One Month Update

It's hard to believe it's been one month since we got back from Panama for Nolan's stem cell procedure! Time has sure flown by! It seems like just yesterday we sat at the kitchen table discussing whether or not we really want to take the leap and try this! I am here to tell you that we are so glad we did! As I've mentioned before, the trip had its challenges but the experience it self was great and we are so proud of Nolan and how well he did with everything!

The doctor told us not to expect to see much progress or changes from the stem cells until at least 3-4 months afterwards. It takes a while for the stem cells to get to where they need to go and do their work. She said it is possible to see small things after we get home, but it's okay if we don't. It's hard not to look for things too! Hunter and I have found moments where we look at each other with a look that says, "did you see that? are we imagining things?"

The only way I know to describe the change we have seen in Nolan is that he is more aware of his surroundings. He isn't in his world all the time like he used to be. He is more interested in what is going on around him and interacts with everyone more. He tries to say words we've never heard him say on his own. He points to his stuffed animal and says, "montey," then looks at me for confirmation. As soon as I say, "yes!! Thats a monkey Nolan good job!!" He gets excited! Before stem cells he never tried on his own to say new things! He interacts with people around him more and even points and says, Mama, Daddy, and Harper (although it sounds like Bubba but we will take it)!

At first we weren't sure if it was the stem cells but so many little things are adding up that there is no doubt they are working hard in his body! We are till keeping an open mind and praying big for them to continue to help him. Nolan is already such a happy kid, but we want him to have as big of a chance at life as possible! I've talked to other parents who say they see big changes in things like constipation and stomach issues from their first round of stem cells. This is something we are really hoping for!

If we continue to see positive effects over the next several months we will plan on going back to Panama in the Spring for another treatment. For now, we are taking it a day at a time and trusting that God sees the bigger picture and knows what's best! Thank you to everyone who has asked about Nolan and checked on him lately! The support and love we feel from other for our boy is overwhelming and means so much! More updates to come!