Update

We had another scan in Newcastle yesterday to get a 2nd opinion. Unfortunately, this scan and this set of doctors agreed with the diagnoses of Ventriculomegaly - meaning in our babies brain the fluid chambers (ventricles) are dilated to 14-15mm. Normal fetal brains have a dilation of less than 10mm. One and a thousand babies are born with this condition. There are several possibilities for cause:

1. an infection
2. genetic syndrome
3. partial blockage to the flow of fluid out of the chambers
4. a generalized problem with the way the brain is developing
5. a chromosome problem

I have been tested for an infection just waiting for results. Kevin and I have declined to have the test done for a chromosome problem at this time as it's a fairly invasive procedure with some risk. There are no other tests that can be done to determine any of the other causes. And regardless of the results of the tests there will be nothing we can do for baby aside from prepare ourselves for when baby arrives. There is a 1 in 3 chance that baby will have neurodevelopmental problems - which leaves a 66% chance that baby will be born perfectly healthy.

We go back in 2 weeks for another scan and our plan is to monitor baby for the next month or so and then re-evaluate.

The past two days have been a blur mixed with such excitement going into our 20 week scan only to leave with heavy hearts & tear filled eyes. All everyone ever hopes for is a happy, healthy baby so when something pops up that might prevent that - I guess you could say it's every parents worst nightmare ...only it feels like it's happening too soon for us. We're still getting our heads around all the happiness and excitement that a baby brings it seems unfair to have that interrupted. One in a thousand....I just keep wondering why us :/ We are hanging on to the hope that we will be amongst the majority with this condition and baby will be born healthy. The unfortunate part to that is in the next 5 months we won't be as focused on the growth of my belly but moreso on the growth of our baby's brain ventricles.

Kevin & I are strong and optimistic. We've both faced our fair share of lifes lemons and have, with the love & support of each other and our friends and family, adapted & overcome. Thank you all for you thoughts and prayers - please continue them and we'll continue to post updates as we receive them.

Love you lots baby! Mommy & Daddy bought you some very handsome outfits yesterday :)