Hand Specialist Update...

Ryan and I recently met with a hand specialist and finally got some insight on Cade’s hand. As some of you may or may not know, Cade was born with a birth defect on his left hand. Due to what doctor’s think is Amniotic band syndrome, Cade is partially missing three fingers. Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS) is a congenital birth defect believed to be caused by entrapment of fetal parts (usually a limb or digits) in fibrous amniotic bands while in utero. In other words, before Cade was born his fingers were likely caught up and entangled in string-like bands, causing abnormalities that were present at birth. As you can imagine, this was heartbreaking for me as a new mom. After doing research and learning more about ABS, I realize that we are actually very lucky that only three fingers were affected (rather than a whole hand, or even arm). Even so, at times I’ve struggled with the thought of our little baby facing obstacles that may come his way, but Ryan has ensured me that we are going to raise a strong and confident little boy and that his is going to be just fine. In addition, the hand doctor seems very positive about Cade’s hand. Because Cade has partial bone in his three short digits he should have optimal function in his hand. Also, the doctor did present us with options (bone transplants, prosthetics, ect) available when he gets a little older. We are scheduled to meet with the doctor in five months to get additional x-rays and review the bone growth in the fingers. In the mean time, we are just so grateful to have a happy and healthy little boy that we love and adore!!