Sphero what?

Spherocytosis. Hereditary Spherocytosis. After experiencing unexplained borderline anemia my entire life, I finally have a diagnosis. I only have a mild case of this blood disorder since I've never exhibited any of the full blown symptoms. That's the good news.

The sort of bad news is since I have the blood disorder, the pregnancy is taxing my blood levels and my anemia is getting worse as the pregnancy progresses. Several weeks ago my perinatologist was concerned enough to refer me to a hematologist for further evaluation. After vials of blood draws and a trip to the University of Washington for a highly specialized test, the results showed Hereditary Spherocytosis.

For the rest of the pregnancy I'll have a CBC (complete blood count) each week to check my blood levels. If my blood gets low enough, the decision may be made to give me a blood transfusion. This is to ensure the baby is getting enough oxygen through my red blood cells.

Since the disorder is hereditary, she has a 50/50 chance of inheriting it from me. Each week for the rest of the pregnancy her blood levels will be checked for anemia via a special ultrasound. No needles, no blood draws, nothing invasive. That's great! If for some reason she starts showing signs of anemia in utero, she'll simply get to be born sooner rather than later. After birth, she'll be monitored for the disorder and that's it.

So there you have it. A new word for the day. Spherocytosis.

Hello Dear Family & Friends

Hello Dear Family & Friends,

In anticipation of the new and upcoming birthday of our little one, we've created this blog. We'll post photos and updates here for all to see. Check back often and do be sure to leave us a note or send an email. Enjoy!

We're all doing well. The baby is kicking all the time and slowly running out of room in her underwater world. From all the tests and ultrasounds we've had, it appears that she's happy and healthy in there. It's been a lot of fun to see my belly grow and move. Gene keeps saying that he just can't wait to meet her!

After nearly five years since his layoff, Gene will start back at Boeing on June 16. He's thrilled and is looking forward to the job change. Right now he's working diligently on the remodel of our family room. Once it's done, he'll begin on the nursery. Until then, we've got a bassinet and dresser/changing station set up in our room.

The Seattle weather has been pretty mild this spring, which is just fine with me! I only have nine more weeks to handle any summer heat that comes our way. So far my health has been terrific and we couldn't be more pleased. It seems my body is taking pregnancy quite well.

We look forward to hearing from each of you.
Gene & Kirsten

God has blessed us with another pregnancy!

God has blessed us with another pregnancy!

Again, we’ve fallen in love with the kicks from within and the images seen with the ultrasound.

She is due to arrive around August 7th. Yes, our medical team tells us to expect a little lady.

Please join us in praying for her safe & healthy arrival.

Thank you for your continued love and support. We couldn’t make it without each of you in our lives.

Much Love, Gene & Kirsten