Ultrasound and Perinatal Visit

It was good to "see" Nathaniel again on the ultrasound. Mel loved seeing him for the first time. We could see his little feet and hands moving. At one point he was lifting his head up and down like he was nodding and opening and closing his mouth. It was so cute. Mel said it looked like he was kissing the inside of my belly.

The doctor did a quick 3D picture of Nathaniel for us. I can't stop looking at it. He's so beautiful.

(The shadowing on top is because Nathaniel started moving around and this was the best image the doctor could get.)

Aside from all our excitement of seeing our baby, we didn't receive news that was any more reassuring than before. In addition to Nathaniel's small chest cavity, the doctor is also concerned because his spine and front ribs have not hardened like they should have by now. Basically they are soft like cartilage still. They should appear bright white on the ultrasound, but look more pale gray.
There are three skeletal dysplasia conditions the doctor believes Nathaniel could have. Thanataphoric Dysplasia, Achondrogenesis, and Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Based on the ossification problem, the doctor is leaning toward Achondrogenesis. Unfortunately, all three are not compatible with life.

We are being realistic about the prognosis, but we are also trying to stay hopeful. Please help us continue to pray for Nathaniel and God's plan for his life.