It seems that our worry and concern about Aubrey's physical development comes and goes in waves. However, for the past few days Matt and I have both been feeling really sad and discouraged about it. It is especially difficult when we are around other families with children that are the same age and younger than Bree, but can do so much more than her. It is hard not to feel a sense of failure when I spend so much of my days stretching and exercising Aubrey so her muscles will get stronger, and then not see results! I HATE taking her to physical therapy, and feeling like I don't have anything to show for all that has been done over the past two weeks. It is also very frustrating to know that we won't see the neurologist again until December. The constant unknown is killing us. Is there something more serious going on with her that we don't know about? Will she ever be able to sit, crawl, walk? Will she struggle her whole life? Whenever we see friends and family they always tell us she is looking stronger...but why don't we see it? Are people just saying that because they don't want us to worry? It is just so hard right now. Like any parent, we just want our child to have every opportunity in this life.
One thing is for sure...Aubrey is a happy girl. And knowing that brings so much peace into my heart. It is comforting to know that she isn't bothered by her physical limitations. She smiles all day long. She loves to play with her daddy. She takes 3 naps a day and sleeps all through the night. We couldn't have been blessed with a sweeter baby, and we are incredibly thankful for the love she brings into our home.
P.S. On another positive note...Bree has finally taken to solid food! Yay!!
4 comments:
that picture is so cute...it really shows how happy bree is, like you said. i think it's amazing how every baby is so different, and every baby is so perfect in their own way. they come with their own gifts and talents right off the bat; it's incredible to see how every child has their own personality, identity, and --yes-- challenges.
i want to validate your feelings of concern and worry, but at the same time i want to reassure you that, like you said, bree is so sweet and happy and easygoing, and she is WHO SHE IS. and if her physical development is a challenge (for both of you), there will be other areas that come quickly and easily to her, areas that other children (and their parents) will have to struggle to get through. i'm proud of you for persevering with her exercises and the physical therapy.
i can tell just by looking at the pictures on the blog how securely attached and bonded she is to you and matt...so you're doing your job. don't feel like you're failing in any way; you're creating a wonderful attachment in your family and that's the most important thing you can be doing right now.
Thank you, Missy. You always know the right things to say:)
ditto what missy said! there are lots of unhappy babies who may be able to crawl and sit, but they don't feel the love from their parents that your daughter enjoys. i'm glad that she is blessed with parents who care so much about her well-being and are willing and able to devote so much time to helping her to grow and develop, even though the results may not be noticeable right now, they certainly will in the future. and you're definitely seeing one result now--a loving and happy child who knows absolutely that her parents adore her!
My heart goes out to you Meg. We can really empathize with how you feel. Halle has always been on the slow side with things, and is still behind other babies her age or even those a few months younger. It's hard! We just want the best for our children. And you are definitly giving her opportunities to have the best things in life. Aubrey reminds me of Halle in another way too - they may be behind others physically, but when it comes to being social and happy, they are far above the others! And at times that may not seem important, but trust me, it is!!
Post a Comment