What Do We Do Now?

Mason’s next surgery is scheduled for Aug. 7, 2006. At this time, Mason’s upper gum will be closed and injected with Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP). This will help stimulate new bone growth where the cleft is in his gum line. Mason’s nose will be repaired, and his lip will be touched up. When he turns about a year old, he will have his palate repaired. 

I am nervous about the upcoming surgeries, but I know he is in extremely good hands with the doctors at Cardinal Glennon. As a parent, I have found comfort and still continue to do so from my online friends who have children and are currently trying to conceive. Their strength and support have been a safe haven for me to lay out my joys and fears as a parent. I have found all of them to give excellent advice and an unconditional sense of acceptance. 

I would encourage anyone looking for support to check into online groups that support you. Draw on the strength of the gift that God has given you in your husband/wife and child you gave birth to. Nothing is better than the love of family and friends. 

Mason is now almost seven months old. It has been a blessing to be the parents of this remarkable little boy. Every day we see him grow and change in ways we have never seen before. He is truly the light of our lives! God has blessed us by choosing us to be the parents of this special child! What a wonderful gift! Thank you for allowing us to share our story with you.

Melissa and Kevin Frieling
Bunceton, MO