The more that I have read and heard about CDH it seems that it is quite common for there to be complications with the heart as a result of the hernia. Many babies with this condition have varying degrees of heart trouble since the heart is typically deviated (shifted and rotated) because of the misplaced stomach. We do know that Clara's heart is deviated, but so far all of the reports on her heart have been positive. Her heartbeat always sounds strong, it looks okay on the level 2 ultrasounds, and when we had a fetal echocardiogram (another ultrasound that takes an extra close look at just the heart) at 19 weeks everything seemed okay. However, that was very early and she was very small at that point, so it was difficult to really see each valve and confirm that her heart is completely normal. Tomorrow, we go for a second fetal echocardiogram at 3:00. As so often before with this appointments, I feel some anxiety and worry about what we will find out. If her heart is still looking as good as strong as we think it is (and pray it is!) then we will be very encouraged that she will do a better job facing treatments and surgery after birth. If we find that there is something wrong with her heart, we will have time to further involve the pediatric cardiologists prior to delivery and know that her case will be more severe and complicated than we are hoping.
We ask for your prayers today and tomorrow, specifically for Clara's heart. Our hearts are already so full of love for her and we hope and pray that she can somehow sense that. Pray that her heart is complete and that all the valves and chambers are working the way they should. Pray that the sonographer and doctors will be able to get a good look at her heart to confirm this for us, even though it is deviated. Pray that God continues to heal her and make her whole, in His perfect loving way. Pray that we will have the peace and strength to hear whatever news we may get tomorrow and continue to glorify our God through it.
I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving. This will please the Lord more than an ox or a bull with horns and hoofs. When the humble see it they will be glad; you who seek God, let your hearts revive. For the Lord hears the needy and does not despise his own people who are prisoners. Psalm 69:30-33
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