Bear's Last Therapy Session
Today’s picture post is going to be a little different than usual. Call me a hormonal, pregnant mom if you want, but I just can’t help but celebrate where we are.
Back in 2009, which Bear was diagnosed with Infantile Spasms, the doctors gave us a very grim outlook. We had to face developmental delays, mental retardation and even death square in the face. The beautiful thing that came out of it was a child who was willing to fight against all odds and prove them wrong.
Bear did everything late from the point of being 5 1/2 months old on. When her seizures came back, we were devastated. All the hard work she put up for 2 months had to be redone. And with it came even more scary proclamation.
When her neurologist found the cause of her seizures, 14 q 12 microduplication, we learned very little more of what to expect. At the time, Bear was one of 9 to have this diagnosis. They have since found a few more. Because of the extra strand on her DNA, she might never talk, she would crawl and walk late and may never be able to do some of the things that normal kids could do.
But she kept fighting. And she kept proving them wrong.
Bear crawled at 16 months. She walked at 22 months. And now, she says all kinds of word and tries so hard to say many more. She is quick to learn new signs and is able to communicate her needs. And she is smart!
No, I’m not just saying that. Her therapists will tell you the same thing.
What do I attribute this success too?
First of all, Jesus Christ. He is her ultimate healer and he is the one who pulled our whole family through every bit of the trials we went through with Bear and even Lion.
Second, early intervention therapy in our home. Her therapists never believed for one moment that Bear would not succeed in life. They encouraged us. They pushed her.
Lastly, Bear is a beast! I love my daughter and I wouldn’t trade her for the world. She has taught me so much on how to live life to the full and how to laugh in the face of adversity.
So, today ends a season but begins a new one. No longer is my house as much as a revolving door as before. Yes, we still have therapy for Lion, but it isn’t the same. Just one little one in EI is enough for me in my super pregnant state.
And as for Bear, may she keep shocking the world and doing great things! I love you baby!
Disclaimer: Please ignore any typos. I was literally crying like a baby when I typed this post, still am. This is real, raw emotion. What can I say, I am a pregnant, hormonal mommy who is so proud of her daughter!
