Not easy, this being parents lark. In Japan, newborn babies and their mums have a checkup after 1 month to make sure all is fine and dandy ( I think it is after 6 weeks in the UK). We went for the check last week, where the doctor discovered an 'irregularity' in Rosie's heart. We were referred to another doctor, who Megumi and Rosie went to see on Friday. He took a look, had a listen, and confirmed what the first doctor had said - basically 'something's not quite right there'. He then referred us to a heart specialist at the main city hospital.
We went today, and found out that Rosie has a small hole in her heart. Basically, it sounds frightening, but in most cases, these things heal themselves, and it is possible to live a long and healthy life, even with the hole untouched. This reality, however, does not stop one worrying. We have to go back again in April, and try not to worry too much between now and then...
Posted by Gary at January 14, 2004 05:47 PM"and it is possible to live a long and healthy life"
sure is, and I am living proof. Doctors found out I had the same problem when I was born, the called it a hole in my heart same as you did and when I got older i heard the term heart murmor a lot. I remember spending time at toronto's hospital for sick kids when I was 4 or 5 years old for treatment but it was nothing too serious. I can understand what it might feel like to think your daughter has something wrong inside her but let me assure you if her situation is anything like mine you have nothing to worry about. also my diagnosis was 20 years ago so i would imagine there have been huge improvements in treating this type of disorder.
Posted by: mark at January 15, 2004 08:08 AMSorry to hear about the trouble, Gary, but the doctor is right in saying that this may be minor. ASD and VSD often take care of themselves, and there are various options to take care of it.
Best of luck with it.
Posted by: nils at January 16, 2004 09:49 AMGary - I'm so sorry you heard that news. As you say, it may only be minor and heal itself but you can't stop worrying. Whether your child has asthma, is partially deaf, or whatever - its your job to worry! Hope everything goes OK.
Kinki.
Posted by: Kinki at January 18, 2004 07:07 AM