Madeleine and her twin brother Reid were born prematurely at 25 weeks gestation. Their parents, Alana and Matt were told that Madeleine may end up with cerebral palsy due to multiple brain hemorrhages she experienced at birth. After waiting to see…
Two years ago, Alex Lewis contracted a common cold, which triggered a bacterial infection Strep A, also known as toxic shock syndrome. As a result, his arms, legs, and lips were amputated. Not only did it affect his physical health, it also…
People who use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters, or crutches, are likely used to the scrutiny of the general public: stares that range from curious to intrusive, and questions that run the spectrum of polite to rude. Doctor Lisa…
As a young adult, Abdi’s loving parents have helped to shape him into a confident and independent person. Growing up with cerebral palsy, Abdi has some perspectives on how parents can support their children with disabilities, so that they…
Jarene was born six week premature, and when doctors told her mother, Sally, that Jarene was unable to swallow, Sally admits she was initially shocked, and didn’t fully understand all the implications of this statement. https://youtu.be/0AQdr1ilgW0 From the moment Jarene…
For expectant mothers, routine prenatal care is recommended by obstetricians to monitor both mother and baby’s health during pregnancy. Evaluations of blood pressure, weight, uterine size, and fetal heart activity are all standard practices during prenatal visit. Doctor Lisa Iezzoni and…
A mother of three, Sheila Black was the first person in her family diagnosed with X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH). XLH is caused by a mutation in the PHEX gene, which results in a form of dwarfism. People with XLH are often…
The world of parenting is filled with so many emotions: joy, excitement, and that proud feeling you get when your kid accomplishes a monumental task are things most parents experience on this journey. But there’s also other feelings parents often…
Lauren is a new mother. She has faced criticism from others who doubted her ability to be a parent. And that is because Lauren has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Her decision to be a parent came after careful and responsible…
Sarah was born with arthrogryposis multiplex congenital (AMC), a rare disorder that severely limits movement and strength in her shoulders, arms, wrists, and hands. Sarah has learned to adapt to life by primarily using her feet and toes to complete…