Hi, Mark!  Recently you wrote in a message to Ardith Hinton:

MH>  The choice to wait was in hopes of a less invasive
MH>  surgery and with more long term success.


           Makes sense to me....  :-)



MH>  Basically, if we can get the effected area of the bowel
MH>  down in size by ensuring that he going to the bathroom
MH>  very regularly - less will have to be removed.  Only
MH>  about 6 or 7 inches MUST be removed due to the condition
MH>  - but there is working bowel before that area that is
MH>  veru distended.  If we can get it down in size, it has
MH>  been kept and used.


           Yes....



MH>  We have been trying to do this for some time, but are
MH>  going to a more "aggressive" approach to managing it.


           He may have difficulty with toileting before the call of nature is
urgent, though... particularly in view of his age.  The low muscle tone which
often accompanies DS can be a contributing factor as can various medications.

           We used a stool softener whilst Nora was in treatment for leukemia
& again after her stroke.  On both occasions the doctor recommended something
which is technically an OTC item but which one must ask the pharmacist for by
name... I think because the professionals want to make sure their clients are
receiving proper guidance WRT such items.  I also tend to "push" raw fruits &
veggies whenever I have reason to suspect Nora may be a bit constipated.  ;-)



MH>  The thought is, we will see what progress was made in the
MH>  next month or so and re-evaluate.  At this point in time,
MH>  I'm figuring it will be in the spring.


           A month or so has already gone by, and I'm 'way behind in answering
my mail.  But please be assured we haven't forgotten you....  :-)




--- timEd/386 1.10.y2k+
 * Origin: Wits' End, Vancouver CANADA (1:153/716)