Ryan's getting tubes

After almost 3 months of off and on and continual ear infections (otitis media) and 3 rounds of oral antibiotics plus a 3 day series of antibiotic injections, our pediatrician referred us to an ENT. We had an appt with ENT pediatric specialist, Dr. Palmer in Fort Worth last week. He has recommended bilaterial myringotomy (aka tubes) for Ryan in both ears.  I had really been unsure up until seeing the ENT about Ryan getting tubes and how nervous I would feel.  However, after speaking to him for all of the 5 minutes we had during Ryan's appointment (which we waited an hour past our appt time to see him...) I really felt very confident and that it was the right decision for Ryan. 

He explained that at this point the antibiotics are only clearing up the infection, but the "hardware" is still not working properly which is why fluid is staying back behind the ear drum and not draining out properly. By inserting the tubes it will allow proper drainage which will also allow him to hear better, be less cranky, and have better balance.  Mike and I had just mentioned to one another the week before how he seemed very off balance lately and would be walking and then either stumble over his own feet or seem almost dizzy and fall.  After talking to Dr. Palmer I wondered if this wasn't part of his problem.  I haven't been very concerned about Ryan's hearing because he responds to the smallest noises and has always been very sensitive to sound.  However, our Dr pointed out that his vocabulary may take off even more after surgery as he hears words more clearly. (Only time will tell) Other interesting facts were than boys are more likely to have tubes than girls and that it often times clusters in families. Mike also had tubes as a baby, so perhaps it was inevitable? Like father like son...

The purpose of this blog is to let you know that Ryan is getting the tubes on Thursday, February 24th in the morning at Cook Children's Hospital FW.  It will be an outpatient procedure and we will be assigned a time the day before, but likely early morning. While I feel very at ease at this time about the surgery and not nearly as anxious as I was for his surgery at 3 months old, we still covet your prayers.  Here are ways you can pray specifically:
- Knowledgeable surgeon, Dr. Palmer for steady hands as he performs the BMT
-Anesthesiologist to administer proper doses and help Ryan to be comfortable and feel no pain
-Quick and pain free recovery for Ryan and no lasting negative side effects
-Calmness and peace for Mike and I as we feel we are making the best choices for our son that we can with Dr's professional opinions.

Thank you! We sure love and appreciate all the support of our family and friends.
~Emily