2.02.2011
An Update And Hiatus
6.14.2010
Johns Hopkins Appointment Update
Dr. Dietz requested that we have Luke genetically tested for Marfan Syndrome because Luke exhibits so many of the characteristics of the disorder. Dr. Dietz does not want to make an inaccurate decision as to whether or not Luke has a check up every year versus every two years. He said Luke is “growing into his aneurysm.” Dr. Dietz said he has seen this before, but because of Luke’s symptoms his aneurysm could change at any time. Dr. Dietz stressed to us that we should not consider Luke to be out of the woods yet.
We will not find out the genetic testing results for several weeks. In the meantime, Luke is still on the waiting list for the surgery on his sternum at the Houston Shriners Hospital.
I appreciate all of you and the support you have shown to our family and to The Luke Pier Foundation,
Vikki
3.28.2010
Shriner's Hospital Evaluation
The following is an update on Luke's appointment at the Houston, Texas Shriner's Hospital for Children:
Luke has pectus excavatum (sunken chest). Many people live with this, never needing surgery. In the past year, Luke’s chest has become increasingly worse and now affects his breathing and causes pain. Dr. Dietz, the doctor that monitors his heart at the Johns Hopkins genetic clinic, referred Luke to a thoracic doctor in order to correct the pectus excavatum.
After being examined at the thoracic doctor’s office we were informed that Luke’s pectus excavatum was severe and he needed corrective surgery. We were sent home to have Luke’s CT scan, pulmonary heart function test performed and to raise the needed funds for the surgery.
We immediately began brainstorming the most effective ways to raise the funds needed for this surgery. In the meantime, I also applied to the
Not every
Instead, the procedure Luke will have performed will open him across the front, going under muscle to realign his ribs and straighten the sternum in the process. The "normal" patient with this type of surgery typically has 3 ribs realigned, but again Luke's case is "unique" and requires the realignment of approximately 5 ribs. Luke will also have approximately 2 plates to hold everything in place. His surgeon expects a successful surgery that will improve Luke's quality of life.
Luke will be scheduled for surgery in a few months and we will be sure to keep you updated on his progress.
Thank you!
3.11.2010
Quick Update on Luke
We do have a quick update to share at this time, though. Luke is being evaluated by the Shriner's Hospital on March 18th. We are uncertain what the future holds because Shriners Hospitals for Children initially denied Luke. We are excited that they have reconsidered due to the slow growth of his aneurysm. March 18th is the first step to begin the evaluation process.
We have a few prayer requests:
- Please pray that the Shriner's Hospital will agree to perform Luke's Nuss procedure.
- Please pray for the Pier family as we grieve the loss of Noah, our hero.
- Please pray that 2010 will be a great year for The Luke Pier Foundation as we continue our mission: "to provide funding for life-saving scientific research focusing on, but not limited to, connective tissue disorders. We are also committed to help provide funding and encouragement to individuals for medical treatment they may not otherwise receive due to limited resources or lack of health insurance."
We will update you as soon as we know more! Thank you for your support!