I went back and forth a few times with multiple people from Akron Children’s Hospital this morning, trying to figure out the missing lab work thing. I’m happy and relieved to say that I think we’re good now. ☺

We have the pre-op prep instructions that he will begin on Monday and while unpleasant, it should be okay.

Lizze and I have both twisted ourselves up over this set of procedures that Gavin will have done on Monday. While a colonoscopy and endoscopy aren’t catastrophic in nature, it’s not something many 18 year olds have done. I’ll be 40 in August and I’ve never had one done.

We never want to put any of our kids through anything that’s unnecessary, especially if it’s more invasive.

The reality is, Gavin can’t provide us with anything close to reliable information about his health and because there is reason to believe that he has a GI bleed, there isn’t really another option.

At this point, it’s medically necessary and if nothing else, we can rule out any serious problems.

Being a Special Needs Parent isn’t easy and oftentimes, it’s full of difficult decisions. All we can do is trust our doctors, understand exactly what needs to be done and make the best decision we can, based on the information available.

That’s what we did this time once again.

As heartbreaking as it is for Gavin to struggle in the ways that he does (see The Heartbreaking Reality of CDD), his lack of awareness allows him to live in blissful ignorance to most of what goes on around him.

While he’s scared of the IV, he’s blissfully ignorant to the rest.

It’s one of those bittersweet blessings.