Help for Clark’s Cranium Surgery

Our precious son Clark who was born on November 21st has been diagnosed with a condition called craniosynostosis. Normally, a baby's skull is in separate plates to allow rapid growth of the brain during the first years of life. Craniosynostosis is a condition in which one or more of those plates fuse together prematurely. This can cause pressure on the brain resulting in developmental delays, seizures, and potential brain damage if left untreated. Clark's particular synostosis is on the lambdoid suture on the back of his head. This is the rarest type of craniosynostosis--only comprising 2% of cases! We searched for a surgical team with experience on lambdoid because of its rarity and proximity to the cerebellum. Clark will be having surgery on Thursday, February 8th in Gainesville, FL to separate the skull bones. His skull will then be reshaped by a series of postoperative helmets until he is 1 year old.

While we were searching for neurosurgeons, Clark was also diagnosed with conductive hearing loss. We will be seeing a hearing specialist in Gainesville to investigate the cause. Fluid behind the eardrums could be solely responsible, but it is possible that the bones of the inner ear have some deformity related to his craniosynostosis.

God has been so faithful to us already. The fact that Clark's craniosynostosis was diagnosed this early is a miracle! Early diagnosis has allowed us to pursue a less invasive endoscopic craniectomy before the condition could affect the development of his brain or contort his facial features. God also directed us to a team of excellent surgeons in Gainesville, FL where we hope to address both his skull deformity and hearing loss.

Since some have asked, we wanted to provide one place where anyone who feels led can be a help to us. Clark's treatment will include expensive helmets in addition to hospital bills. Our insurance has agreed to cover only the first postoperative helmet. There will be traveling and lodging costs for the surgery and followup appointments in Gainesville. It is possible that Clark will be recommended hearing aids as well. Any funds donated will be used exclusively for these needs. God has already guided us, and we know He will provide for us also. Please join us in praying for an uncomplicated surgery, speedy recovery, and hearing loss being caused by fluid only.