Birthmark

Faith Ann's mark on her arm has started changing. I made a dermatologist appointment just to get an opinion on the birthmark. I went to a general dermatologist. She said she thinks it's an "infancy hemangioma." I showed her pictures of the progression from birth. There are some red spots forming with in the birthmark, which is why doctor thinks it's a hemangioma. There were too many "I think" coming from this doctor. However, this dermatologist and our pediatrician know that it is strictly cosmetic which I am grateful for. I love our pediatrician, she always gives wonderful advice. She thinks I should let it run it's course and that it will greatly improve. But, I still want answers...not "I thinks!"

 4 days old

She referred me to Texas Children's because they will know how to monitor/treat a 5 week old birthmark. If it is a hemangioma, it will fade on it's own over the coming years. The doctor said even if it's not a hemangioma- there are mild laser treatments that will greatly improve (if not completly remove) the birthmark. That will be a decision I make much later.

10 days old

For now, I play the waiting the game for my appointment at Texas Children's. They are so busy, and this is SO minor compared to real issues...so we wait for a month! I will continue to take pictures to document progression. It will be great to speak to someone who is an expert and to establish a baseline point. The birthmark sometimes completely disappears, then will pop back up as she moves her arm around. It also has a "veiny" look which makes our pediatrician think it is immature blood vessels that will completely go away. Now, the red spots throughout the area. It also sometimes look like a bruise. This birthmark never looks the same! Point is...there is enough going on with it that I want a specialist to provide information.

2.5 weeks old (on her right inner arm)

This post documents our starting point. Hopefully, I will get an official name for this mark and a plan. Do we sit and watch, is there a cream, what do we expect, will it cause any other issues for her?? All questions I want answered. At the end of the day...the dermatologist and my pediatrician seem to think it will go away and be "no significant issue." But, I am the mother and to me....anything that leaves unanswered questions IS a significant issue. Answers and information are powerful!

 Most recent at 4.5 weeks old

Faith Ann, I am your advocate right now. You don't have a voice, but I will be your voice to get answers. If this was on me... I would want answers. Even if there is nothing we can do, at least you will know the details of your own body! We don't know if God wants this to be part of you forever or just part of your childhood? Regardless, we will call this your BEAUTY MARK because you are seriously the most beautiful thing I have ever seen! You are beautiful on the inside too with your peaceful heart! Gosh, we love you!!