Friday, November 21, 2008

Hailey's birthmark


Today was Hailey's appt with the dermatologist up at The Children's Hospital in Denver. First of all, that place was HUGE! It's actually part of a gigantic campus of University Hospital so it takes up quite a bit of land. When you walk in the front door it's a bit like being in the food court of a mall or airport. Yeah, like the airport. Between the parking garage and entrances to the cars constantly pulling up to the front door to pick up or drop off someone or some family. So it was a little overwhelming in a sense when you walk in but I was immediately greeted by a lady asking what I was needing and pointing me to the correct desk to go to so that I could check in and get my parking validated so that I didn't have to pay for it. Then she sent us on our merry way to the 2nd floor where there are several specialists and their offices. They have this system of letters corresponding to each specialty and each letter has it's own waiting area. What's funny is as I am typing this it makes me think of one of those surreal movies where everything is controlled by robots and very exact. But it didn't actually feel that way! Anyways, they called us back almost immediately after we sat down. There were 2 nurses to check us in and get vitals and they were both very gracious. The nurse that took us back to the room actually pushed the stroller for me and asked where I wanted it parked. And then the best part, just before she left the room she asked me if there was anything I needed her to get or do so that I could be totally comfortable! WOW! For all the doctor offices I have been in I have never had that kind of service! And this is just for skin! I can only imagine how great they are with some of the patients in the scarier areas! Since this is a university hospital, we actually had a resident come in first to take a look at her. And then the regular doc came in. He was great too! So I guess it's safe to say that I have a great feeling about this place and Hailey going here.


So the diagnosis is that we are just going to leave it be. They took a picture of it to put in her file so that they have a baseline and can just watch it. I have to take her back when she is 1 yr old so they can see what it is or isn't doing at that point. They don't like to mess with birthmarks unless they absolutely have to. Those scenarios are if it is going to start forcing her eye shut or threatening the structure of her face. And once it has "gone away" if there is anything left in there, they may do something to get rid of that. So for now, we just wait. I am glad to at least have someone in this field to keep an eye on it in the long run but I am also glad that they don't just take these things off without thinking long term and what this thing is all about. I can see why my pediatrician recommended this office even though it is a drive!

3 comments:

Cheryl said...

That sounds like a fabulous hospital. Do you think it would be silly for me to drive their for one of my kids next appointments? It's just a little out of the way. ☺

I'm glad the appointment went so well. You definitely don't want people messing with your baby if not necessary ... and even more so when it involves her face. Better safe than sorry in that area.

jkluginbill said...

Glad your appointment went well! It is great to have good experiences with hospitals.

Hailey is a cutie and growing so much! :)

Shell said...

Great news! Don't let anybody mess with that beautiful baby's face!! (o: