FEBRUARY 2000

Anyone making plans to sit in on the Special Education Chat tomorrow night?

Okay:)

I have to admit I have a tendency to try and make anybody giggle but my son takes the cake:)

Coming home from Wal-mart(where else:)I proceeded to tell my son that my sister Brenda( an L.V.N. student) was right they would grow an extra toe at the age of 7 :)

After about 10 minutes of pulling their legs, my sister politely tells them I am lying out my WAHZOO :)

At this all 3 boys bust a gut laughing and carried on for a few minutes:)

My son Daniel after laughing so hard took a breathe and asked, with the most serious face, What a WAHZOO was.

He made my husband laugh so hard he had to pull over and wait till he had recomposed himself so he could drive the rest of the way up the DRIVEWAY:)

We still get a giggle out of that one:)

WAHZOOOOOOO:)

RO

Hi Stacey, It is good to know that I am not the only one that gets frustrated that my child can't walk yet....He is soooooo heavy ( he is 31 lbs ) I guess I will get big muscles in my arms. I know that he will walk in his own time, he has taken his own time with everyother motor skill that he has mastered. When is Brooke's Birthday? Clark was born on June 11, 1997. I am hoping to figure out the Chat room stuff...I got on and didn't get it.....I will try again and maybe we can chat !!!!

Hello everyone!! I must say, my mom gave me the address to the Uno Mas sight. I really enjoy it. My mom does as well. I would love to hear from some of you. I have a sister that is 8yrs. old, she is the same age as my oldest daughter. She attends kindergarten, but goes to special ed. classes two days a week. Her teacher was the one that gave my mom the address to this sight. I have recieved some letters from a couple of you here, I have copied them for my mom to read. She does not have a computer yet, but I hear they may be getting one soon. If any of you would like to write me, please do so!!! I enjoy learning as much as I can about d/s children. My sister Rachael is so very full of life and love. It is something that my parents, and the rest of my family did not think we would ever see. She started off very rough in her newborn life. But is doing wonderfully now. I would love to hear from you!!

Yes, thank you so much for the reminder, Ro..I have also seen it before...and even passed it along, but had forgotten..thanks again for keepin' us REAL.. :)
*hugs* Tina

I asked God to take away my pain. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up. I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No. Her spirit is whole and her body is only temporary. I asked God to grant me patience. God said, No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is earned. I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No. I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you. I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me. I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful. I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things. I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me. God said... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.

Ro- Thank you so much for that. I'm printing it up. I'm sure I've read it somewhere before, but for some reason it really hit me hard today-like a direct word from God (through Ro!LOL!) and is so true that through all these things God does His work in us. Hopefully I'll grow one of these days...

Hi Linda, my son Jared is 8 and theres another mom here whose son is going to be 9 coming this summer. Is that old enough for ya? lol JK:)

marie

Hi Everyone, You all know me as Luke's mom. I enjoy hearing from every one that sends us E-MAIL. I would love to hear even more from anyone that would love to talk about our kids.(I can't get enough of them!) Luke is 10 yrs. old and probably an "old timer" compared to most of your kids! HAHA LOL!I would love for every one to keep writing to us & if anyone knows of any children about Luke's age please have them to write to us. We "old timers" need to find out any "new info." that's out noe ,that wasn't when our kids were borned. GOD BLESS you & ALL your little ones .....Hugs and Kisses to them all LINDA

Hi Tina, Just wanted to say good luck to sweet little Stevie-Marie on March 7. She will be in our prayers as always! Give her hugs & kisses from me & Luke

*HUGS* to Adrienne..... :)

I asked God to take away my pain. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up. I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No. Her spirit is whole and her body is only temporary. I asked God to grant me patience. God said, No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is earned. I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No. I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you. I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me. I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful. I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things. I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me. God said... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.

Good afternoon all! I am once again getting very frusterated with the whole reflux thing. I am trying to be patient till our doctors appt with the GI doctor in March but sometimes it's too much. Just when I think he is doing good for a day or so he spits up even more. I know you all have given words of encouragement in the past and I thank you all for it. I just needed to talk today. I wouldn't give up this reflux boy for the world but I hope it will also end soon. I am hoping I can talk to the doctors about the surgery and maybe do the surgery. I just got my respit approved so maybe I can take a break every once and awhile. I feel like I am on my hands and knees all day following my son around and wiping up yucky stuff. I know I am sounding and being negative today and I am sorry for venting but I had to. Thanks for listening.

Adrienne

Hi heather and cindy:)

I found the book on line very simply. If you go to: www.amazon.com

and go to their search for books and type in Setting Limits ....it takes you right to the book and how you can order it. I found mine in Barnes and Noble if you have such a bookstore near you.

i tried to make it a link but it didnt seem to work?

I really like the book and its very deatiled and informative and has info on working with kids of all ages and some with special needs, though it doesnt mention DS specifically as i recall.

Hope this helps let me know!! :)

marie

To Toni, i am sorry the doctor said that to you, i think a lot of people dont have much sensitivity, or else they feel the need to say something and it doesnt come out the right way.

I wanted to say this. i think balance is a good thing. It is a sacrifice of my lfie in some ways to have my son. My life would have been different if he'd not been born with DS. caring for a reatarded person is not easy and there will be more demands on my life than maybe i would have.

It doesnt mean my son is a freak, or that i dont love him to pieces, but its harder, and more work in many ways, with extra time devoted to education, medical and twice a smany decisions.

I think some people want to express empathy, and i remind myself of that when someone apologizes when they look at me son, or seem sympathetic and the like. some days that sympathy is appreciated especially when jared's acting up. But they express their sympathy in the form of negativity. Myabe a lot mean it to be that way but i think some feel the need to say something and thats what comes out.

I understand your fustration i know there are times when people look at jared funny because hes 8 and throwing tantrums like a 2 year old. One time jared threw lollopops all over he floor in walmart and we got down on the floor of walmart and did not get up til everyone os picked up. the greeter lady felt sorry for jared and tried to help but i firmly told her NO he needs to learn and she let it go, but alas a symapthy look and i didnt mind it that day haha!!

I am babbling here and sorry. i guess what i was saying is that i think some people dont meanto be insesitive. i'm sorry this docotr was.

i hope you dont take this the wrong way.....but he was right on one thing, in some ways it is a sacrifice and as i'm sure you know not always easy. take care

marie

Cindy and Tina,

Saying a prayer for Kaylee and Stevie-Marie for the upcoming surgery. Also keeping you in prayer for peace and comfort during the procedure. From experience, I know that mommies struggle too!

Hugs!

Hi All- Just wanted to tell you that we took Kaylee to have her teeth cleaned today as I just found out that it's a good idea to do this before having any throat surgeries due to increased risk of infection when there's plaque build up. ANYWAYS! She did so good, sat through the entire thing (for about 30-45minutes) and let them do the whole procedure without one problem! I was shocked, to say the least-as it wasn't the regular dentist (who is a friend of our and works well with Kaylee) but the hygenist-and she was a wonderful hygenist! So, for all of you who are just starting the dentist thing, stick with it. Be firm. Be consistent (we went once a month for 3-4months just for 15 minutes each time to get her used to having tools and hands in her mouth) and it will get better!!! :)

Marilyn (JC) thanks for the encouragement about the up coming surgery. Good to hear that it was a quick recovery for Vinson. And Kaylee likes french fries so much, I'm sure she'll be eating those again within days.. :)

Have a good day everyone! Hope to get to chat with some of you soon..

Thank you Tina, Marie and Cindy for responding so quickly to my post yesterday about behaviors! I feel so much better already, even just hearing that other mothers are going through the same thing, and other children are just as hard to handle sometimes as Nicholas. Marie, I would like to know more about the book, as would Cindy. Thank you everyone!!!!!!

Good morning, I wrote in my story yesterday, My e-mail address was wrong, please change to twins@wnonline.net. The old address was tcld@wnonline.net. Thanks, Lisa

Hi everyone. I am a single mom with an 18 yr old DS son. He has surpassed everyone expectations, because of his severe heart condition,but with prayer and hopes we do not give up. Though he has Alopecia (losing hair) now and was wondering if any other parents had this conditions. Let me know if you do and what you are doing for it. Thanks

I was thinking about the insensitive comments made by health professionals.......I am an Rn working in an ICU........One of our Cardiologists told me that I was a "better person than him" b/c I wanted to adopt Jeffery.......He asked me... did I know the sacrifices I was going to have to make......to take care of a "retarded person"....."Why not let someone else do it"....I told him that Jeffery had enriched my life,,,,,,,,,he kept insisting that my life would be a "sacrifice".........I never did get through to him that keeping Jeffery was the right thing,,,,,,that I could no more give up Jeffery than I could stop breathing.........I finally told him....."Yes,,,,I am a better person than you" The other nurses,,,Jeffery's "aunts" were gathered around me glaring at him,,,,,,needless to say,,,We do't like him anymore........lol

Hi Lorena, We haven't met in the chatroom yet, but I have a little girl, Brooke, your son's age. She is close to walking, pushing her little ride-on-toy and taking 3-5 steeps between her dad and me, but I too get frustrated with her not walking yet. In her time, I keep telling myself. :) To everyone, I so enjoy talking with all of you! I feel like I make a new friend almost every night. As for some cruel comment someone gave me, a so called friend said to a relative of mine that she hoped we had learned our lesson, "four children is enough". O-well her loss. Friends like that no one needs. Hope to chat with you soon. Stacey

Hi, I'm am Lorena and I have a 2 1/2 son (Clark) with DS. He is such a joy to us !!! Wanted to know how old your children were when they learned to walk on there own....He is just starting to walk with a push toy...I guess we are just impatient !!!!

Great news!! we finally got a computer so hopefully i can stay on touch with more of you. I put our email address on here (what was my husband thinking--big ears I guess) if i got the address correct. Heather F: I know exactly where you are coming from about the behavior problems. Brittany is to me just entering the terrible twos and she will be three next month. She has started screaming. A very frustrated scream, not all the time mostly when I sit her in her high chair and her food is not like RIGHT THERE! She has a very bad habit of pushing her younger brother who just turned one last week. She likes to give him hugs and kisses too, although most of the time she shows it as a headlock or bodyslammer. She can't quite get the concept that he is smaller than her and she could hurt him. My dad tells me to spank her every, I mean every single time she does it and not to wear out before she does. my dad does not understand that look on her face that tells you she completely hasn't a clue about why you are spanking her. After all she thinks she is loving her brother and every time she is getting spanked. Time out has worked a little, more for her father than for me. I don't mean to gab, but today was extremely difficult. Me, Brittany, and Fletcher went out this afternoon after lunch. I figured it would go smoothly because their needs had been met. WRONG! Brittany cried the first 15minutes we were in the car. I questioned "what's wrong" endlessly, turned the radio up and tried to drown her out, and finally spotting a sucker the teller had given me earlier, had quietness. Maybe, I wouldn't mind hearing about this book Marie had suggested, "setting limits". All I can offer you is that I know where you are. They are teaching us and for that we have the lord to thank.

Hiya Marie!!
Yes, I have been pretty busy on this end too, but think of you guys all the time. I hope that you are feeling better soon and we get a chance to 'catch up'..till we 'chat' again..take care.
Luv, Tina

P.S. Give Jared an extra hug for us.. :)

hi tina been a few days since we talked, hope your doing ok and that we connect again soon. ive been fighting illness and havent been surfing the web to much but been thinking about you. take care hun:)

marie

lol Heather, i hear you on the behavior thing, it can be fustrating at times. I think impatience will happen time to time. A good book i found that helped was called setting limits ( i can try and find the info if you like) it requires the parents being extremely consistent 24 7 which isnt always easy but the book has been a hug help. hang in there, ok? give yourself a break too:) take care

marie

Tina, thanks for your kind words for Luke & myself. I really do enjoy all of you guys in the chat and one day we all may be able to all meet each other, wouldn't that be great!if we all could get together ,it would be like heaven on earth because we would be close to alot of little angels! hugs& kisses to ALL your children LINDA

Heather,
'Been there, done that...still there..doin' that a lot of the time.. :) please e-mail me ANYTIME...I always look for the positive, but sometimes need a little help findin' it myself..no judgement, no lecturin', just good ol' support here.. :)

Linda,
I love every chance I get to chat with you and share Luke..he sounds like such a character..a dear character at that.. :) hearing about him always makes me smile..they too, grow up VERY fast, huh? *hugs* Tina

Hi everyone! It's been a while since I've posted anything, which might be my problem: I have been SO frustrated with Nicholas (3 1/2) the last week. He has been doing everything in his power to do "no no's", and I have to tell him fifty+ times a day to do something or not to do something. I am going crazy, and I have been so impatient with him! Please lend me a hand full of support and advice, PLEASE!!!!!

Hi everyone! It's been a while since I've posted anything, which might be my problem: I have been SO frustrated with Nicholas (3 1/2) the last week. He has been doing everything in his power to do "no no's", and I have to tell him fifty+ times a day to do something or not to do something. I am going crazy, and I have been so impatient with him! Please lend me a hand full of support and advice, PLEASE!!!!!

I JUST WANTED TO SAY THANKS TO EVERYONE THAT GETS IN THE CHAT ROOM. YOU ALL HAVE BEEN SUCH A GREAT INSPIRATION TO ME. EVEN THOUGH LUKE IS 10YRS.OLD(PROBABLY OLDER THAN MOST KIDS IN THE CHAT) I STILL SOMETIMES FEEL LIKE I'M IN THIS THING BY MYSELF. IT SOMETIMES IS EVEN HARD TO LET ALL YOU FEELINGS OUT TO FAMILY MEMBERS. I GUESS IF SOMEONE HASN'T BEEN THOUGH SOME OF THE THINGS THAT WE HAVE GONE THROUGH WITH OUR CHILDREN IT'S HARD FOR THEM TO UNDERSTAND HOW WE AS PARENTS FEEL SOMETIMES.I SIT AND READ SOME OF THE THINGS YOU & YOUR KIDS HAVE GONE THROUGH AND THINGS SOME ARE GOING THROUGH NOW AND MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL OF YOU AND I START TO FEEL VERY BLESSED THAT GOD HAS GIVEN LUKE TO ME AND EVEN THOUGH HE MAY HAVE GOT OFF TO A VERY ROUGH START IN HIS LIFE, HE'S HEALTHY,HAPPY AND THE SWEETEST LITTLE FELLOW YOU WOULD EVER WANT TO MEET! MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU AND ALL YOUR LITTLE ONES SAFE IN HIS ARMS. THANKS AGAIN FOR BEING HERE FOR LUKE & ME I ALSO WOULD LOVE TO RECIEVE E-MAIL FROM ANYONE THAT WOULD LIKE TO MEET LINDA

to tina, stevie-maries mom and cindy, kaylees mom. vinson stayed over night when he had his t & a and ear tubes put in. the dr. advised it because so much goes on. like getting dehydrated and bleeding. he did fine but i'm glad he stayed over night because he did start running a fever. the soft foods we bought vinson wouldn't eat but he did go for a hamberger and fries. haha we were very lucky. you wouldn't of known he had surgery the dr.s and nurses were amazed at how well he did. i will be praying for stevie-marie and kaylee. marilyn

Has anyone had experience with their kids developing Alopecia?

Thanks Cindy,
The doctor said it probably would not be necessary for Stevie to stay the night, but it definitely depends on how things go..also because she does not have a heart-defect...or any of the major medical problems so common in Ds..(thank the Lord). I will REALLY stay on top of things though and will definitely insist on her staying if I get the slightest 'inkling' that she should. Somehow we know these things huh?? Best of luck to Kaylee also, I know it will be hard for her to understand..I know this because from our correspondence in the past, I know that Kaylee and Stevie-Marie seem to be alot alike..and almost the same age..both in kdgtn., etc. *hugs* and prayers to you guys...Tina

Tina-Great story! By the way, Kaylee's having the same surgery on March 2nd...we'll be glad to get it over with too. What did your doc say about an overnight stay? I consulted Dr. Len from DS health, and he said we should insist she stay the night. You can find the research at www.ds-health.com/abst/a9803.htm

We faxed the study to our ENT and are waiting to hear back from him about her staying overnight. I would rather not have to stay the night, but if there's more risk in just taking her home then we'll push for the overnighter. Dr. Len did say to make sure she is taking liquids WELL before they discharge her. I'm going to put something on the bulletin board for all you other parent to give us suggestions about what your child enjoyed eating and drinking after they had their tonsils out. Help us out here! :)

Good luck Stevei-Marie!

Good Day, all!!
Well, it seems Stevie-Marie will be joining the ranks of the tonsil-less, adenoid-less, and repeat ear tubed on March 7th.. I am looking forward to having it done so we can move along again...she has been so sick lately with the sore-throats and ear-aches, etc.
I also had to share something with you..regarding...comebacks..etc.During our visit to the ENT this morning the doc kept remarking at how "clever" Stevie was having 'downs' and all..and after the exam, during his consultation with me, I was asking if she would be required to stay overnight...due to her having "down's"..well, at this point, Stevie had evidently taken all she could of this and let out one heck of a GROWL...the doctor and I both turned toward her..and she THREW her lil arms straight up in the air and said, "UPS!!!!!" I had to laugh as this is what I have always told her and everyone else..Stevie has 'down's', but we call it , "UPS"...hillarious..you go girl..she will set this ol' world straight..one doctor, one person at a time..
Hope you are all having a good day and that I get a chance to chat with ya soon..Until then..you and ALL your little ones are in our prayers and on our minds.. ttfn..Tina

Tina and Toni, I loved your comments. I'm going to use the one from Toni, if the occasion arises:) We've got to be bold and in your face about our beautiful kids. It's time the world woke up and got a brain.(by the way, I'm pms-ing this morning:0 It's easy to be bold when you're walking in the pms shoes.

About the rude comments, thought I would share one with y'all. We were in a Wal-Mart, and the cashier looked at me and said "You're a better person than I am" - I didn't know what in the world she was talking about, I said "what?". She said "I was pregnant, and found out my baby was going to have Ds and I just had an abortion, there's no way I would have had a baby like that"! I just couldn't believe it! Ashleigh was still a baby when this happened, so I didn't say anything to her, I just left ( and cried!). I wish I could go back in time, there's alot I would say to her now! > Lisa H. - I need some of your boldness. I'm really glad you told that carnival worker what you did, and I had to laugh about what you wanted to tell that nurse - my thoughts exactly! I just need the guts to stand up to people - I think I'm slowly but surely getting it!!!!

Cindy/Brittany's mom,

We have the same situation as you do. Peter is 3 and still in our bed (most of the time) while his 2 month old sister is in their bedroom in the crib. He will sleep in his bed if we take him in there when he is already asleep. He transitioned into a toddler bed when he was 1, which worked well at the time because it was still in our room. Then when he was 2 we moved, he got his own room, and a twin size bed (with a rail of course). He started to sleep there but then something happened and he prefers our bed now. He is all over the bed also. He does not wake up when Shyla cries in the middle of the night so i know he can sleep in their room.

I guess I have given in too easily and allowed him to sleep with us too long. Mostly it was from when I was pregnant and my husband worked late. Peter likes to stay up late and I was so tired that the only way I could get him to sleep was to lay down with him in our bed. I am trying again to get him to fall asleep in his room. Little by little he is cooperating more. I just put a light switch in his room that he can reach so if he does wake up he can turn it on himself.

Sorry I don't have any answers, just keep persevering, as I will also.Good Luck. Keep us posted if you discover a successful method.

Cindy,

We have the same situation as you do. Peter is 3 and still in our bed (most of the time) while his 2 month old sister is in their bedroom in the crib. He will sleep in his bed if we take him in there when he is already asleep. He transitioned into a toddler bed when he was 1, which worked well at the time because it was still in our room. Then when he was 2 we moved, he got his own room, and a twin size bed (with a rail of course). He started to sleep there but then something happened and he prefers our bed now. He is all over the bed also. He does not wake up when Shyla cries in the middle of the night so i know he can sleep in their room.

I guess I have given in too easily and allowed him to sleep with us too long. Mostly it was from when I was pregnant and my husband worked late. Peter likes to stay up late and I was so tired that the only way I could get him to sleep was to lay down with him in our bed. I am trying again to get him to fall asleep in his room. Little by little he is cooperating more. I just put a light switch in his room that he can reach so if he does wake up he can turn it on himself.

Sorry I don't have any answers, just keep persevering, as I will also.Good Luck. Keep us posted if you discover a successful method.

I had a lady come to my door today to say, "Hi" from a guy running for office in our area. She saw Kaila and said that she always sees those kids at the mall and the people with them have so much patience. She went on to say that she felt so sorry for the kids etc... I told her that I felt sorry for all the people that abort these kids, because they are life's biggest joy. I then asked her to help in my prolife voter guide distribution, and she agreed to help!!! I couldn't believe it! Just wanted to share. I live in Oceanside Ca. if anyone would like to help me.

I am sorry but I have to get this off my chest... I heard from someone that parents are having plastic surgery done on their children with DS. I have a 5 month old with DS and I think this is awful... I truly can not understand why a parent would put their child through that...if it is because you are afraid other kids will make fun of them...every kid gets made fun of.. whether it is your color of hair, eyes, race anything...Kids can be cruel but why put your child through that because of what people may say or think... WHO CARES

To Cindy/Brittany's mom:

I just started getting my son, Danny(3 w/DS) into a toddler bed the other night. Fortunately, he has been sleeping in a crib in his own room, so we don't have that problem too. The toddler bed we got him has the rail on top and bottom and runs half way down the sides(Graco), so it gives him a sort of boundary to stay within. You could also put some pillows around the bed just in case she does roll off.

Last night I woke up in the middle of the night and checked on him. He was asleep on the floor in front of his bedroom door, which has a gate in front of it. I picked him up and put him back in his bed and he never woke up-poor kid-at least the floor is carpeted.

Anyway, take a look at the Graco bed. Hope this helps and Good Luck!

I just wanted to tell you all about a comment we got about Annie while waiting for a table at a restaurant. She was running around the area and an elderly man was also waiting. He said something about her being cute and then commented that maybe she would become president of the USA, someday. When I said "Oh, I don't think so" he made the comment that probably within her life time a woman would be president. I didn't know what to say. I think it's obvios she has Down syndrome, but I guess that day it wasn't so obvios.Or else his eye sight was going ! But how about that-- some with DS president? Got me to thinking "why not?" I don't want to start any controversies, I just thought it was a funny comment the old guy made.

Just a quick note; I was scanning tv and found a show on The Animal Planet "Breaking Through" about a ds boy and others who were understanding communication by means of dolphin therapy. Only saw last 20minutes, but was interesting.

I wanted to ask if anyone had suggestions on sleeping arrangements. My husband and I have a two bedroom apartment. Currently, Fletcher our son, who is one sleeps in the bedroom by himself in a crib and Brittany 3(DS) sleeps GUESS WHERE??? in our bed..Although I love her sleeping in our bed we really need to figure out some type of plan. She is all over the bed so I wondering how she could sleep on a tiny toddler bed. Also if she sleeps in the room as Fletcher when she wakes up, that means he has to get up. I thought about bunk beds, but he's really not big enough to come out of a crib. I could put a toddler bed beside our bed for her, but I would like to get her in the other bedroom. All I could think is to make one big bed for them both in the floor LOL. Any suggestions??

Hey everyone! I just posted some message on the board, I guess they're not the same. I was telling about how I've always been jealous about people with ds ever since I was little. I gotta go now, Buh bye! Love Alwayz, Jeanette

I have another story involving a young woman (30 @ that time) that I have worked with since long before I had my daughter. I took Rose to a carnival (she loves carnivals) and she wanted to ride the bumper cars, so we get the tickets and get in line. When we get up there, he carnival worker wrinkles up his face in distaste and says " you actually think she can operate it by herself?" (right in front of her. You should have seen the look on er face) I quietly told her to go pick a car and when she was out of earshot, I let him have it, I got in his face and told him "she has down sydrome, she's not stupid, and she's probably a hell of a lot smarter than you are." Then I went on to give him a dressing down he wouldn't soon forget. When Rose was done with her ride, I went and tracked down the carnival owner and reported the incident. He was very apologetic and gave her a handful of free ride tickets. She had a great time, but did not choose the bumper cars anymore that night.

I've only had a couple of comments that bothered me, and sadly, they were both from medical professionals (of course, most other people don"t realize she has ds unless we know them) Anyway, we were at te emergency room one night (one of many) and this nurse we had had once before, came in the room and in this really accusing tone says "she's a DOWNS, isn't she?" I wanted to say "no you stupid b____, she's a baby" but instead I said "well, she HAS downs" The baby wasn't even there for anything ds related......The other time, she was in the Childrens hospital with her 1st round of congestive heart failure and we were getting ready to be released, the head cardiologist (who deals with ds kids every day) asked if we had any questions. I asked if we needed to restrict her activities as she grew. and he told me "I wouldn't worry about it, kids with downs aren't active anyway, they don't play sports or anything" I was shocked! I just stood there with my mouth open thinking, "how ignorant can you be? and if they haven't been included in many organized sports in the past, it's been because of backward thinking people like you holding them back." I have since requested that he no longer be involvd with her care, and after relating this story to our regular cardiologist, I have his full cooperation on that request.

I actually had to laugh the other day at this lady's ignorance w/DS. I was in the A&P w/Michael (who is 4 but very small for his age -- he looks about 2) and there was a lady working there who was giving out samples of cereal. She offered some to Michael and I politely said that I didn't think he could manage chewing the cereal (he is being weaned from a feeding tube). So she looked at Mike w/his little glasses and said, "Oh, I'm sorry dear. I didn't see "it" right away. I had a brother who...who..." I said, "Did your brother have Down Syndrome?" She said, "Oh, no. He was born normal but had a convulsion after a few hours and became retarded. (which she pronounced, re-tawd-ed, she must be a New Yawka.) She went on to say how the doctors told her mother to put him in a "home" so, "she did put him in a home. You know, a place where they take care of all retards. He died when he was 27. Other retarded people there used to hit him so he was always very skittish. So honey, when I look at your son I have compassion." I HAD to laugh as we walked away! She told that horrible story and somehow felt she was conveying compassion!! A few years ago, I would have been crushed but things are different, and better, now. I forgive ignorant people as long as they're not trying to be mean!!!

Tina- Hi I made it through the test okay, now I have to wait another week to even find out if I can even have the treatment done. I hate waiting!!!! Brenda, Judi and anyone else who prayed for us I really appreciate it.

After feeding Stevie 3 waffles and a banana this morning he litterally layed on my feet and whined for half an hour for bread. What are you supposed to do. I finally couldn't take it anymore and gave in.

About the unkind comments. When Stevie was about 9 months old a store clerk said Oh he's a mongoloid baby isn't he? (Don't here that word anymore do you?) I just politely said no he has Down syndrome. That was the only unkind word I have ever heard. Stevie is just so social, he charms the pants off all adults.

Karen
In our county there is the 'special education co-operative that got us started with our daughter Stevie-Marie..Also, if you contact the local elementary school, I am sure they can lead you in the right direction. Hope this helps and best of luck..Tina

I have a son who will be 2 1/2 at the end of April, so we are supposed to be looking into preschools right now. we live in the Denver area, and I have no idea where to start. How do you find out which schools start children at 3 years old, and which ones don't without calling everyone in the phone book under "preschools"? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

People are crazy,regarding the comment of pity to Tori! I'm still thinking how silly I was at McDonalds last weekend when I took my sweet niece for the first time on and outing and hoping that everybody thought that she was mine. I know I'm terrible! I know that I would have been shocked if someone had said an ignorant remark. However, as high as I was, I know that they would have wished that they'd have Kaila as theirs, as I do, by the time they left her presence. Feel it, know it and express the love that they have to offer all of us. They're an overflowing cup of God's joy and happiness and we have a part of that. Are we blessed or what!!!!

How 'bout this??
My ex-husband, after finding out that Stevie-Marie had down's..said, "oh, I am sorry!!" I said, "I know, that is why she is not yours!!!" I liked that one.. :)

Hey Patty,,,,,How about this come back.....When she said "How Pitiful" I could have said...."I'm sure he's thinking the same thing about you" LOL

I can't believe the comment that the women said to Toni about her precious Jeffery. We all have to come up with some creative language for comments like that. Let's all brainstorm and see what we come up with. We've got to stop this nonsence!

Toni: Boy, you've got more self control than I do. I'm afraid I woulda smacked her good. Tina (and everyone): About GPs...I've got a post down there about using both my GP and the specialists, but I had to tell you about my GP. He's a GP/OBGYN, so he also delivered Alex. I had a very hard time getting pregnant to begin with, and we knew this may be my only baby. She had no ds featres at birth, but, since she never cried and didn't suck well, we thought there might be some kind of problem. No one suspected ds. When we got the tests back (at 3 weeks) , this wonderful man broke the news of ds to us, he had tears streaming down his face. And he stayed in the room with us while I cried and wailed and absorbed the news. He told us that he would always be there for us whether it was medical or other stuff and he has been. Later on he told me that that telling me about the ds was the hardest thing he has ever done in his medical career. But he also loves and accepts her as we do, holds her, talks to her, brags on her, asks for pictures. He accepts my opinion, and researches what he doesn't know, then doesn't hesitate to send us on to a specialist if we need it. He truely is a friend, not just our DR. (And to top it all off, he's very good looking -hahahaha)

I've been reading your comments on facial features....and available surgeries.....Jeffery is 10 months....and obvious Down Syndrome.....no mistaking it......when they brought him to me at about 5 weeks......I had never seen a baby w/ Down Syndrome.....As I have watched him grow,,,his features b/c more obvious and more endearing.....I can't imagine putting him through a surgery,,,but I can understand where these parents are coming from........particularly if their child is very mild.......I was at the mall last month,,Jeffery was in his stroller,,,,smiling,,and kicking and enjoying the heck outta himself.....lol.....A woman walked up and looked at him and said,,,"How pitiful"....I was shocked, as most people who see him smile and want to hold him,,,,,,I said,,,"Actually, I think he is beautiful....His eyes are my favorite thing about him,,so full of life and expressions" It was better than smacking here in the face...........lol

Silly me..forgot to add that our pediatrician is a GP.. :)

Adrienne,
"happens all the time..LOL Stevie-Marie and I were in the grocery store not too long ago and a man said (to her) "Yer kinda big to be sittin' in the cart, ain't ya??" to which I responded...with a smile, a-course..."She is too big for me to carry.. and I am too 'old' (feeling) to chase her..LOL
The same thing happens with my other children also though..Cassie is 18 months old, but pretty small..(she is a preemie) and today at the doctor's office an elderly lady said..I didn't know that baby could walk.. LOL I told her she was 18 months old..and the lady was sooo sweet...the best is when you get some curious looks in Restraunts when you feed them a burger or something..cracks me up..

Brenda, and all
Thanks for the well-wishes..nothin real serious here..thank the Lord..but, Stevie still having some ear and throat problems so is being referred to an ENT on Monday..and Cass still has the 'bronchiolitus'..so, a new antibiotic for both of them and some steroids for the little one.. :)
A while back some of you were asking opinions on a GP (general practitioner) as opposed to a special needs Pediatrician. I sincerely wish EVERYONE could find a doc like ours.. :) She truly is the best..always listening to my opinion..heeding my 'motherly' instints and never jumping to the conclusion with Stevie-Marie that....it's just a "down's" thing.. :) She is absolutely terrific.. :)

Now, I am rambling, have missed you ALL and hope to get everything back down to a 'dull-roar' here soon so I can post (and read) more often.
hope all are feeling well, and have a fantastic weekend.. :)
*hugs*Tina

Denise, Have been thinking about you ALL day..scary, huh? Please let us know as soon as you can what you found out..I hope you finally got some answers..extra *hugs* to you and Stevie (and your dad for his support too..) I know this is hard on all of ya. :)

Boy I just have to say congratulations to all the mom's that are pregnant here! On the BB under amniocentisis, it is very apparent that there is alot of us pregnant again!!! Yeah to us all!

We were at the video store tonight, Regan, Russell and I and a lady assumed outloud to me that Russell must be an infant. She was trying to guess his age and thought he was so cute. I told he that he was 23 months and almost 2 yrs old. She was so shocked. She said "Oh my gosh". I guess she could have bet he was an infant. I told her that mentally he was only around 12 months old and then she felt sorry for me. (I was amused inside at all this) She actually then gave me a hug and blessed me like I was in trouble. I was flattered and took her hug. I thought it was very sweet of her. I have never had anyone felt sorry for us for our situation before. Most people embrace us but she looked concerned for Russell.

Does this stuff happen to you guys? It was an interesting moment! At least I got a laugh inside of me! Happy weekend y'all!!!

Hello everyone! On the subject of facial features, I just wanted to add my feelings. Our 3 month old Nicholas has DS and bilat cleft lip and palate. The lip (which is not connected at all, all the way up to the nose) and palate (the gum area where his two front teeth will come in is separate from the rest of his gum and is really crooked) is VERY obvious. We get alot of attention when we go out because they're twins, and we get one of two reactions: "They are so beautiful" (I too feel like they are just being polite) or "What's wrong with him?" (the only other reaction was a 3yo old boy at the pediatricians who was literally frightened away even after I explained that his lip was just broken and the Doctor's going to fix it). He is going to have upcoming lip repair next month and palate repair at 1 year. This is considered medically necessary because of feeding and speech/language development as well as sinus and ear problems. I have mixed emotions. On one hand, I can't wait for them to do the lip repair and even if it weren't medically necessary, I think we would probably have it done eventually. Both he and his brother smile now and his facial muscles aren't connected so you can barely see it on Nicholas. I can't wait to see a big smile on that cute little face! On the other hand, we are so used to the way he looks and we love him so much that we both laughed and agreed the other night that we're going to miss the way his lip is now. It's going to be a big adjustment to get used to his new look. We're taking alot of pictures now and even taking them tomorrow AM for professional pics. Personally, I would never bring him in for plastic surgery for his DS features, because those to me are minor and I think he's pretty cool the way he is. If other people have a problem, it's just that...their problem. I'm not against plastic surgery, though, and I think that if the child wants something done when they are OLD ENOUGH, then they should have the support of their parents. I don't know, I guess I really wanted to post here to maybe give another perspective. That's not for us, but I can certainly understand some of the feelings those parents might have. Thanks for listening!

Judi...Thanks for the comforting thoughts on school. I know that once he starts to go, I'll probably get used to it and I know he will enjoy himself. I thinks it's all the anticipation from now until then that will drive me crazy. He's having his transition meeting 3/31. After that they will decide what program will be better for him and then I will be going for my first visit to the school. I was actually going to see about applying for a job as a paraproffesional. Most schools need them and I would love working with other children as well as my own. My other 2 kids are in schiol all day, so I would have the time available. Sherri...It's nice to know that I will be going through the school thing at the same time as someone else. I wrote down your e-mail address so maybe we can write once school starts and compare experiences. You can write me anytime. I'm really surprised at the responses I've seen to the subject I brought up about changing the faces of DS children to lessen their features. I'm so glad to know that I am not alone on how angry it made me. I didn't actually see the program, but just hearing about it got me so upset. It is so important for us to accept our children as who they are, what they look like, no matter their differences. Everyone is different. Even our children without DS. My other son has ADHD and drives me absolutely crazy most of the time. He's more of a handful than My Eli. Sometimes HIS behavior is quite embarrassing, but we deal with our children and accept however they are because we love them. I'm glad to see so many parents that are in love with their angel's faces. I know I am! LOL Nicole

Hi everybody! Thought I would throw my 2 cents worth in on the "features" subject. Alex's features are very mild, also. Used to be, the only way anyone (even the professionals) could tell she had ds was with the blood test results. As she gets older (20 mo) people who have been around ds pick up on it, but no one else does. When I tell people they say "Are you sure?" [Yes] Then "how do you know? Then once they are covinced, they tell me that it must be very mild. I think everyone out there in the non-ds world think there is a direct link between features and functioning. To me that's like saying tall people are smarter than short, or people with blue eyes are smarter than those with brown. I guess it's up to us to teach the rest of the world.

Nicole: My boys turned 3 12/29, and started school 1/4. I went thru the same "emotional" stuff as we began talking about then actually beginning the "transition" process from ECI to school. I just didn't feel ready to put two tiny little 3 year olds on the school bus! However, like Sherri said, once we visited the classroom and I met the teachers and the aids and saw how easily they just made themselves at home and joined in the classes activities on the day we visited, started to put me at ease. I also talked to a couple of other parents and asked how they felt about the program and got all good reports. That helped too. The boys' school really loves parental involvement (kind of hard for us to do since we both have to work), but we were offered the choice to "volunteer" in the classroom once or twice a week. Maybe that's an option you can bring up w/your child's school and that way you won't feel like you'll miss any "firsts"? Now, the school bus thing.. that took some getting used to, for me! The boys absolutely ADORE riding the bus (I think they love it more than school!). The driver and the aid are just wonderful and the boys have already stolen their hearts. We wait at the end of our sidewalk for the bus to pick them up and as soon as they even hear it coming down the street, they get excited and jump up and down and wave. I think that's why I got over that quickly is because they love it so much.

Good afternoon!! Hope everyone is doing well today. It is very WINDY here today & I would suggest putting rocks in your pockets to step outside. We had a round of severe weather go thru last night with a few tornadoes. Can hardly wait for this weather season to start.

Judy: I glad to hear that all is well with Sam & Patrick. I think that taking a CPR class is a real good idea. I probably would have panicked. Where I live you can't dial 911, you have to dial directly to the police station in a town that is 14 miles away for them to send an ambulance. Hopefully someday our little rural community will have 911 access.

Brenda: Jared & I send a GREAT BIG GET WELL SOON WISH !!!

Kim: I also have been told that Jared is only mild Ds.What ever that means.I guess maybe they think that on odd days of the week he has full Ds & on even days of the week he has mild Ds. I do find it humorous!. By the way, has anyone ever been told not to worry that your child will grow out of the Ds as he gets older? I had a male friend of ours tell me that.

Nicole: Sounds like you & I are going to go thru the same things at about the same time. Jared will be 3 in August & will start school the week he turns 3. We just went up to the school today to visit the class rooms he will be in & to meet some of the teachers he will have. I am really excited about this transition. I am a stay at home mom & Jared is my one & only right now, so I am sure I will have some of the emotional things going on as this time gets closer. All the teachers loved him so much they wanted him to just stay. Jared started crying when we had to leave. He had a blast!!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!

Since we are on the subject of features I have to say we too have had people not know that Russell has DS. The doctor's told us when Russell was born and as he got older that they can tell(because they are doctors) but Russell didn't have as prominent features as other DS babies. His face wasn't as flat and his ears were where they should be with being inline with his eyes. I have had other DS mom's not know he had DS also. I can see it being more prominent now that he is almost 2 but only when he laughs and tries to talk. But I do agree that we do get used to their features and love them for them. When we introduce Russell to people and they ask how old he is they get confused. Not many people can see it in Russell so I have the habit of introducing him as "This is Russell and he has DS". Friends laugh that I do this but when I ask people if they can tell, most say no. The only people I have met that have known right away are special needs teachers, pediatric nurses, dr's and PT's. Maybe other people don't know so they don't equate that something is different. Most people think Russell is a big 12 month old baby! LOL. That really makes me giggle.

And since Russell has been alive I have seen a documentary on TLC on the surgery thing for their facial features. The first time I watch, I could only handle 5-10 minutes and cried very hard through the hole thing. The little boy the parents wanted to "alter" was soo cute and only 3 yrs old or so and I couldn't understand why anyone would do that to a kid so beautiful already. Plus, to me, just because they alter his face, people will still know that he is different later when he talks and does activities so they should leave him alone and be proud of who he is!!! The second time I watched the same show I handled more of the show but still turned it off because my husband and I were getting mad!! If this is what others do, I can only understand becuase this is what they need to do, I just couldn't do it myself. I think our children DS or not are beautiful the way they are. (Oh I think my pregnancy hormones are coming out again! LOL) I better sign off now so I don't start crying again! LOL!

Have a great Friday everyone!

Oh, yeah, Judi, we get concerned over choking all the time. Glad you got the cantelope out!!!!

Adrienne

This is to Patty, I don't know how old your child is, but my son is 2 1/2 and when he was an infant, it was very hard to tell that he was DS, but as he got older the features did become more obvious. As his mom and the fact that we see him everyday, we don't really notice it because it becomes so unimportant. But I do notice it when I see pictures of him. I know other people see it more obviously now than they did when he was small. I know that it doesn't matter to you because you love your child just the way they are, but just a word of comfort, I have found that when people see my little boy, they smile at him like he is something veryspecial,which he is. I'm sure that you will encounter the same kindness from others. Some people say things they think you want to hear because sometimes people are so unsure how a parent of a child with DS is handling the situation, but it doesn't mean that they aren't sincere. I think that you will find that there are many wonderful people out there and that having a child with DS will introduce you to a whole new kind of great people. Best of luck to you and your family! On a seperate issue: My son is going to be starting school in September. He will have just turned 3 at the end of July. Though I am all for him being exposed to all the education and help that is available to him, I am already having terrible seperation anxiety! My other 2 children didn'y start school until they were 5 and I was emotionally ready for that. I have always stayed home with my children and seeing them off to their firstday of school is always emotional, but I am so not ready when they are only 3. Especially when even at 3 they seem even younger than that. I have always been there for their first everything. I'm so worried that I'm going to miss some very important first's and I'm afraid that it's going to make me feel very absent. I think he will do very well. He loves to be around other children and he adapts to new environments very well. I'm not worried about him at all at this point. It's ME that's having a hard time dealing with the idea of being away from him. For those of you have already gone through this, is it that bad? or am I wigging out for nothing?....Nicole

Good Friday Morning to you all! We had a little excitement in the Grossman household last evening. I was wrapping up the boys dinner, they were snacking on their dessert of Canteloupe when all of a sudden, Patrick decided not to chew his piece and swallow it whole. That's right, you got it, it got stuck. No air getting in. He panicked, I panicked, but managed to remember my baby CPR. He was turning a lovely shade of blue and fighting me tooth and nail as I was trying my darndest to get that chunk of melon out of his airway. When it didn't pop out after my first 5-6 efforts, I dialed 911 on the speakerphone in the kitchen. While on the phone I managed to get it partially dislodged, and could hear some "wheezing" and faint crying, but he remained still faintly "blue" in the face. About 1 minute before the ambulance arrived, I managed to get the whole thing out and boy did he let out a wail! A very happy sound indeed! By the time the paramedics came into the house, he was happy & smiling and told them "Hi!". They checked him over, proclaimed him OK, and then asked did I want him to go to the hosp. By this time, he squirmed away, proceeded to try open their bag they carried into the house then started chasing Sam around the room hollering at him. I declined the trip to the hosp. since I could see he was back to his same old self. Needless to say, it was very easy for me to see this morning why all my dreams last night involved hospitals, ambulances and the show ER. Think I'll sign up for a refresher CPR course while I'm at it!

Judi-Mom to Sam & Patrick (who's now a lovely shade of pink), 3, Identical Twins

Denise, Will definetly keep you and Stevie in my prayers, Actually youve never been out of them.Philadelphia,gives me cold chills just to think about it ,I went there once to see the big city and got lost when I lived in Running Mead NJ for a short time with my parents at the old age of 19. But then I'm just a small town girl from the hills of WV.

Nicole, My hubby and I watched the show after a freind called and told us it was on.It was awful I was sickened by it and Bill just got angry.Our Handsome Young Man Wont Be Having Any Surgeries.

Morning everyone Sooooo glad to see most everyones little ones are getting better,Happy Happy Happy .My prayers will stay with you.

Were all doing well today, The Flue decided to sweep through the house this past week but didn't stay long thank goodness hope it will just keep going and not get the two in the family it left alone, Matt N Austin, The whole house smells like Lysol and Clorox. NOT coming back if I have anything to do with it.

Tina been thinking of you everyday, Been busy with Mr. Flue and the greenhouse. Hope your all doing good.

I have a question to parents with older ds kids...

Does the ds features get more pronounced when the children grow up? Or,do they have them, or they don't? It really doesn't matter to us, we love our Kaila just the way God made her. I was just wondering if she will start looking more ds when she gets older. I think that she looks ds, but others have told me that they can't tell. I wonder if they are telling the truth just to make me feel better. If only they knew that I feel... These kids are a gift, and I feel proud to have been blessed with her.

Have a great day!!! Stay warm and dry. Patty

I was in the web site and even though i don't know anyone with Down Syndrome I thought that the site was cool and that it really informs people. I was doing a project for Child Development Class.

Hi everyone! Thanks for all your responses on the plastic surgery thing. I'm glad I wasn't alone in my feeling upset. I agree that altering a childs appearance would be much more traumatic for a six year old than being stared at. It might even be frightening. Their faces are so special. It's what let's people know that you were gifted with your own angel. When I walk through a grocery store, I walk with such pride. I want everyone to look at me. I just feel that my Eli was such a special gift and I want everyone to see how lucky I am. I have learned so much from my son that I never would have known, and he has filled a space in me that I didn't even know was empty. I was, of course, very fortunate that Eli was born very healthy and has no medical problems, which I'm sure makes things seem in a differnet prospective than parents that have to deal with health issues in their children with DS, but I'm sure that they don't cherish their children any less. It just must be very trying emotionally, and my prayers are with all the parents who must endure those fears. LOL....Nicole

This is to Kim,

I know exactly where you are coming from. i get that response all the time, "oh Jason's features are so slight he has hardly got downs at all" and i have the same reaction. i gigle and then explain. just thought you should know you are not alone.

have a great weekend everyone!!! Melissa

Hi Nicole, i dont think it was right either. how terrible to put a child through that as well. Someday in heaven i believe i will see my son as he should have been without DS, but for now i believe he is adorable and dont usually get weird looks about his appearance (maybe about behavior but thats another story haha!!) and hes 8. i would think it more traumatic for her to her her appearance altered than to have people look at her, and so what if they do? people have to deal with it and move on. i didnt see the show but hear about it thanks for sharing

marie

Hi every one i just thought i would stop in and let everyone know Oliver is doing GREATi am so glad he is having some awful nights tho doesnt want to sleep at all at night think he has his nights and his days mixed up but i started him on cereal lastnight was so cute how he was eating off a spoon like he was a pro was toooooooo cool lol well he is well health wise still doing GREAT he is weighing 11 lbs 8 oz so thats pretty good for being only 10 lbs 4 oz last week. Well i better get off here and get my behind in bed gotta get up early early in the morning and get to the torture chamber (DENTIST) it is beyond me to make appts at 8 am who in there right mind wants to get tortured that censored early in the morning well im rambiling on so im gone bye bye to you all i will pray for all of you and your babies as i havent had time to read many posts been busy being a mommy finally well gota jam like strawberry c-yas

Well HELLLLOOOOOOOOO.

It is Me, Me you say? Who in HADES?

It is ME, RO:) Remember me?

Been gone for a few days and thought I would pop in and see what is going on.:)

I see new faces and I wish to say HI!!

It is absolutely GORGEOUOS here:) NO SNOW!!!(I live in south Texas and we ain't had none all year)snicker snicker:).

Hey my thought on PLASTIC SURGERY:

At 6 years old will her face not be still changing? What I mean is as she grows won't the facial alteration change? With her size? What they changed today will always be changing. Will it be for the better in the end?

Hey how about OLIVER, and ADIEN and ANNA?

I am reading as fast as I can and I know I am missing something important:(

My thoughts and prayers are out there for everybody:)

I will keep reading RO:)

Hi Nicole I just read your post. I agree wholeheartedly with you. I do everything in my means to keep Olivia out of the hospital,it makes no sense to me. Did you see the Leeza show?It makes me cry to think that her parents care so much about how their kid's look when they could be spending time with their child and helping her to build a strong sense of self.Here's a thought for you. What if your child could have surgery so that there were no physical outward signs of ds?Here's my thought.Besides the fact that I think my daughter is the cutest in every way, I think that her physical signs of ds could be a big help to her when she's older. Let's say your child's an adult and they now have been through this surgery. What will others think of her when they speak or maybe do something kinda out there? I like the fact that there are many kind people out there in this world who will look at my girl and recognize she has ds.People are more patient,understanding, etc when they can recognize the outward signs. I've seen many kind people helping out the adults in malls, library etc. That's my thought. Just babbling now.Gotta go.

I wanted to say that I really enjoy this web site. I don't get to visit very often with my hectic life and schedule. I have 3 children, my youngest, Elijah has DS. He is 2 1/2. He had a therapy session this evening and his teacher was telling me that she watched "Dateline" last week and it was about DS. It was about this family that has a little girl with DS and they had her have plastic surgery to lessen her DS features. I was appalled!!! I wanted to know if anyone else saw the program and what they thought. These parents said they did it because they didn't like the way people looked at them. They wanted to be looked at as a whole family not a family with a child with DS. They also said they wanted her to have high self esteem. Personally, I think they did it for themselves. How can you look at your child for 6 years and ever want them to look any different? How can you look at them for that long and still even see the difference. I love my little boy so much that I couldn't imagine my life without him. Face and all! I take my little boy every where I go and he doesn't get weird looks. I don't get weird looks. I get smiles and people come up to me and him just like they do with my other two children. They say how cute, what a sweet smile, what a beautiful baby, or even you are a lucky mom. If we treat our children with DS just like we treat our other children or any child for that matter, if we love them and cherish them the way a parent should, there is no excuse why they should have a self esteem problem. This little girl wasn't deformed... It wasn't medically neccesary... and at 6 years old, I hardly think she already had a self esteem problem. To me, having a child with DS is a special privelege and it saddens me to hear when they are given to parents that are undeserving of that gift. I would really like to know what other people think about this whole thing. Nicole

Hi guys.... Just wanted to share a moment with you all. Today I had a lady come by to talk to me about RESP's and when Alli came into the room she was asking how old she was, etc. I told her that Alli had DS and she said" Oh wow, she must just be borderline Down Syndrome eh?" It was just such a strange thing to say that I started laughing and made her feel really stupid. I didn't mean to make her feel bad because she was genuinely interested in Alli, but After I stopped giggling at her I did apologize and filled her in a bit. Thought it was funny... anyhow maybe I'll see somebody in the chat room later.. Bye for now..KIM

Hi this is my 1st. time here. If anyone knows Kristen, that is pregnant (5months) Please ask her to keep staying with us in the chat room.Alot of people are worried about her. Thanks LINDA

Denise,
So glad to hear from you..have been thinking about you (and your upcoming angiogram) all week. You and Stevie are definitely in our prayers...keep us posted as soon as you can. *hugs* *hugs* and more *hugs*
Tina

Denise: Good luck tomorrow and I will certainly keep you and Stevie in my prayers. Make sure you post & tell us how everything goes. Judi

Hi everybody- I need to make a personal request. Can you all keep me in your prayers tomorrow? I'm having an angiogram in Philadelphia tomorrow to see if they can fix the problems that have been making me so sick lately. Can you keep stevie in your prayers too? He's just a little guy and he shouldn't have to have a mommy who's sick all the time. I really appreciate it, thanks.

Hello everyone. Just thought that this old mommy would stop by and say hello to all the new mommies and friends. I have been real busy with college and Its difficult to keep both going at the same time. I want to say Im still here and that I miss talking with everyone

Love Ya Bunches

Pam Kristal's mom

Hi All

I hope that every one is doing well.

I have been very busy working on Spencer's web site, and I wanted you all to know that I have now completed "Spencer's story part 2" and "Meet Spencer"

I have also posted "A message from a child" on the BB board.

Love to you all from Mary from U.K

Where was everyone today? Not alot of posts, missed everyone.

Russell had cataract surgery on both eyes when he was born. The eye doctor recently told me to try to keep his glasses on him as much as possible (I am really lazy at this). She keeps saying he can't see A THING without them and has told me in the past he is legally blind. I try to tell her he can see some but she says he can't. Well, she doesn't get to watch him like a did today. Boy can he spot a cheerio on the rug without his glasses and eat it!!!! LOL If that isn't using your blind eyes, I don't know what is!! Way to go Russell!!!

Good night everyone!!!

Adrienne

Hi. It has been awhile since i have posted. today is my son Fletcher's first birthday. hope i can get Brittany (DS) to sing happy birthday to him. She is at this imitative stage right now. I feel like they are just now growing up together because they are at such similar levels. She will be three in March and he is learning and trying to talk at such a fast pace. We had our testing all but the psychological test for preschool last week. I am really nervous about it. I know she will like it and will learn so much, but it is hard to turn them over to someone else even if just half a day. A cooment to Adrienne/Russell's mommy: I am not saying this to scare you. my daughter is missing two bottom teeth--they never came in. At 2years I took her to the dentist. She would not let him look in her mouth so he put her on this backboard and strapped her down from neck to ankles!!!! Terrifying for me and her. Not saying that everyone does it this way because I read the story about holding them in your lap and leaning them back. That was a very good dentist. Research dentists out there to find the right one if you have to take to severa different ones. my daughter also has tncare primary which limited her choice of dentist, but needless to say she won't be going back to that one. Anyway, things are going smooth otherwise. Hopefully, my husband and i will have our tax refund back in a couple of days and we can get a computer then I can check in regularly. hope everyone has a great week.

Well, you know when your hormones are kicking in due to being 7 weeks pregnant... I was on the "Your Story" part of unomas and I read through tons of stories. And I cried, and cried and cried and cried and cried! LOL! They were truly some wonderful stories and they obviously touched my heart!

Is there a problem with the chat room? It loads very slowly.

I didn't pass it along for good luck or good fortune, I passed it along cause I liked it ,

I hope you do to:)

>>"Heaven's Grocery Store"

>>

>>As I was walking down life's

>>highway many years ago

>>I came upon a sign that read

>>Heavens Grocery Store.

>>When I got a little closer

>>the doors swung open wide

>>And when I came to myself

>>I was standing inside.

>>I saw a host of angels.

>>They were standing everywhere

>>One handed me a basket and said

>>"My child shop with care."

>>Everything a human needed

>>was in that grocery store

>>And what you could not carry

>>you could come back for more.

>>First I got some Patience.

>>Love was in that same row.

>>Further down was Understanding,

>>you need that everywhere you go.

>>I got a box or two of Wisdom

>>and Faith a bag or two.

>>And Charity of course

>>I would need some of that too.

>>I couldn't miss the Holy Ghost

>>It was all over the place.

>>And then some Strength and Courage

>>to help me run this race.

>>My basket was getting full but

>>I remembered I needed Grace,

>>And then I chose Salvation for

>>Salvation was for free

>>I tried to get enough of that

>>to do for you and me.

>>Then I started to the counter

>>to pay my grocery bill,

>>For I thought I had everything

>>to do the Masters will.

>>As I went up the aisle I saw

>>Prayer and put that in,

>>For I knew when I stepped outside

>>I would run into sin.

>>Peace and Joy were plentiful,

>>the last things on the shelf.

>>Song and Praise were hanging near

>>so I just helped myself.

>>The I said to the angel "Now how much

>>do I owe?" He smiled and

>>said "Just take them everywhere you go."

>>Again I asked "Really now, How much do

>>I owe?" "My child" he said, "God

>>paid your bill a long time ago."

>>This has been sent to you with

>>love and for blessings. It originated

>>in the Netherlands and has been around

>>the world 9 times. The blessing has now

>>come to you and you will receive a good

>>blessing in the mail within six days of

>>receiving this letter providing you

>>sent it out to someone else. Do not

>>send money for this message has no

>>price. Do not keep this letter but send

>>it on to someone who needs a good blessing.

>>Send 5 copies within 90 hours of reading this

>>and see what happens in six days.

Ro

Hi Everyone!

I've not been able to post for a while...hubby was out of town for a couple of weeks and I was treading water - lol!

I guess you could say I'm still kinda new here so I'll reintroduce my family...me-Theresa, hubby-Brian, and our three girls, Brianna-9, Blake-7 and Brennan-4(Ds)

I just wanted to say hi and that I share in your joys and cry for your pains. What a range of emotions we can experience with each other. I wouldn't change the experience of "knowing" all of you because of my precious peanut for anything in the whole, whole world!!!!

Bye Bye for now,

Brennan's mom

I am so excited. My son Jared is 30 months old & we are in the process of transition into the school system. We had an informal meeting in our "home" with the Special Education Coordinator. It sound like they have ALOT to offer us when the time comes. We are going on Friday to take a tour of the class rooms that Jared will be in. She was even excited that Jared is using "Total Communication." It was so neat that she could come & meet us & Jared in his own environment.

I am new to this web site so I am not quite up to speed on everyone's feeding problems. I would like to mention that my son Jared was diagnosed lactose intolerant & was put on a special formula called Alimentum. I now have him on Westsoy Plus which is a soy milk. I know how frustrating feeding problems can be & I wish everyone well with this issue.

Debbie: Aren't children the best!! I just love how innocent & honest they are. This fast paced world we live in could learn a few things if it would just stop & listen to a child for just a moment.

Lisa: I am kinda new to this place too. I have not posted much but I do check in as much as I can. Keep us posted on how you & Alex are doing.

CHRISTINE - My daughter Jordan is 15 months old. When she was about four months old we found out that she had a very low score on her hearing test that was done right after she was born. (Why we weren't told about it sooner I will never know) Any way, at four months we had her hearing checked again. This time by a specialist. She did score very low on her left ear and normal on her right ear. We then had another type of test done which they attach electrodes to her head and checked the sound waves. It turned out that she could hear out of both ears but the canals of her left ear were so small that it was sort of blocking the sound. Well now at 15 months she can definitely hear. Just thought I'd share this with you. LEEANNE

I thought I would share a funny story with y'all. My little girl, Ashleigh (DS) is five and a half and I also have a little boy, Corey, who is three and a half. I have tried to talk very openly with Corey about the fact that Ashleigh has Down syndrome, because he has asked a couple of questions (about why she can't say something the correct way...) and he's really starting to notice alot of things, like how she makes more of a mess when she eats! So, the other night, we sat down and I tried to explain to him that Ashleigh has Down syndrome, and sometimes - she's just gonna need a little more help doing some things. We talked about the other three children in her class at school that also has Ds. After talking for a little while, I really thought he understood. Until he said "Mom, (pause) - Maybe you could go to the store and buy ME some Down Syndrome!!!"

I just wanted to post a note saying that thanks to all of you who post at this website and one other club for multiples with DS that I'm in, my little Nicholas is getting much better medical care than we would have been able to provide for him without you. I don't post often, but I check out the posts every day. We went to his cardiologist last week who said that he has alot of pulmonary edema that he feels might be due to aspirating his formula. I called them and his pediatrician today and asked about a swallow study,which nobody has ever mentioned to us, and they both agreed that it was a great idea. I also am waiting on a call back from the pediatrician about the enfamil AR. I was wondering, though, if the enfamil can be mixed to 24 cal/oz without any risk of kidney damage. Nicholas is on a high calorie diet. I also asked about vitamin supplements and was told that they have been shown in medical studies to cause peripheral neuropathy. Has anyone read any studies regarding this? I am did call on nutrivene and efalex for the information packets. I also am calling our ENT and asking about a brainstem hearing test which has never been done although the OAE? has come out negative on the left ear 3 times and Nicholas doesn't have much response to noises. Anyway, thank you so much for the information that you post...I wanted you to know how much I appreciate all your advice and hearing about your experiences. Thank you. Christine (mom of 3 month old Nicholas (DS) and Jason.

Lisa - welcome aboard!! It's a great site!

Patty, thanks for letting me see the rain in a different light! It was so beautifully put!! Happy Tuesday everyone.

Lately we've been having a lot of rain here in So. California . This morning it came to my mind, when I looked out and saw all the new green after the storm, that when seeds of faith are planted, then comes new growth.

Because of all the things I have on my plate at this time, and all the storms that we've endured, this really did help me. Love, Patty

Judy, Hi I was reading your post regarding Efalex. I too was considering giving it to my little one. But after reading about the seizures Im not going to, could you please let me where you found this information regarding the seizures. Thanks so much

Hi everyone! I just found this sight (only been online since x-mas) and I think it's just wonderful. I feel like I'm walking into a room full of friends. Anyway, just thought I would introduce mysef. My daughter, Alex, is 19 months and has downs. She has a heart defect and has had 2 open heart surgeries with several bouts of congestive heart failure between the surgeries. We have also fought her refusing to eat for about 6 months. She has been surviving (but not growing) on 2 cans of pediasure a day. We started the Nutrivene last Mon and Last tues she began eating. It was like a miracle. All this last week, she has been taking at least 3 cans of Pediasure daily, plus eating all kinds of food. She has ot,pt,speech,and developmental therapies (all in our home) Right now she is starting to cruise the furniture. Alex is the most beautiful little girl I have ever seen. I was worried about people accepting her when we first got the diagosis, but people stop me all the time just to tell me how beautiful she is. God, I must sound like a candidate for the "most biased mom" award. Sorry I've rambled on so. I'm sure you will all get to know us n time. I promise not to go on and on from now on.

Hi all: I just got back from sitting with my sweet angle, and since they have started thickeing his formula with rice cerel, he have not kept a feeding down since early this morning. He is on Losec for the acid, and then he takes a drug that is suspose to make his tummy empty faster so that it will not sit and come up on him. This, unfortunately, does not seem to be working. I am going to take a trip to the drug store and see if I can find the Enfomil AL, that a couple of people has spoken about. It sure cannot make it any worse for him, and worth a try. He had a wonderful surprise for Gram today, he is trying to sit up by himself, and doing a good job, I might add. Of course his Gram was really excited, and just happened to have her camera to catch this on film. I sure hope we can get this vomiting under control, as his oxygen is now down almost to a liter, which mean he will be able to come home sometime this week, if the other gets straingtened out. Thanks for all your support, what would I do without you. Lots of love and prayers are going out to each of you and your little ones, and please keep my sweet Aiden in yours. God does answer prayer. Love Mary & Aiden

Mary/Aiden's Gram, My son was on Enfamil AR like Diana's son. It is a great product...so easy to use and it really does the trick. Hardly any spitting up. You should check into it. It really may help.

Does anyone's child receive Music Therapy?

If so,is it beneficial and what is the focus. I guess What I am asking is for experiences and knowledge about music therapy. I'm thinking about asking for it for Peter soon. Thanks

Happy Monday! Well, here is Cypress, CA we have the day off from school! I take care of my girlfriend's kids so my daughter and her older girl are running me ragged. It is raining outside so they are stir crazy. They are singing to Britney Spears and Backstreet Boys (The girls are 6yrs and 5yrs so it is funny to watch)! Sidney the baby I watch has had a stomach viral thing since last Friday so she is pissy! But Russell, good ole Russell, he is happy and smiley like always. He is such a delight to watch! He loves when we do "Patty Cake"! We did it all weekend. He can do the clapping in the beginning and do the "throw it in the air" part. Sort of. He puts his hands up sometimes when you get to that part. And he laughs, and laughs and laughs!!!

I JUST WANT TO SAY THAT I AM VERY MOTIVATED WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE DOWN SYNDROME. I KNOW SOME PEOPLE, ESPECIALLY KIDS THAT HAVE DOWN SYNDROME, GO THROUGH SOME TOUGH TIMES IN THEIR LIVES. I LOOK UP TO THEM.

Tina,

LOL, I hear you.CAN"T WIN FOR LOSIN'

Found this and thought I would post it.Sounded appropriate(sp).

~~friends are angels who lift us up to~~

our feet when our wings are having trouble

~~~~remembering how to fly !!!!!!!~~~~

Ro

Ro,
I hear ya... ;)
The 3 older girls had school, and Stevie-Marie didn't..they moaned and cried and Stevie got up BEGGIN' to go "L-i-i-i-i-de" (slide) with Wil-l-l-l-l-l....speech therapy -and my naggin'- startin' to pay off.. ;) Recess seems to hold little incentive for the older kids.. LOL
Have a great day , all..
Tina

Cindy,

I know that it is President day but we went today. Our county schools all went. We get out on the 28 and 29 for some reason:) All I know is when they have to go I fight to get them up and when they are out they are up at the crack of dawn:) I can't win for losin'.

RO:)

RO- Isn't it a holiday for your kids?? Are yours the only kids at school today? It's presidents day in Oregon!

Good Morning Uno Mas:)

I have thrown my kids from their beds (literally), and it is off to school.

It was easier today since baseball started practice:)

If you don't go to school you don't go to PRACTICE.

Neddless to say they fell over each other getting ready:)

Am I bad?:)

ro

p.s. anything that works:)

Just reading everyone's posts on chicken pox vaccine. I am a RN and work for our local health dept. in the immunization clinic. The vaccine is given after one year of age and at this time lifetime immunity is thought to occur. However it is not 100% effective, as no vaccine is. My daughter with ds recieved the vaccine after her first bithday and did have a reaction of about 5 pox. No fever and they did not blister. She was not considered contagious. From all my reading this is a good thing because it shows she has developed immunity. It is currently not mandatory in all states, but probaly will be soon. You may find it is cheeper at your local health dept. so check there. I believe all children should have this vaccine unless contraindicated by medical reasons. Even one death per year from this disease is too many. On a lighter side, Jessica is now 3 and has been in pre k for 5 months and is fully included and doing great!!!

Marie-where are you? I miss talking to you. Hope all is well!

Brenda-I really appreciate your prayers. I'd be more than happy to add Anna to my list.

Tina-Your heart is HUGE too!!!

Brenda,

This little girl,Anna, Has a great friend and let them know we will be thinking of and sending our prayers her way.

LOVE RO

Brenda,

This little girl,Anna, Has a great friend and let them know we will be thinking of and sending our prayers her way.

LOVE RO

Gosh, I was expecting my post to be above Steffi's post, looks funny above Brenda's. I am not a very religious person, but I will keep this little girl in my thoughts. I can't imagine anyone going through 8 heart surgeries. Loren

That is sooo cute! I guess you couldn't stay mad for long. Thanks for the chuckle. Loren

Hello everyone, I'm posting thih morning to ask for your prayers,Three weeks ago I ask you to pray for my best freinds son who had to have heart surgery, Well he's home now and doing well except can't get his BP regulated,While he was In ICU I met a family the Cooks who's daughter had just had her 8th heart sugery and was having a hard time but doing as well as could be expected, These parent's were great lending a hand when other parents needed a break and a shoulder for my freind Shari when she needed support.They are Christians and called Shari this morning asking for prayers.Anna is going down hill prity fast, it's not looking good,So could we all hold Anna and her parents in our prayers today please.

Thanks Brenda

Hi everyone. Happy Sunday!!I hafta tell you something very funny. This morning I found my 2 yr. old Olivia in the bathroom unrolling the toilet paper. My 3 yr. old had left the door open. I said to Olivia, you stop that right now. She looked up at me and said, "now, one doo, ree.(1,2,3 mom's interpretation)So I laughed and asked her Olivia will you count for me and once again she said one, doo, ree. She even held out her fingers . She's so darn cute.

Hey everyone,

I have been away for awhile and just read up on the post.

It is great to see all the news and I acually cried when I read about Aiden:) I didn't realize how close I actually held it:) I really was upset when it was first posted.

Oliver is another:) I just get tied up in all this and I really feel as if you are my extended family.:)

Tina,

I really enjoyed trying to chat the other night and I hope the kids get feeling better real soon:)Tell Stevie he has to share that chocolate cake :)

Ro

Yes, Brenda, your heart is in the right place..and also HUGE...thank you for the well wishes...Stevie-Marie's throat is better..Cass is still wheezing, but doin' pretty good..and Steve is lovin' his chocolate cake.. :)
*hugs* to you guys and especially lil' Billy..
Tina

Mary, Great news about Aiden!

Sorry for all the erro's, and bad spelling ,But my hearts in the right place, Brenda

Mary, GREAT NEWS,hope all keeps looking up.

Denise hope your feeling well today, Keeping you in my prayers

Elena soglad to here Oliversis out and feeling better,Hope they continue to get better and better.

Tina hope everyone is felling better today, AS always keeping you all in my prayers.

Welcome, Welcome, Welcome Toni this a wonderful site.

Melissa Billy takes the Nebulizer tretments and falls asleep prity often while taking them also.And to everyone else just so your not left out have a HAPPY DAY...Brenda

Judi -thank you for the info on Efalex. Makes me think twice before going out and wanting to try it. Mary Congratulations on Aiden's diagnosis. I pray all will go well for him. My son Bryce also had the reflux, but the dr. never seemed to concerned about it. He is one and a half it gets tiring cleaning up after him. Things have gotten better now that he is sitting and standing up along furniture. The dr.says he will out grow it. In the mean time I pray it isn't affecting his esophagous.

Mary/Aidens Gram My son also had reflux,he was on meds for it and it helped some but what really helped was a formula called enfamil AR (meaning added rice) it had the same consistancy as regular formula but when it hits the stomach it expands making it easier to keep down.It also has the same calories as regular formula and the good thing is you dont have to make the nipple any larger because of the thickining occuring after it hits the tummy.Just though this might be helpful to you.It sure worked for Jarrett.

Regarding the chicken pox stuff-

Kaylee and Emma both had it last summer. LOTS of chicken pox, and a few days of not feeling to well-but other then that it was a piece of cake. Lots of oatmeal baths and yummy popsicles and fun stuff to snack on. I think we watched movies for 3 days straight. Anways, Kaylee was 5 and Emma was 3. We did fine with it. Kaylee has DS (for those of you who don't know us)

To Mary- Yeah for Aiden, and for a second opinion! I'm sorry, but doesn't that just make you a little mad that they were misdiagnosing the poor guy?? We've had some problems lately with our doc, and when I read your story it sure makes me want to go out and get a second opinion!! So glad he's doing better-you are a great gramma to be so involved, on the internet, and providing support for the family. Don't stop!! :)

Greetings to all that are looking and searching for answers to our questions. I to rsearched for many years and spent many dollars. My son was diagnosed brain damaged at birth - he is now 7 yrs. old in a public school and a regular clas. I have seen so much work done DS children, and positive changes. The intellect, cognitive, manual skills -unbelievable. I took all my research and wanted to make it available to all parents to save time and money. I created two videos. One it titled Your child and ADD/ADHD - although this may not be your "label" don't let that fool you. We have doctors and specialist talking about structure determines function and nutrition for CBS expert. This tape can help all of us. (oh, for you out there with colic and reflux - a chiropractor specializing in children should be able to help you) The second tape is Programming the dysfunctional brain. We teach neurological developmental stages and neurological organization. Why the brain can and cannot perform certain tasks. Although the children are DS we can still tap into the unused portions of the brain and try and make more conenctions. Please check out my site www.addhope.com I'm not sure if both tapes are listed on my site yet, if not go to Amazon.com and look under their titles. Please remember so much new information is coiming down the road for us, so don't just accept what you are getting now, be willing to be open and explore. A diagnosis is only a beginning point and not the end. I believe "Never take hope away from anyone, it may be all they have left". Plese feel free to contact me researchpatty@ol.com I'm like you P.M.H.B. Professional Mother Human Being With Love, Hope and Peace Patty Sayih

Adrianne: I don't know the drug that they have been giving Aiden for his reflux, but I can find out from his mom the next time I am talkint to her. Probably, I will be going down to sit with him the first of the week, so can get the name of it then. I am so full of joy, and so hyped up, that I have not been able to settle down to go to bed yet. I will continue to keep you advised of his progress, and if I can be of some help to anyone, please feel free to contact me, even if you just need someone to talk to. You are a wonderful bunch of people, I will not forget you, Love from Aiden and Gram

Since we are still on the Chicken Pox thing I double checked Russell's vacination records. He did have the vacine at 12 months. He never had a reaction to it either. Like I said in the previous post my Dr. is highly against Russell getting it. I actually feel more reassured from you guys whos kids have had it already that have DS. It doesn't seem as bad as the Doc makes it out to be. I do know there can be complications though, else he wouldn't have brought it up.

Mary / Aiden's gram - Congrats on the good news! Wow, you have shed chronic reflux light to me. Since Russell has it. I am glad he is going to the GI doctor next month to make sure his esophogus and other parts are ok. What kind of meds is Aiden on? I know Propulsid didn't work. I am going to ask the DR about the surgery option and if it is for us.

Have a good weekend everyone!!! Adrienne

Hello! I was reading the posts about the chicken pox and I believe that you can ask for a titer, which is a test that shows the amount of immunity you have to the chicken pox. I had only a mild case when I was young and got a titer when I was pregnant because I work with children. Even though my mother said I only had about 5 pox, I did have an immunity to them, so it was okay. Hope this helps out! :)

My four month old daughter, Emily, has Down symdrome. My husband and I have been reading about the vitamin therapy for DS. We are uncertain whether to start Emily on this treatment or not. We have spoken to our Pediatrician and a Geneicist about this treatment and both were very vague in their opinions. Can anyone share their experience with us? Thank you Meredith & Lee Ford

Denise,
No, we did not see the Extra show tonight, but have watched one on the plastic surgery before...and actually even though it is VERY controversial...I had told Steve (my DH) that the only way I would EVER consider it would be if Stevie-Marie is very 'high-functioning' and no one gives her the time of day due to the obvious "downs" features..not at all because we are ashamed of her or trying to hide anything. My mind was soon made up to NEVER EVER put her through all that for any reason!! :) And as she gets older, it is also evident that when she wants to get her point across...heads WILL turn..LOL appearance or not.. :) Besides, to me (and I am VERY biased) the little ones I saw after the surgery looked just like Stevie-Marie does now.. :)
JMHO *hugs* Tina

Did anybody see the show on EXTRA tonite about the parents who got plastic surgery done on their 20 month old daughter Merideth who has Down syndrome. I just can't understand why any parent would do that to their child. It's not like her face is a mutation. And what kind of message is that sending to your child, that their not okay the way God made them.

Stevie also has the problem of always wanting to eat, never being full and flipping out if I won't feed him. It wasn't a problem when he was little but now he is starting to gain wait because of it. I just decided I had to be the mean mom and ration the food. It's in his best interest.

Marie-Just got out of the hospital again. Do you think it's ever going to end. Just 7 more days til I go to Philly for the angiogram. I hope I last that long. Have a good nite.

Amen...Amen...and Amen!!!! *hugs* to Aiden, Gram, and family..wonderful news..Have a terrific evening. Luv, Tina