If you missed part 1 of Chloe's heart story, you can find it here: PART 1: SURGERY Intensive Care I had to catch my breath when I saw little Chloe all wired up on that huge bed. She was hardly recognisable with all those tubes and wires everywhere and the ventilator on her face didn't help either. To give her body a complete rest, the ventilator did all her breathing for her while she … [Read more...]
When Chloe’s broken heart was mended Part 1: Surgery
With Chloe's recent first birthday behind us, I have spent many moments lately thinking about her heart surgery. Wow. Heart surgery. A time in my life that was such a blur and if it weren't for the scars on Chloe's chest and tummy, I probably wouldn't even believe it actually happened. I am so pleased to say that the wonderful surgeon did an amazing job and her heart is working 'normally' … [Read more...]
She’s One
This day last year, I sat for hours in the hospital, waiting for my name to be called so I could finally meet my baby. I was so afraid of what was about to happen. I was scared of her heart condition and the surgery she would need to have. I was scared of Down syndrome. And scared of this new, unknown life that was being forced on me. "She will be blue and floppy" … [Read more...]
The Road to Acceptance
It was exactly a year ago today that I received that phone call. The one where I was told that my unborn baby had Down syndrome. In that moment, my life changed and I completely fell apart. But over the last 12 months, I have managed to put myself back together and I believe that I am now a better, stronger and happier version of my former self. Sometimes it takes life … [Read more...]
Milestones
Last week, Andrew and I had a "Goal Setting" meeting with Chloe's Early Intervention team. It was really reassuring and exciting to remember where Chloe was at 6 months ago when we started these sessions and to take note of what she has accomplished. Six months ago, Chloe was barely rolling over and today, she is rolling all over the place and so much more!She is … [Read more...]
Happiness is…
Today, I took Chloe to the Opthamologist to see if her eyes have any of the problems that can be associated with Down syndrome. This was just a routine check. I had no concerns so wasn't worried about this appointment. I was however, a bit stressed as we walked down the street to the clinic. It took ages to find a parking spot and when I did, it was miles away. I also made a … [Read more...]
Supermoon
Last night, the moon was the biggest, brightest and closest to the earth that it will be all year. I didn't even know what a 'supermoon' was or that it was last night until I read a post on Facebook. I love the quote that was written too: "Tonight, the moon will turn into a full moon, and into the 'supermoon', lighting up the sky at its brightest, shining on us and encouraging us … [Read more...]
World Down Syndrome Day 2012
It's World Down Syndrome day today. I hadn't planned anything specific to acknowledge today but I have given Chloe heaps of extra cuddles and kisses and I am sure that when Andrew gets home from work this afternoon, he will too. I wrote this piece a few weeks ago and thought it would be fitting to share today. Imagine you are riding on a train. And on … [Read more...]
Cinnamon and Turmeric
In life, there are so many people to admire. There are those who have become successful and fulfilled their dreams. Those who are talented and achieve success from these talents. Those who have overcome hurdles, beat the odds and triumphed. Those who make a difference and do wonderful things for others. And there are those who show you the way and make you … [Read more...]