Chronicles of Savanna

Hey all,

Here's the latest in the on-going Chronicles of Savanna. Yes, that's right - ongoing.

First, here's a recap to remind you as to where we are in this story:

1. Savanna, while always small for her age (below the charts for weight), her weight gain through her first year was consistently running in parallel with what would be expected.

2. Her Doctor carefully watched this weight progression with the following guidelines:
1. Even if Savanna is under weight, as long as she is progressing in parallel with the charts, all is well - relative to her.
2. If she dips below this parallel progression, due to her already low weight, she would assign Savanna to a pediatric weight specialist.

3. About 6 months ago, Savanna evidenced a significant drop in weight.

4. First visit to the specialist resulted only in a prescription to reduce water intake, replace it with whole milk (higher in calories/fat) and to supplement this milk with 2 packs of "Carnation Instant Breakfast" each day.

5. This regime was followed regularly for 6 weeks. Upon the second visit it was discovered that Savanna had grown in length, but had actually DROPPED in weight - after a higher calorie diet.

6. A few more visits resulted in an x-ray which revealed a stunning degree of constipation. Such constipation in children is not necessarily indicative of any serious issues, but when combined with the on-going weight issues, it seemed clear something must be causing the problems. Fortunately, these Doctors are very concerned not to press for invasive testing until absolutely necessary, so we went for several less invasive tests.

7. We cleared the constipation - confirmed through a Barium test. They took blood and found no issues with human growth hormone, iron levels or other indicators. We tested for cystic fibrosis, and it was returned negative. One test was performed for Hirschbrung's Disease. It wasn't a conclusive test, but is the only non-invasive one - negative as well. Prescription: now that constipation is lessoned, keep up the high calorie diet and see what happens.

That was about 2 months ago. Savanna had another visit this week. The verdict???

1. She has gained growth in length - again. She's low on the charts, but she is on the charts! Yeah!!!
2. After 2 more months, cleared of most constipation, with consistently high-calorie supplementation - Savanna gained. . .

Drum roll . . . .

4 ounces!

Clearly, not an encouraging finding. Yet, Savanna is completely healthy and wins the hearts of all the Doctors and staff with her smiling, playful personality.

At this point, the Doctors - specialists for 25 years in pediatric weight issues - just laughed with us and summarized, "Well, she really does still have us stumped doesn’t she!?!"

At this point, there are 2 directions to head:

1. Focused, invasive testing
2. Continued calorie supplementation

Since she is currently so healthy, the Doctors have opted for Option B. So, armed with a few new ways to stuff extra calories into our little Tinker Bell, we returned home.

We are endlessly thankful for your prayers and support. Savanna continues to warm our home with her personality and impress us with her development in all other areas - Amy's potty training her this week, with incredible success!

On Principle,

CBass

Update:

Amy's Grandfather Petersen handles a skilled pen. Here's a fun poem he dittied this afternoon:

Dear Christian and Amy,

"Tinker Bell" has a problem

Because she's not very big at all,

She's precious, sweet and cute

But, she is still not so very tall!

Of course being tall is OK

To this most folks will agree,

But what on earth is wrong

With being short, cute and wee?

It's personality that counts

That is something she's GOT!

So no one is deeply concerned

If a little, tall girl she is not.

We are so thakful for Savanna

We're discoverd she's very wise!

Being a happy, sweet little girl

Has nothing to do with size.

GIVE GGP PETESEN "5" SAVANNA!!!

-Grandpa P-