Update

Hello everyone. Thought you might like an update on Austin. The surgery went very well. They reattached the retina on his right (working) eye. The surgeon said it had torn all around, in many spots. He also treated the left eye (his lazy eye) with a laser, because it showed signs of tearing in the future. This is not the same laser surgery that we're use to talking about. It is not a laser for vision. This laser seals the retina to the back of the (eye?) We arrived at the hospital at 6:15 am and were home by 1pm.


In order to "hold" the newly laser-sealed-retina in place, they filled his eye with a gas bubble that puts pressure on the retina (so it will stay in place.) The gas bubble makes it so he cannot see out of his eye. It also requires Austin to keep his head down at all times. He cannot look up, sleep on his back, or sit upright (with his head in an upright position) for 7 days. For example, when he's walking, he has to look at his toes. The bubble gradually disintegrates over a 3 to 6 week period. At that point, we'll have an idea of how good his vision will be. The surgeon also said his vision could continue to change (improve hopefully) for up to 9 or 10 months. He did say that the torn retina reached the macula. Devestating news. Science would say with the damaged macula, his vision has been permanently compromised.

But are we EVER surprised by what priesthood power, fasting, temple attendance, and fervent prayer can accomplish? We are so grateful for all your love, support, prayers, fasting, phone calls & emailing. We ask you to continue to remember to pray and fast for Austin's vision to return. He is an amazing young man who has always kept the commandments, served his freinds and family and lived close to the spirit. I pray the Lord will see fit to bless him with the ability to live a wonderfully productive life until his mission on earth is accomplished.

He needs to be able to see through one of his eyes. This will not be overwith for several months. Please keep his name in your temples!

We love you,
Laurie