Word of the day

vig·i·lant

 adjective \ˈvi-jə-lənt\

: carefully noticing problems or signs of danger

Full Definition of VIGILANT

:  alertly watchful especially to avoid danger

Test results are in, numbers look good, and hemoglobin is the same as it was two weeks ago at 15.3 but a new diagnosis/comment appeared on the test results in the RBC Comment area – Acanthocytosis.

“Acanthocytosis is a condition characterized by the presence of abnormally-shaped red blood cells called acanthocytes. Signs and symptoms more commonly reported include a history of chronic diarrhea with pale, foul-smelling, and bulky stools; loss of appetite and vomiting; and slow weight gain and decreased growth. Some individuals may have ataxia, tremors, and visual abnormalities; or jaundice, abdominal pain, pallor, dark urine, and recurrent infections. Although acanthocytosis has been associated with a number of both inherited and acquired conditions, it most commonly occurs with abetalipoproteinemia and hemolytic anemia of severe liver disease. Treatment for acanthocytosis depends on the underlying condition the affected individual has.”

Just another rare disease we'll add to our list. 

I can only remain vigilant; I’ll try to remember to occasionally monitor his urine and stools.  Typical for Austin it’s often difficult to identify if there is something going on.  Even as a young child he quickly learned what to do to possibly avoid doing things he didn’t want to do or as an out to get out of a situation that because of anxiety needed to escape from. An excuse to go to the bathroom or an “I’m gonna get sick” statement was quite common.  At this time I haven’t seen any signs or symptoms but I do believe I might need to be just a little more attentive.

The reference above to hemolytic anemia is just a reminder that even though his numbers look good we may not be out of the woods yet.  I do wonder if we will ever be out of the woods.  As the docs have repeatedly told me there is no crystal ball, they nor I can predict the future.

Next doctor’s appointment is June 16^th unless something drastically changes.

And on another note, I am so over the Spiderman glasses.  Everywhere we go he has them on – now that’s normal, mom being annoyed by how he obsesses over certain things. I've even tried joining him but it's just not working for me - LOL.  I think Natalie wears them best.