Brandon Update

We finally have a diagnosis for Brandon. The last MRI results reveal a "partial agenesis of the posterior corpus collosum." How's that for a mouth full? The corpus collosum is the brain structure that connects the right and left sides of the brain. This facilitates communication between the right and left hemispheres of the brain. Patients with this type of brain often present with psychotic symptoms including hallucinations and delusions, especially in adolescence. Typical treatment is an antipsychotic medication such as Abilify. Presently, Brandon is on six different medications. The hope is that we can decrease many of those by adding Abilify. I googled this condition and found that it is a rare birth defect that can develop between the 5th and 16th week of pregnancy. In most cases it is not possible to know what caused the disorder, but they do believe that it is a genetic malfunction. We wonder if this is not what Brandon has had his whole life because of his signs and symptoms such as seizures, spasticity, learning delays, and social miscues. The unusual social behavior is often mistaken for aspergers or autism. It is hard to understand why we are just finding out about this so I requested the MRI results from one taken in 1997. It will be interesting to see the comparison. Brandon has been on Abilify for about 3 weeks now and does seem somewhat better. It is still a mystery to us, but as we study it and learn more, the pieces of the puzzle are coming together. We have been researching ways to help Brandon. It appears that one of the best ways is to place him is a group home. The group homes have better programs and resources to help him. Nyssa is just too small for such facilities. The one that we are looking at is called Tomorrow's Hope. In the Boise/Meridian area there are five homes affiliated with this association. Three workers from the group home came to Nyssa on Wednesday to observe Brandon and meet me and his teacher. They wanted to observe him there so they could familiarize themselves with his abilities and behaviors, etc. This will allow them to place him in a home more suited for his needs. This has been a very difficult decision for us. On the days that he does OK I wonder what are we doing and then the next day he will be a tyrant, but the more we study these homes the better we feel that in the long run it will be the best hope for Brandon. It was nice to be assured that we still have total say in his care. For the first 30 days we may not be able to have contact with him, it just depends on how he does. After the trail period we will be able to visit him as much as we want. Thank you for your continued love and support. It means so much to us to know that you care. We feel your love and your prayers. Thanks!