Our beautiful Graci is now two years old. She has been such a blessing to our entire family and has really changed our lives in the most amazing ways. It's funny, when you first have a baby with Down Syndrome, you hear that statement over and over again. "She is a blessing and will truly change your lives." But, it's hard in the moment to imagine how much things will change. It is magical indeed... watching friends and family as their eyes are opened, minds are changed and spirits lifted just by being a part of Graci's life.
One of the best parts of having a child with a disability is the complete celebration of every single milestone. We celebrated when we saw her hands come to center, when she rolled over for the first time, when she transferred toys from one hand to the other, when she sat up on her own... every single little thing she did was celebrated. When you think your child may never be able to do those things, you really take notice when they do. That's part of the magic as mentioned above. Nothing is taken for granted.
In the past two years, we have made it through a stay in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), heart medications, open heart surgery, nasal issues, hematology issues, constipation, feeding issues and a complete lack of knowledge about Down Syndrome. We've worked with in-home early intervention, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and even a massage therapist. It is unbelievable still that most of these therapies, at least here in California... (and at least for now - budget cuts are always threatening special needs care) are free. And that's a good thing too because we've also been faced with a job loss followed by a career change. International travel as a Software Consultant didn't really line up with the therapy sessions necessary for Graci. (Watch for a post on how we fixed the constipation, feeding and job loss issues)
We've decided to put this blog together to help guide folks who are pregnant with, have just had a baby with or who may be adopting a baby with Down Syndrome to help guide them through the first few years. There are so many resources available and early intervention is key to helping your baby get off to the best start possible. Graci is two now and we forget so much of the time that she has Down Syndrome. She's just Graci and we couldn't possibly love her any more!
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