PWS Information

What is a Port Wine Stain, you ask? Well, you've come to the right place! Before Elliot was born I really didn't know what a Port Wine Stain was myself! I'm sure you can imagine we're "experts" in our own right by this point. ;)

Here are some great links to find out more information about this special type of birthmark.

BASIC INFORMATION

What exactly is it?

Vascular Malformations and associated syndromes

The Vascular Birthmark Foundation


Our Amazing Doctor and Hospital

Dr. Jeffry Orringer

University of Michigan Dermatology 



NEWS

Single, random change to gene during fetal development causes birthmarks and the more serious Sturge-Weber syndrome


Research

Sturge-Weber Research Study



Inspirational Posts

After 14 years of covering it up, woman decides to stop hiding her facial birthmark



2 comments:

Anonymous said...

You are an amazing mom and your son is beautiful. I just wanted to thank you for doing this, and say I hope you keep it up!

Our infant son has PWS and we're not sure what we're dealing with yet in terms of the risk for SWS, but reading through your journey has helped me understand where we might be headed with PWS. It's still a challenge to accept. The swelling and bruising and so on are hard to handle on their own, and I am even more nervous about the long-term effects of routine exposure to anesthesia.

Jena said...

Thank you so much for your kind words. I haven't posted much lately but there aren't really any new updates. Elliot had his last treatment early this year and we haven't scheduled one yet. Due to a change in insurance I'm not sure when his next will be. :( We haven't had Blue Cross before but I've heard it's a battle to get them to cover.

Try to relax and not over think the SWS. That was such a concern of mine that it made me miserable when he was young. He's now a bright, happy and well adjusted 7 year old. I know the road looks long, hard and scary but you are not alone. If you are on FB I suggest joining the Birthmark Buddies group where you can interact with all of us. <3 Best wishes for you and your little one.