Second Opinion

Ryan seems to be in a rut lately. Mom and I have been attempting to figure out if there is any way we can make any progress in Ryan's recovery. We decided to do some research online, and look for any doctors or hospitals that might have the answer we are looking for. We came across a doctor in Baltimore, Maryland that claims to specialize in Ryan's lung condition. We were really excited to know that someone out there possibly could have the qualifications that would help or even improve Ryan's care, but we thought he needed more. That's when a link for a children's hospital appeared. It was like somehow we were supposed to click on this link. Every possible combination of search keywords we entered gave the results of Nationwide Children's Hospital. After opening their website, we found that this Columbus, Ohio based hospital has an entire department that specializes in premature infants with Bronchopulonary Dysplasia (BPD). Worst case is that this hospital will say that Loma Linda Children's Hospital is doing everything that they would do there in Ohio.

We asked the doctors here if they would contact the doctors there to see if there is anything over the phone that they could recommend. The doctor did call and spoke to a doctor by the name of Dr. Shepard. After the call had taken place, we were told that Dr. Shepard seemed to be interested in Ryan's case. He asked that the team at Loma Linda send him selected items in regards to Ryan's situation. Mom signed a release to transfer medical records. Within a day or two those medical records were sent via FedEx to Columbus.
We are currently waiting to hear if Dr Shepard has found anything that he would do different. As said before, if he does not have any additional recommended treatments or tests for Ryan's plan of care, we haven't lost anything.
We understand that Ryan has a typical disease for babies being born at 24 weeks, but at the same time he is very unique. Mom and I are hoping that this uniqueness is what intrigued Dr. Shepard to take a look. The chances of Ryan being transferred to Nationwide Children's are minimal, but we will do what ever it takes when it comes to Ryan's health.