends to pray for us. Again, Matt was so behaved! Scan lasted for 10 to 15 minutes only. He didn't want to be strapped for a long time.  Daddy Louie carried him to his wheelchair and Matt proudly told him several times, "Dad, the water is gone" and  he only stopped when Daddy replied with assurance, "Yes son, the water is gone."

The result was already available the following day but we opted to just get it the next Tuesday just before our scheduled appointment with Dra. Salonga. While my husband was parking the car (Matt's not with us) I went ahead to pick-up the result.  I prayed before I reached out inside the big envelope.  My heart was pounding so fast and my hands were shaking when I pulled out the film. I blinked several times to make sure I'm not dreaming (btw, my vision is still 20-20) while looking at the images.

Impression:  Near normal size of lateral ventricles with a functioning VP shunt in place

I was running to the Medical Arts Building. I can't wait to show it to my husband. Matt is right, God has taken the water away! He graciously answered our prayers.  He gave us a miracle!

When we were called by the secretary, I entered the room with a big smile and excitedly handed the films and results (both previous and latest) to our doctor.  My eyes were filled with tears when she clipped the films in the view box and confirmed that the shunt is indeed doing it's job of draining the CSF to his abdomen. She explained that this can happen but very very rarely, that is, at the time of the first scan there was a CSF build-up but it was eventually drained. She agreed it's a miracle!  One of the those she has witnessed for the past 30+ years of her medical practice. Wow, ang lakas talaga ni Matt ke Lord!

Exactly the same position/images of the brain (Top- Aug 2012, Bottom-March 2013)
The white line in some of the images is the shunt valve. 

Hydrocephalus patients have life-long dependence on their shunts and in Matt's case, since his spinal cord has been damaged, the CSF really has to pass through the shunt. Something amazing happened to his body and only God knows what it is. We are just thankful for this great blessing and to all the prayer partners.  All I know is, we BELIEVED and God answered "YES"! He healed our son once again!

Life is a journey of ups and downs.  We just have to make sure that we do not stay down for a long time.  We have our own battles and it's up to us how we are going to face and eventually overcome them.  Live one day at a time, don't rush, keep the faith. God is never late in answering our prayers. His timing is always perfect!

You are one of the greatest gifts we have!

Your little sister loves you very much, Kuya Matt!

 

Thanks for taking the time to read this.  Hope you were blessed :) Happy Summer!

A Blessed New Year to all!

Finally, I got some time to visit my blog and write a short post about the message I heard in church last Sunday.  It's about principles based on Jeremiah 29 in preparing for the new year.

Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV)

⁴ This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: ⁵ “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. ⁶ Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. ⁷ Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” ⁸ Yes, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. ⁹ They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the Lord.

¹⁰ This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. ¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ¹⁴ I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”

God's people was suffering terribly. They are praying for God to rescue them from exile and let them go back to their own land. But God answered in verses 5 to 7 to stay where they were and build houses, settle down and have family, increase in number then seek peace and prosperity in the city. They may not understand God's response but they were assured that ... God would fully restore His people and bring them out of their desperate situation, but He would not do it in the way any of them would have planned it.

Here are the Three Faith Principles to guide us facing the new year:

1. Learn to accept what you can not change because God is in control.  God's response to our prayers is not "yes" most the time, it's usually "no" or "wait."  But it does not mean He doesn't love nor care for us.  It's just that we must learn to wait upon Him and his great plans for us.

2. Learn to change what you can for this is obedience. Do not get frustrated if you do not get what you prayed for. Change you mindset and listen to what God is telling you. OBEY.  Do not forget to balance your prayer with wisdom.

3. Learn to live with testimony and impact. Life is measured by these two, Testimony (what people say about you) and Impact (what happens to them because you're there.)  Your presence should always bring something good to others.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Remember, do not misuse this verse, this refers to God's plans for us and not our plans for ourselves.

We are starting a new year, one thing is certain -- God's presence in our daily lives.  We have a big challenge this year specifically issues concerning Matt's medical condition. It's something that I can't help but "worry" about what will happen in the next few months.  (I might write about it next time.) But I already declared and claimed this ... God is sending a miracle for us and it will be revealed soon. We have entrusted this concern to Him for we know He is sovereignly in control.  

Turning 40

My birthday falls every third week of November  (23rd) which is very near Thanksgiving Day celebration. It always remind me to be grateful for all the blessings God has been showering me all these years.  There may be trials every now and then but I have learned (and still learning) to turn my burdens into blessings. 

This year is a milestone, I just turned 40!  

I am sharing a very special message from one of my closest friends who is now residing in the US.   She also turned 40 last August. 

Welcome to the club ;) ! I wish you a ton of cakes as beautiful as the ones you make, and blessings as numerous as the ones you bring to others. Stay beautiful my friend, because you are one good case where age is only a number. Wishing you good health, happiness, and new hope every day. Happy birthday!!!

These beautiful words really warmed my heart and brought tears to my eyes! She writes very well since our college days and I always feel good whenever she sends me notes of encouragement. These words came from the heart of someone who really knows me inside and out.  Thank you so much Mild!

I usually bake personalized cakes for loved ones and friends but this time I had my day off away from my mixer and oven.  I was surprised when a mommy friend baked me an Apple Pie.  She came all the way from Bacoor, Cavite to deliver it at home right after it came out of her oven. So sweet!

I received special birthday greetings thru texts, emails and private messages from family, relatives and friends who really truly remembered not necessarily because Facebook reminded them. My best friend Hazel even set her alarm at 12mn just to be the one to greet me on the first hour of my birthday. Thanks and God bless your hearts!

I am also treasuring a short but very special note from Matt's teacher aide.  I was touched by her thoughtfulness in her own small way and very honored when she mentioned that she always think of me whenever she reads Proverbs 31:8-31 (The Wife of Noble Character.)

I got lots of hugs and kisses from my kids.  Matt even announced in school that it's holiday last Friday because it's his mommy's birthday! My sweet Belle wanted to be closed to me the whole day but she's like this most of the time.  Hubby went home early with flowers and a birthday card with lots of "Thanks for the ..."  The exciting part is the last line that says "PS.  I don't know what to give you, pang-shopping na lang!" Hugs and kisses to these three wonderful people and  "Thank you" for completing my life. 

My day ended with a simple dinner with very, very close friends from church, our bible study group of almost 10 years.  We never fail to meet every Friday.  We've been through thick and thin and we're like paper and glue that will be forever attached to each other no matter what.   They are our family's JOY and CROWN (Philippians 4:1)! The people who gives us joy here on earth just like a prize or reward from God. We pick each other up when we fall and help each other to walk faithfully and fruitfully all the days of our lives. 

Birthday Sundae from CPK (my favorite resto)

Let me end my post with a poem by Victoria Sullivan.  I had to change some of the lines to make it very personal. 

Turning 40 

I just turned 40 and as I reflect on what my life has seen, 

I have accomplished quite a list; 

fulfilled most every wish. 

I have welcomed two beautiful kids who are my life, my loves, my joys.

A husband so loving, patient and kind.

What would I be without them in my life.

I've climbed mountains and run through streams,
but I'm not done chasing my dreams, 

going on adventures and trying new things.
 

I am teaching my kids what I've learned about life,
To share in their laughter and 

help them through times of strife.

I have a few wrinkles, my bodies seen more youthful days,
But all this shows that I have really lived 

and for me - that's ok.

Turning 40 is a gift, a gift some never live to receive
I will make the most of the next 40 years - 

that, my friends, you had better believe!

Kota Keluarga

This is another late post but still worth it.  Just want to remember our family getaway during the semestral break.  We always try to bring the kids somewhere (the beach if possible) so they can also enjoy their short vacation.  We usually go to Anvaya Cove in Morong, Bataan but I got very interested in this place when I saw pictures of my cousin's family spending a day trip in Kota Keluarga last summer.  It's two and a half hours away from Alabang, somewhere in Laiya, Batangas. 

Klub Keluarga Resort is part of Kota Keluarga. The Klub is the community’s precious gem in the treasure chest of Costa de Madera. It is the gateway to the panorama of a long coral beach line laced with crystal clear sea water.(Taken from their FB page)

As early as mid-October, I already booked our reservation for an overnight stay.  I also asked my sister-in-law if they would like to join us since their son (Alon) wishes to go to the beach too. Here are some photos sent to me by their staff which made them (my sis-in-law's family and my in-laws) decide immediately to come along.

Beach-front Cabanas

It can accommodate a family of 4

Entrance fee is P1200 for adults and P600 for kids & yayas which include buffet lunch, dinner and  breakfast and use of the resort facilities. I think the rates are reasonable and they served good food too!

Day 1 - Nov 2:   The kids woke up early (without complain) even if they were so tired the previous day.  We came home very late from my hometown Rizal, Laguna for our annual family get together. They also had a long day during the Trick or Treat last October 31. 

We arrived at the resort around 1:30pm.  It should have been earlier but we had to eat lunch somewhere in Ibaan since we're all hungry already and we don't know how long it will take us to reach our destination.

Finally!

Almost there! 4.5 km from the main gate

All set to run to the beach!

We haven't checked in but these two were so excited to feel the water.

It's Alon's first beach trip.  He was so trilled play with the sand.

The view from our cabana. We were blessed to have such beautiful weather.

Super bad news!  I got my period that day boo!

Snack time before swimming

The same nice place just like in the photos

Daddy also deserved this refreshing break! Too stressed at work lately.

The first day ended with a lovely dinner then we all went to bed early. It was a long day indeed! By the way, the cabana has no bathroom.  We have to walk a few meters away to go to the common CR and shower rooms.  This was a big problem for us especially my mother-in-law who needs to pee several times during the night. I was not able to sleep well but I was glad the kids had a good night sleep. And another thing, there's no signal in the resort unless you go up the cliff! Good news to those who doesn't want to be disturbed. Haha!

Day 2 Nov 3. It was 5:30am when I peeped outside and saw the beautiful view.  I can't wait for the sunrise. I just sat in front of the cabana in awe of God's wonderful creation.  I was holding the I-Pad and reading verses from the book of Psalms.  I was also taking pictures while the sun was rising slowing in front of me. It's not everyday that you see such an amazing view like this!

How peaceful! I was the only one awake at this time

Praise the Lord.

How good it is to sing praises to our God,
    how pleasant and fitting to praise him!

Psalm 147:1

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
    I will be exalted among the nations,
    I will be exalted in the earth.”

Psalm 46:10

 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever.

Psalm 136:1

 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
    for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
    for to you I entrust my life.

Psalm 143:8

I woke up Belle at 6:12 am, I don't want her to miss the beautiful sight.  She has to enjoy the remaining hours as we're going home right after we eat lunch.

 

with Ate Fe and Ate Jo, our very dependable and caring helpers

Breakfast time...

Swimming Time....

Matt with Lolo Dolfo and Lola Maring

More pictures while waiting for lunch

Group pictures before we leave...

Belle was holding the artwork she did with Alon and Tito Wayie

It was a bit hard for Matt to move around but I know he was very happy with this short trip. Thanks to our helpers. Belle? the pictures showed that she had a super duper enjoyable time. It was a great bonding time with the whole family. 'Til our next adventure!