A Few Words From the Dad

Alan’s first attempt at blogging.

October 19:  Time for seizures.  Brennan had brain mapping surgery yesterday.  Today the doctors want to see six seizures to determine where the seizures start so they can decide if they can perform additional surgery to remove the brain areas causing the seizures in hopes of ending the seizures or drastically reducing them.  Rough day for Brennan he has never had six seizures in one day.  Number 1 occurred at 7:41 a.m. while in the ICU with Karen (before I arrived).  They moved Brennan to the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit where they will watch him round-the-clock to analyze the seizures.  As we are learning, the doctors like to see a “buzz” from the brainwaves on the EEG to pinpoint the seizure.  Brennan didn’t cooperate and the first seizure did not have a buzz.  I hung out with Brennan while Karen took Sophie and Abby to the “Trashion Show” to show off Karen’s incredible recycled dresses made from maps, postcards, and grocery bags (she is so creative) modeled by Abby and her BFF Eryn.  In the meantime, Brennan did not disappoint.  He had Numbers 2, 3, and 4 with me (one had the buzz).  Good news so far, the first three seizures are in the same vicinity near the prior tumor resection area.  Karen arrived and we both hung out with Brennan for Numbers 5 and 6 (the last one at 9:55 p.m.).  The doctor already left so we have to wait until tomorrow to know if the last three seizures were in the same area – keeping our fingers (and toes) crossed.  Again, rough day for Brennan.  He is so brave and courageous.  As I have repeatedly said, he is my hero!

Alan’s post script:

October 20:  Good news.  The doctor is back and has looked at the last three seizures – all in the same area (although not the same exact focal point).  Next step:  The doctor is going to play “puppet master” today.  He will electronically manipulate the electrodes on the mapping in the seizure area to see if they relate to important functional areas (for example, motor or language functions).  Hopefully not, and then they can determine if surgery is an option.  Abby told Karen she wanted to push the buttons to make Brennan move his arms and legs like a puppet.  We know which one is the twisted sister!

Karen will provide further updates.