We had another appointment at Riley this past Wednesday, this time to meet with both the pediatric gastroenterologist and a developmentalist. The GI said Nico's esophagus and stomach look good. The nisson looks good and doesn't appear to be letting stomach contents back up into the esophagus. There are no signs of inflammation and food appears to be moving normally through the digestive tract. Though it is not likely, it is possible Nicolas is having allergic reactions to the food though there is no evidence to suggest that at this time. Nico's retching, which has become more frequent and much more uncomfortable for him over the last few weeks, might be caused by intermittent problems with his stomach emptying into the intestines. Again, there is no evidence of this except the retching.

Now onto the heavier stuff. The developmentalist spent a couple of hours with us reviewing Nico's history and observing him. She was able to see him retch and see his spasms, both video and live. She also spoke with the metabolic geneticist who had seen Nico last month. Because her goal is to help Nico feel better and to determine what is causing his symptoms, she feels he needs a neurological follow up as well as to try different treatments e.g. feeding changes and prescription changes. She also thinks that experts in infant development, pediatric neurology and metabolic neurology should observe Nicolas on a regular basis and be able to observe him as a team. Therefore, she recommended we admit Nicolas as an inpatient at Riley. So, back to the hospital we go. We are taking the family truckster to Indy on Monday and will be there until they can help our little angel feel better. As difficult as it is to go back to a hospital, this time 150 miles from home, we know that our prayers lately have been to provide him with comfort and to help us understand what is happening to him. Hopefully, this is the beginning of an answer to our prayers. Thanks to everyone for your continued thoughts, prayers and support. Though we don't have the opportunity to tell you thank you every day, please know that we think of you all daily and our hearts are full of gratitude that you are part of our lives. Until the next update....Jake and Felisa