Today, Len had a cardiology appointment. On the way home, mom did a happy dance and Len took a nap.

Today was a check-up on how Len's heart is doing, specifically we wanted to look at the right side of his heart wall and the pulmonary valve. Last time, it looked like Len's heart wall was pretty thick and they thought they might have to go back in and scrape some of the excess muscle out. BUT his wall looked great after his echocardiogram today! Two things may have happened: the wall thinned out on its own or he was so upset during his last echo we just got a bad picture. Either way, we'll take it! It's still thicker than a normal kiddos heart, but nothing that requires surgery!! His valve is looking great too! He still has a little murmur, something that will likely last for life, but he is doing really great right now. So much so, that we don't need to go in for another cardio appointment for a year!! I told Dr. Sheppard, our cardiologist, I don't know if I'm ready for that - haha! 

Len started school (OT, PT) a few weeks ago to help with some of his gross motor delays and he's doing great. He will continue this until at least 3 years of age. Around age 4-5, he will get a full assessment for learning and ADHD (etc.) as these are more common in heart kids. We so appreciate how much they encourage early intervention and his teacher is the best in advocating for Len and helping his parents do things at home to help him.

Looking forward, things are pretty open ended. Because they were able to spare Len's valve during his last surgery, the hope is it grows with him naturally and he may never need surgery again! However, there is also a chance that doesn't happen and he could need a valve replacement. Long term, his only restrictions may just be around altitude changes; he'll be a little tired for a day or two when we fly somewhere because of the oxygen change, and no scuba diving or climbing mount Everest (HA!), but I think we can live with that. 

Len did so great during his appointment today and I am so stinking proud of him and his strong Lion heart! YAY LEN!

Thank you for all your love, support, prayers, and general good vibes. We always get so anxious before these appointments, and this time we really get to celebrate! 

So much love to you and yours, 

Angie, Steve, and Len <3