We recently found out, through our latest bloodwork, that Lawson will have to start taking a growth hormone. We will have to go in for a more detailed test. This test is a 3 hr test:(. They will give him something that will make his pituitary gland secrete the growth hormone and then draw blood every 20 minutes to test his levels. This will measure the level of GH that he is currently creating on his own. It will take 2 months for us to get the results. Then we will start him on GH injection 6 days a week. And more than likely will be on the GH until he is 17 years old. Eric and I were really discouraged by this news but after much discussion, realize that it is necessary. Lawson is only 2-3 inches shorter than the average 2 and a half year old. Though it is a small difference now, the gap would grow without the GH. Lawson should be caught up within a year or two. He will grow to the actual height and weight - - had he been full term. We are thankful that the GH exists but dread that we will have to administer it through daily injections. The good news is:
- It is a lot like a diabetic pen (or an epi pen). Hopefully making it less painful than a normal shot.
- He is followed closely by an Endocrinologist and he should grow at a normal pace.
I'm still doing lots of research on this so I am looking forward to learning all that I can.
If you or anyone you know have taken a GH at a early age, I would love to hear your story and experience, awood@xsp.com. Thanks:)!
