Nothing can be more crushing than to here the words that your son
is not normal. For the Doornbos' it was a nightmare that came true.
The nightmare continued for years until they discovered CRA and
Dr. Versendaal. While they still have a long road to travel Chris
parents now have dreams for their child. Read more about Chris Doornbos's
story and how he has over come his many challenges.
Chris Doornbos's story
Shattered Dreams. As the helicopter
took our newborn son, Chris, from a small hospital in Gallup,
NM, to the university hospital in Albuquerque, NM, we heard
words that became our worst nightmare; "Your son is not normal." This
was the beginning of a long road of hospitalizations and a desperate
search to figure out what was wrong with our son.
After countless tests the only diagnosis the doctors could agree
on was "failure
to thrive." After two years Chris had been in the hospital twenty-three
times and had received four major surgeries. He had not even doubled his birth
weight of 7 lbs, 13 oz., was fed through a tube, needed oxygen at night, was
nebulized six times a day, had chronic diarrhea, suffered from acute sensory
sensitivity and a sleep disorder. Test after test showed no diagnosis or prognosis
for Chris.
Finally, in one last effort to help Chris the doctors decided to feed Chris intravenously
for 9 months. This procedure helped immensely and for the first time Chris started
to put on weight, and take a real interest in life. However, at age five he still
was weak, 30 pounds, in diapers, tube fed, had a minimal vocabulary, and just
beginning to walk.
Our family then moved from New Mexico to Michigan and we were introduced to CRA
and Dr. Versendaal. Getting the recommended nutrition into the feeding tube was
a challenge, but we were committed to giving it a try. The next two years brought
a series of miracles for Chris. He grew stronger, began to eat, was toilet trained,
and for the first time had hair! One by one his medical problems disappeared
and those shattered dreams were being mended.
Today Chris is an active ten-year-old boy. He continues to have many challenges
and is mentally impaired. But we have great dreams for him. We marvel at his
ability to not only talk, but sing from the depths of his heart. He not only
walks, but also runs and rides a bike. He is learning how to read, play the piano,
and is part of a great inclusive education program! He even regularly needs a
haircut!
We thank God for Dr. Versendaal, CRA, and for the bright hope we have for the
future.
******
Next story »
Submit your own stories here:
We would like to receive written testimonials from you as to how
CRA has helped you as a patient or a professional. For possible
publication in the newsletter and/or website, send your tribute
to
CRA Tribute
PO Box 914
Jenison, MI 49429-0914.
Email» Dhoezee@i2k.com
