Trying Something New

Samuel holding his cousin Ezra (Kristin's son) at Christmas.

Samuel's been doing pretty much the same since my last blog, that is, until the last couple weeks. We started him on a nutritional supplement packed full of vitamins and minerals and herbs (particularly Omega 3) that are supposed to be helpful for epilepsy. I immediately saw a difference in his appetite, his attitude, and his clarity of mind. Even more important, he went 14 days without a seizure! He hasn't gone longer than 7 days in a very long time. It was a great relief, and even though it's too soon to say for sure, it looks like it's helping.

Also, five days ago, we got him into a hyperbaric oxygen tank, thanks to the help of a close friend. The only thing we've noticed about that is an inordinate increase of hyperactivity in the evenings afterward, so we are backing off on that a bit by decreasing the amount of time in the tank. He's only gone in the tank three times, so we're not sure if it's going to help or not. Sometimes hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps epileptics, but sometimes it doesn't. 

We are hopeful in trying these new things that God is leading us in the right direction. Our church had a week of prayer and fasting in January for those in our church who are ill, and for some, the focus of prayer went toward Samuel. Our friend came out of that week of fasting with a new passion for Samuel, and he's the one who sent us in this new direction with supplements and oxygen. 

We follow God's lead and trust Him to take care of Samuel in whatever way He deems best for us. We know He will work all of this for our good and His glory!

We are sooooo thankful for all the prayers for Samuel. We've been hearing from all sides how many people are praying for him, and we are so appreciative. We know that he requires much prayer, so thank you!