Chicken Pox....or Something Else?

You tell me...

Can't get doctors to agree...one says folliculitis and the other says chicken pox.  All I really know is that Jace is one itchy little boy.  He is scratching all day, poor thing.  It started out on his back by the top of his pull-up.  I really thought it was bug bites; flea, bed bugs--who knows.  Then it traveled up the back to his chest.  From there to his neck and hair line.  He even had a blister on his tongue.  Now he is covered pretty much all over but it still seems mild to me-there aren't any other 'blisters' but they do scab over.  I am keeping him home just in case it is chicken pox and I am treating it likewise.

We are proceeding with the cochlear implant planning, but not sure where just yet because of insurance reasons.  I will keep you posted on the process.  We meet again with Hopkins for hearing aid testing (waste of time yet required by law), audio skills and speech next Tuesday.  Looking forward to it!!

xo,
Shannon

1st Day of School

Jace started preschool yesterday.  I was a little nervous that he would'nt go on the school bus without me-this wasn't the case as you can see from his smiling face.  I think because I signed to him ALL week that he was going to school, to see his teacher, Ms. Kristine.  His teacher sent me a picture of herself so that I could prepare him.  Great idea--it worked!

They told me he went right into the room and started to play.  They were pleasantly surprised at how many signs he actually knew and that he went along with all they did that morning. I'm quite sure he loved every minute of it.  The atmosphere in the classroom is one that is both fun and frustration free for these kids.  They all look like they love it.  The teachers have a passion for learning and for the needs of these children.  Now I just need to figure out how am I going to break it to Jace that he won't go to school on Thursdays and Fridays???

As for the cochlear situation, I am at a crossroad.  I want so much to go ahead with Hopkins.  However, I am told that after the first of the year, thanks to the new 'health care' laws-my insurance will change drastically and I may have to pay as much as 65% of the surgery.  That is both ridiculous and seemingly impossible since it is well over $40,000.  I may have to wait for Jace's medical access card (which covers the surgery) and use a different hospital in PA.  This hospital doesn't have much experience in cochlear implants, and I am petrified to send him there.  Please pray with me that I am led to whatever decision I am supposed to make!!

Quick Updates

Updates:

~We went to Johns Hopkins.  Drs say he is a perfect candidate for a cochlear implant.  Both ears, of course.  We have a lot of research to do regarding risks (which are minimal) of surgery, choosing a manufacturer, committing to a life change with numerous dr appointments, scheduling audiologists, psychologists, troubleshooting the device...the list goes on and on.

~Jace went to an orientation at his new school.  So far, he LOVES it.  Me too.  I like what I see.  I love the energy of the teacher and assistants.  Complete fun and learning without frustration, which is perfect for a 3 yr old.

~He starts school next Monday, October 25, and gets on a bus for the first time.  Mommy will be freaking out, but Jace will be fine.

~We continue to make huge progress in signing and comprehension of signs!!

~Here he is pictured signing 'breakfast'--the boys eats 6 eggs whites (with 1 yolk) every morning!!  And at the drs office this week.