VMR Today

What isa VMR one may ask?

My answer - 23 hours of pure HELL.

Technical answer -

Video-EEG monitoring has two components:

Video: A camera is used to visually record you continuously while at the same time the EEG is recording the brain activity. There is a TV monitor with a split screen in the room; the screen shows your EEG on one side and the video recording on the other side. By using the video in connection with the EEG, the doctors can see exactly what happens physically when you are having a typical spell or seizure. Seeing what happens helps them make a more accurate diagnosis of the seizure type.

EEG: Scalp electrodes are glued to the scalp exactly as it is done for routine EEG. The only difference is that for continuous 24-hour recordings, the glue is stronger and will hold for a longer period of time. (Your hair, of course, must be clean, dry and free of all hair care products.) A computer monitors the EEG recording continuously so that your seizure activity is recorded even if you are not aware of seizure activity. This recording gives the doctors a more accurate count of seizures and allows them to compare what is physically happening with what is recorded on the EEG.

Let me back up. When I contacted Drew's neurologist regarding his potential seizure activity, he recommended a VMR. First available appointment was August 3rd. Too lonng when my baby is having seizures. I was put on the cancellation list, praying for a cancellation. I received a phone call Thursday that there was a cancellation for the next day. I jumped on it and here we are.

Today I packed clothes and toys, Art took Drew to get a hair cut - unless your hair is super short - the glue they use is impossible to get out. Watch Drew get strapped down to the table and scream for 30 minutes while the technician glued the electrodes to Drew's head and wrap him like a mummy. Spend the rest of the day trying to entertain Drew and Art. We are in a tiny space and me and Art are practically breathing on one another. Not Good. We are trying not to snap at one another because we are audio recorded as well. One parent needs to be awake at all times to log any seizure activity that you may see, so you are sleep deprived as well. I am taking the first shift. Of course we have not seen the intensity and frequency of the seizures we have at home- but I do have 5 events logged.

At least I have the Michael Jackson coverage to keep me entertained. I have read through 6 magazines.

It is now 2:20am, I have been awake since 6:30 am yesterday. This SUCKS!!