Kenosha, Wisconsin
Louise was born in Pensacola Fl on October 26 1990. I had a normal pregnancy but something told me something wasn't right from about 6 months on. My Husband and I even discussed DS after our 7 months blood check which came back normal. I was in hard labor for 45 minutes. She popped out, screamed and I held up my arms to hold my baby, empty arms. Much to my dismay I protested and wanted to know what was going on. They had to take her to the ICU and put her under a oxygen tent as she was having a hard time breathing.
What seemed hours later, the doc came and told us that she was having some problems but I could go and see her, but not hold her. My heart yearned to hold my baby and I cried in agony as I saw this little being totally helplessly fighting for every breath and wandered what the future was going to hold. All I remember at that moment was that I wanted the comfort of my mother's arms who, at the time, was in Bermuda waiting for the news of the birth.
Several hours later Louise was medavacked to Kessler Air Force Base where she was interbated and put in the ICU. She was there for 5 days. The first time I got to hold her was absolutely amazing. I felt as if I had been given a million dollars. After 5 days, we got to go home. The grandparents arrived and visited for a while. We then moved to a new house. Louise was having a lot of feeding issues and was taking forever to eat 2oz due to poor suck. She was getting sicker and sicker, skinnier and skinnier. On Dec 31 (day b4 operation desert storm started and all the docs and specialists were called to duty,) we were again medavacked to Kessler. This time due to RSV. They told me had I been another 15 minutes, she probably wouldn't have made it.
During the next 4 months (3 of which she spent in ICU) she had her appendix removed, a meckles on her bowel removed and a g tube placed. After the gtube she wouldn't take anything at all by mouth (she had also had a Nissen Fundleplication due to significant reflux.). We spent the next three years trying to teach her to eat. She was in intervention, which I believe, is why she is where she is today. She was medically involved for the next three years. Behaviorally, was a handful. Like having three year old triplets (single mum by this time).
On entering school she was put in a contained classroom and did very well. She is still in a contained classroom and teachers "sing her praises" on how smart she is etc, etc. I hold high hopes for Louise. When she is older, and doesn't need me so much, for her benefit, I am seeking alternative arrangements for her such as a group home. This may sound cruel to some however unless my home situation changes dramatically, (sis and Lou don't get along) I believe this would be best for Louise and her needs. I have spoken with her caseworker and she is in agreement.
Louise is a very happy social 16 year old. She has no medical issues per say and is learning every day how to live in the "real world" She loves people and loves to please. She has one special friend (female) who is "physically challenged". I am hoping she will develop further friendships and be able to live with minimal support.
This is my story. I am very happy to share it with you all. May God bless you in all your endeavors to advocate and be parents to your children. Emma A. Reynolds
Several hours later Louise was medavacked to Kessler Air Force Base where she was interbated and put in the ICU. She was there for 5 days. The first time I got to hold her was absolutely amazing. I felt as if I had been given a million dollars. After 5 days, we got to go home. The grandparents arrived and visited for a while. We then moved to a new house. Louise was having a lot of feeding issues and was taking forever to eat 2oz due to poor suck. She was getting sicker and sicker, skinnier and skinnier. On Dec 31 (day b4 operation desert storm started and all the docs and specialists were called to duty,) we were again medavacked to Kessler. This time due to RSV. They told me had I been another 15 minutes, she probably wouldn't have made it.
During the next 4 months (3 of which she spent in ICU) she had her appendix removed, a meckles on her bowel removed and a g tube placed. After the gtube she wouldn't take anything at all by mouth (she had also had a Nissen Fundleplication due to significant reflux.). We spent the next three years trying to teach her to eat. She was in intervention, which I believe, is why she is where she is today. She was medically involved for the next three years. Behaviorally, was a handful. Like having three year old triplets (single mum by this time).
On entering school she was put in a contained classroom and did very well. She is still in a contained classroom and teachers "sing her praises" on how smart she is etc, etc. I hold high hopes for Louise. When she is older, and doesn't need me so much, for her benefit, I am seeking alternative arrangements for her such as a group home. This may sound cruel to some however unless my home situation changes dramatically, (sis and Lou don't get along) I believe this would be best for Louise and her needs. I have spoken with her caseworker and she is in agreement.
Louise is a very happy social 16 year old. She has no medical issues per say and is learning every day how to live in the "real world" She loves people and loves to please. She has one special friend (female) who is "physically challenged". I am hoping she will develop further friendships and be able to live with minimal support.
This is my story. I am very happy to share it with you all. May God bless you in all your endeavors to advocate and be parents to your children. Emma A. Reynolds
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