OK, here is a complete timeline for the hardship (USIA sponsor, US child) waiver filed with TSC:
04-27-2005: I-612 NOR
05-04-2005: DOS online application filed
05-16-2005: I-613 NOR by DOS
05-25-2005: Medical/Sponsor views requested
07-03-2005: Medical views received
09-11-2005: Resent Sponsor views request
09-28-2005: Sponsor views received
11-05-2005: Recommendation (I-613) sent to TSC
11-28-2005: Recommendation (copy) received by applicant
12-02-2005: Expedite Request and Congressmen's inquery sent
12-06-2005: I-612 NOA sent
12-16-2005: I-612 NOA received (online status still showing pending)