Therapeutic Horseback Riding
The benefits of equine therapy are vast. Both children are deepening their respect and compassion for another living creature, as well as building confidence and self-esteem for their bravery and strength.
Category Archives: Medical
Easy and Difficult Days with Sensory Processing Disorder
We cannot segregate children like Hope away and pretend that it’s for their own good. We cannot force these children into a mold, but we must instead build a support system around each of their unique shapes. This was always the intention behind governmental disability protections, but our systems are falling far short of what our loved ones deserve.
Action NEEDED by February 9
Right now the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is drafting guidelines for their Coverage with Evidence Development in the use of the new Alzheimer’s drug, aducanumab, excluding people with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). A quick comment from you could change the course of Hope’s life! Please help.
Hope’s Fever of Unknown Origin
Hope was admitted to the hospital four years ago today, yet this is the first time we’ve had to acknowledge the anniversary, thanks to common years safeguarding the memory since 2016. I’ve long promised the story of her 105-degree fever, so here we go.
Hope’s New ID Bracelet
Since Hope was a newborn, I have found myself in tears several times over the thought of someone kidnapping her and how helpless she would be. This is of course extreme—a sensational story pieced together from movie plots and anxiety—and there are more realistic events that could lead to Hope becoming lost.
Tackling Hearing Loss and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
In a few days, we send Hope for ear tubes and an adenotonsillectomy. But unlike her heart surgery, this is technically elective.
Hope is not an Anti-Dentite!
I’ve never felt like anyone else we know when it comes to Hope’s teeth. Hope was a year old when her first tooth broke through, and it took over 2 months to come all the way down; the pediatrician said to expect 2 to 4 weeks.
Hope’s Open Heart Surgery, Pt 3: Our Final Day
During Hope’s hospital stay, the days and nights all blended together. The sun kept our internal clocks on track, but our days didn’t start until the medical team made its […]
Putting Hope’s Sleep Issues to Rest
Hope underwent her sleep study this past August, referred by her developmental pediatrician following recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics to screen for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children […]
Hope’s Open Heart Surgery, Pt 2: Graduating from the PCICU
Eight days passed between Hope’s operation and her hospital discharge, which may not seem like a long time, but the days passed slowly and painfully. When Hope emerged from surgery, […]