Oftentimes when a parents learns their child has a developmental delay or disability, it can be overwhelming for them, and many say they don’t know where to begin. A mom can now breathe a sign of relief after her daughter got the help she needed from The Warren Center.
Edith was born with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia, resulting in cardiac issues and chronic lung disease. The hernia was repaired at one month of age. Edith spent 8 months in the hospital, then was discharged home on oxygen and G-tube feedings. She was showing developmental delays, especially in feeding and motor skills.
Coming home from the hospital, Edith’s mom felt a “mix of emotions.” She was thrilled that Edith was finally out of the hospital, but also scared and nervous about everything she was going to have to face. Edith’s mom said she even felt helpless and that she had “failed” as a parent. Edith had a strong oral aversion, meaning she would gag from even the touch of water on her body and refused anything near her mouth. She could not sit up or crawl yet. Her mom felt helpless because she wanted to move and play, but did not yet know how to move her body independently.
Edith started early childhood intervention with The Warren Center in January 2021. She has been receiving occupational therapy for motor skills and speech therapy for feeding and speech.
In the past two years, Edith has made tremendous progress in all areas of development. She is now walking independently and beginning to walk up and down stairs. She no longer demonstrates oral aversion, and is now interested in eating everything her family is eating during family meal times. She is feeding herself and eating several foods orally. She is now tolerating water and enjoying bath time. She is using gestures, words, and signs independently to communicate with others. She loves singing songs and imitating hand motions in songs.
Edith’s mom is now feeling very happy and at peace that her daughter has made so much progress. The mom says, “I feel a weight lifted off my shoulders because at first I felt a sense of guilt that I had failed her. I could not be more proud of myself and Edith for getting to where we are today.”
View this post on Instagram
