Teens with Down Syndrome Elected to Homecoming Courts</h1> <article> <h1>Teens with Down Syndrome Elected to Homecoming Courts</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 03:03:48 +0000</p> <p>One of my biggest fears as a parent of special needs children is if they will feel included as they reach the secondary setting. Right now they are little. Their peers are starting to notice that there are some differences. One little boy in my son with Down syndrome’s Sunday school class told his mother, “I like playing with him. He listens while I talk!” I does not seem to bother him that J is nonverbal. Right now it is not that big of a deal. However, I have noticed that some of J’s peers are starting to move ahead of him developmentally, and so that little worry bug starts buzzing in my ears. That is why I love hearing stories like the following:</p> <p><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2044716/Mariah-Slick-Down-Syndrome-Azle-High-School-pupil-homecoming-queen.html?ito=feeds-newsxml">Texas high school student with Down syndrome voted Homecoming queen</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/961c05e544964d459f4ac2e0812131c9/MS--Homecoming-Down-Syndrome/">Student with Down syndrome voted homecoming queen</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.wcnc.com/news/local/High-Schoolers-vote-senior-with-downs-syndrome-onto-homecoming-court-131218539.html">Senior with Down syndrome voted onto homecoming court</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>A Good Day</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 18:33:33 +0000</p> <p>Today has been one of those days, at least to me. The children , unfortunately, have all inherited seasonal allergies from their parents and are half sick, so I decided to keep them home from school. It was a half day anyway. Why in the world would I want to load the miserable crew into the van just to go to school for two or three hours, especially considering that Luke and Joshua’s schools are about 25 minutes apart from one another. No. Not having that today. Anyway, they were fairly grumpy, whiny, and I swear they have mastered the skill of synchronized pooping. I mean I’ve heard of women living together syncing their cycles, but this has gotten ridiculous. To top it all off, I ran into the kitchen responding to the sound of Josh’s cries to find that Lucy had put a laundry basket over him and was sitting on top of it. She looked very proud of herself</p> <p>Needless to say by nap time I was over it. I put the younger two to bed and got to work on some much needed cleaning. I have neglected the walls of late and finally decided that it was almost embarrassing the amount of dried chocolate milk droplets and evidence of Lucy’s “artwork” that had collected on them over the past few months. I was down on my hands and knees scrubbing when Luke came in and said “Kiss my cheek Mommy!” Of course I can never deny such a sweet request. Then he said “Its been a good day!” What!? I thought. With all the weeping, wailing, and gnashing of teeth? The dirty house and runny noses? Its been a good day? But then I had to think about it. What about the movie we watched with all of them cuddled up on my lap? The good lunch we ate. The music we listened to and the bubbles I blew while the kids danced around me yelling “Pop! Pop! Pop!” From Luke’s perspective it had been a good day. He was surrounded by people he loved (most of the time) and doing things that he enjoyed. I had been focusing so much on the negative parts of the day, I had almost forgotten the good. I guess I should look at life from a five-year-old’s perspective more often.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Remembering Samantha</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 02:21:36 +0000</p> <p>An angel flew home to heaven last week. I did not know Samantha, but she went through cancer treatments at the same time as my friend Jennifer’s son Hatcher and they had become close. Hatcher was healed by God here on Earth and Samantha was healed by being taken home. Her father wrote something very heartfelt on her caring bridge page and I don’t think he would mind if I shared it.</p> <p><a href="http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/samanthaarnett/journal/2">http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/samanthaarnett/journal/2</a></p> <p>It is the post dated Sept. 9, 2010. The part that stood out to me the most was when he said: ” He (God) has blessed us with the time we had with her and it isn’t like he took something from us that was not his to begin with. Yes, we did dedicate Samantha to Him when she was a baby. That is merely symbolic, we are all property of God. We call him Lord and yet forget what that means.”</p> <p>Amen</p> <p>Please keep the family of this remarkable little girl in your prayers. She is at peace, healed and whole. It is the rest of us who must deal with the sorrows of this world and wait for the time when we can be called to be with Him in His glory.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Update</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 01:58:15 +0000</p> <p>It has been a long time since I’ve written. Not because I did not want to, but life got the better of us. This past year has been hard with my grandfather entering into the last months of his life with his battle with cancer, to the news that my older son, Luke, has Pervasive Developmental Disorder or PDD. This was particularly hard to take. PDD is on the Autism spectrum and I all I could think about during the diagnosis process was a conversation I had with a friend the day after Joshua’s birth. Jon is my best friend’s husband and we went to college together. After they transported Joshua to Vanderbilt’s NICU I sent most of my family to be with him as I could not leave the hospital yet. Jon came in after they had left and said “I don’t know what to say.” Which I really appreciated. I looked at him and said “At least its not Autism. I don’t know if I could handle that.” I did not know then how that statement would come back to haunt me.<br /> We’ve had a difficult past few months coming to term with the fact that not only will Luke have to deal with a medical syndrome, but these learning and social issues as well. For the first time I really got angry with God over life and the direction in which it was going . I realize that all of this is happening for a reason, though I may not see what that is right now. The important thing is that Luke is doing well in school and seems to be happy. What more could a mother want. Right now he is being pulled out with the hopes that we can slowly incorporate him into the regular classroom without having to rely on an aide.<br /> Joshua is thriving at his school. I really think he is a shining example of why Down Syndrome should probably be called “Up Syndrome” instead. He is such a happy, loving child who loves the outdoors, reading books, and giving hugs.<br /> I am really going to make an effort to keep up with this blog. I found that writing was such a great therapy outlet for me and I miss it.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Wasted Money</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 03:54:42 +0000</p> <p>by Honey Denson</p> <p>A few weeks ago, I sat down with my son’s early intervention teacher for a conference. She looked at me at said, “Joshua is the perfect example of how early intervention works”</p> <p>My heart soared. This is exactly what I needed to hear. Sometimes raising a child with special needs is like trying to navigate in the dark with no help. The future is so uncertain, but with a lot of faith and hope, parents cope with it one day at a time. Each comment in the positive is like a pinpoint of light in that darkness. It brings a glimmer of optimism that your child will be able to live a more “typical” life.</p> <p>Early Intervention really is the key, but it seems as though it gets very little funding compared to other seemingly unnecessary programs. This year, early intervention in the state of Tennessee is getting an 8 million dollar boost thanks to Uncle Sam’s stimulus, but that seems like small change compared to the $600 million dollar convention center that they are trying to build in Nashville. They are claiming that the revenue from this convention center will give an economic boost to Middle Tennessee, but we should just overlook the fact that it is going to take at least 20 years (if that) just to break even on it.</p> <p>Imagine taking that money and investing it on children. Premature infants who just 10 years ago would have died for being born too early, are coming home and need a lot of help to catch up for those missed months in the womb. Some children with Down Syndrome have nearly normal IQs thanks to early intervention and are able to function in typical classrooms, graduate high school, and have jobs that contribute to our economy instead of being forced to live in institutions or be dependent on government assistance. There is so much that can be done, but isn’t. Our state does not even have enough funds to hire new Early Intervention teachers. Nashville schools are in trouble. The <a href="http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/tennesseepathfinder/page.aspx?id=1205" target="_blank">family support programs</a> are in danger of being cut, and, for some families, that is the only financial assistance that they receive. It costs at least twice as much to raise a child with special needs than a typical child. Insurance does not cover everything and many of us do not qualify for any other assistance due to income. I don’t care how much money you make, not many families can afford $1000 a month formula or 20% of a NICU stay considering that the bed alone costs $5000 a day, or some of the durable medical equipment that insurance won’t cover because it is not “medically necessary to sustain life.” Never mind that it makes life livable for both parent and child.</p> <p>The point is that money is being wasted. Families need help. Children need a better education. Contact your local representatives to let them know how you feel. I can think of no better investment than in the education of our future generation. It is your money after all.</p> </article> <article> <h1>The most vulnerable: Special needs adoption</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:11:33 +0000</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2009/09/21/the-most-vulnerable-special-needs-adoption/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> <p>The previous video if from last year’s Christmas project for <a href="http://www.reecesrainbow.org/" target="_blank">Reece’s Rainbow</a>, a nonprofit organization that helps children with Down Syndrome find homes. There will be a new Christmas campaign this year. Keep checking back to see what you can do this year to help.</p> <p>Adoption is one of those truly beautiful things that a person can do for someone else. My father was adopted and several family friends have adopted children who otherwise would be going to bed every night without a hug, kiss, and an “I love you” if it were not for the love and willingness to adopt on the part of their parents.</p> <p>While there area thousands of children across the world waiting for a forever family, one population is often ignored. Children who have special needs are living on borrowed time. These children have been abandoned because their parents could not afford to take care of them, or they could not handle the stigma of having a child with special needs. Eventually these children wind up in institutions and die within a few years due to neglect or lack of proper medical care.</p> <p>Even if you do not feel personally called to adopt a child with special needs, you can help these children find loving homes in which they can thrive by spreading the word or donating time and/or money to help those who do want to adopt. Someone made the comment to me “Well, we can’t save everyone.” Which is true, but if we can make the difference in one child’s life, that is one child who will live knowing that they are loved and wanted. That comment made to me reminds me of the Starfish story where a man was walking on the beach after a storm and the shore was littered with hundreds of star fish that were washed up by the violent ocean. In the distance he saw a child picking up one starfish at a time and throwing them back into the ocean. The man approached the child and told him not to bother and that he could not save them all. It would make no difference. In response, the child picked up another starfish and threw it back into the waves as hard as he could. He turned to the man and told him that he made a difference to that one.</p> <p>It does not matter what you do to help these children. The important thing is that you do something. If the whole world sits back and thinks that the task is too big. There is nothing that I can do. Then nothing will be done. It is our duty and human beings to help those less fortunate and to make the world a better place. Let’s face it. The world could use a little more love and concern for those most vulnerable to neglect and indifference.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Preperation for endoscopy and colonoscopy</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:07:53 +0000</p> <div id="hidefrompromo" style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; font-size: 10px; color: #333333;"><br /> H. Denson</div> <p>Not long ago, my son Luke started to complain about stomach pain. He would sometimes stop in the middle of play, look at us with his pitiful face and say “my tummy hurt.” We were really at a loss as to what we should do. I had told our GI who wanted to give it some time. One month later, his tummy was still hurting, and I insisted that our GI do something about it. After much discussion, we decided to do a endoscopy and colonoscopy.</p> <p>These procedures involve running a tube with a camera down the throat and up the rectum to take pictures of the digestive tract. They look for any abnormalities or polyps and take very small biopsies. The child is under anesthesia during the procedure, so they have no idea what is going on, and they have no memory of it.</p> <p>The day before, we had to put Luke on an all-liquid diet. He could only have clear fluids such as Kool-Aid, apple juice, clear sodas, clear broths, Jello, and all of the Popsicles that he could eat. They told us to make sure that nothing he ate contained red food dye since that could show up as blood during the procedures. When he woke up on prep day, we fed him a huge breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and sausage. He wasn’t scheduled until 9 AM the next day, so we had until 9 that morning to feed him as much as possible before the liquid diet started. Once it did, we offered him something every hour to keep his stomach full of liquid so that he wouldn’t feel so hungry. I also dropped his younger brother and sister off with their grandmother since we did not feel that it was fair for Luke to see the other children eating, and they were too small to understand why they should not eat in front of their brother. We spend a good part of the day in distraction mode to take his mind off the fact that he was only consuming clear liquids. My husband took him to a movie in the theater, we rented a new movie, we played games and did whatever we could to keep him happy and distracted.</p> <p>The hardest part was giving him the medication to cleanse out his colon. It was recommended that we give him magnesium citrate. We had heard from several people that it was pretty nasty medicine, so I called my doctor and they told us we could give him Miralax which is tasteless, gentler, and usually does the trick. Honestly, we probably started too late because I think Miralax takes longer to work than the other medicines, but we gave him several doses mixed into whatever drink he had requested over the course of 4 hours starting at 4:30 PM the night before the procedures. He drank it with little fuss, probably wondering why we were so insistent that he drink all of his Sprite. The hardest part were giving him the suppositories. It is near impossible to give a four year old who is all ready afraid of medications a suppository. He screamed “No Thank You, No Thank You” the entire time while we held him down and squeezed his little bottom together to keep it in. It worked fairly quickly. We had to do it again at 4 AM the morning of the procedure. We were honestly afraid that he was going to have a heart attack, but it was easier. His being half asleep probably helped.</p> <p>On the day of the procedure, we arrived at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital at the bright and early time of 6 AM. I swear some hospital staff are way too happy to be awake at that time of day. We checked in, and were called back. Luke got a special pair of pajamas and a stuffed gorilla to add to his collection of simian creatures (The kid has a thing for monkeys). He played around in a child sized car until it was time to go. When they came to get him, they let him “drive” his car back to the operating room. He didn’t even miss us.</p> <p>Recovery was hard for Luke. It always is. He took a long time to wake up and when he did you would have thought that we were the meanest creatures on earth for disturbing his rest. He cried and proclaimed that he did not want to go home. I’m really hoping that that was the drugs talking because who would want to stay at the place where all of the “pokies” happen? Eventually he came to his senses. They required him to eat or drink something before we left, and they warned us not to let him climb our stairs by himself or leave him alone for long periods of time since the medications that they had given him could cause him to lose his balance easily. By the time dinner rolled around, we had our little boy back to normal.</p> <p>The tests came back clear of any physical issues. We are still at a loss as to what is causing the stomach pain, but lately it has been better. We just hope and pray that we never have to put him through that again and that the stomach pain is gone for good.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Top ten toys for developing fine motor skills in young children</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:04:00 +0000</p> <p>My Joshua has Down Syndrome, and as a result we have spent many an hour at occupational therapy working on his fine motor skills. Fine motor skills are especially important for tasks like self feeding, self dressing, and writing.</p> <p>There are many conditions that can cause fine motor delays. One thing that you might notice during therapy is your child’s occupational therapist using a lot of toys. They are using a concept called play therapy. Using play therapy makes it more fun for the child because they are usually doing activities that they enjoy. You can also take some of the play therapies that the therapist is using and incorporate them into your child’s normal play at home. Here are some great toys that can help you to do this.</p> <p><a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-6955-Nashville-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner~y2009m7d28-Top-ten-toys-for-developing-fine-motor-skills-in-young-children" target="_blank">Read More</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>More Stress? Really?</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 19:57:18 +0000</p> <p>I recently saw an <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090708153233.htm" target="_blank">article</a> that said that Mothers of Children With Autism Have More Stress. To that I can only say “You think?!” It is no secret that raising a child with a child with special needs comes with added stress. I would be quick to point out that it is worth every once of it, but that does not make it any easier.</p> <p>Parents of special needs children sometimes have to deal with therapists, extra doctor’s appointments, more meetings at schools, and, in some cases, stares of people who just don’t understand. I had a friend, who is the mother of a child with Cri Du Chat, tell me that she gets so frustrated at mothers who complain about their children having a low grade fever or on how long it takes them to get one typically developing child ready for the day. She has to tube feed her son, give him his medications, dress him, make sure that his special inserts for his shoes are put on properly and be out the door before 7 in the morning. She often laments that those parents don’t realize how easy they have it.</p> <p>Reading this article and reflecting on some of my other friend’s experiences only reminds me on how important it is that we all take care of ourselves. If we are stressed out and on the edge of jumping into the loony bin, we need to take a step back and do a little something for ourselves for a change even if that little something is shutting yourself in a closet with your favorite snack or locking the bathroom door and taking a long, hot bath. One particularly stressful morning, I put my kids in our playroom and hid on our stairs with my cup of coffee for five minutes. It helped me to gather my sanity and be a better mom for the day. I encourage all of you to do the same.</p> </article> <article> <h1>ADHD May Not Be the Problem</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 20:09:22 +0000</p> <p>Scientists are discovering that ADHD might not be the problem when it comes to your child’s hyperactivity and their inability to pay attention. For far too long these children have been lumped into one big misdiagnosed category and have had to live with the label of ADHD throughout their school days. Fortunately, more doctors are taking the time to discover the root cause of these behavior issues instead of handing out the ADHD diagnosis along with a narcotic prescription designed to calm them down.</p> <p>Just today a new article came out on MSN about a little girl who was given the label of ADHD. She had been kicked out of a preschool and put on harsh ADHD medications. Fortunately for this little girl, her pediatrician looked further into her issues and discovered that she had been misdiagnosed. She was actually suffering from sleep apnea. The symptoms of sleep apnea can closely mimic ADHD. Now, this little girl has a new outlook on life. To read this article in full, please click <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29541010/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p>If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, please consider taking the time to investigate the matter further. Some chidlren truely have ADHD, but it is believed that over time more and more children will be diagnosed with something else and will finally recieve the help that they need.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Scientists Studying a Gene that May Cause Autism and Digestive Problems</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:39:37 +0000</p> <p>It is known that 30 percent of people who have Autism also have Digestive Problems, which is higher than the general population. As a matter of fact, many parents of children with Autism who have put their children on restrictive diets have noticed an improvement in Autism symptoms. The most famous example being Jenny McCarthy’s son Evan.</p> <p>Vanderbilt University is studying gene called MET which deals with both brain cells and the gastrointestinal system , but as Daniel Campbell, a research assistant professor involved with the study says, “As scientists learn more about the disease it appears that autism is not a single disease but a spectrum of disorders with common symptoms but different causes.”</p> <p>To read more about his reaserch click <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-03-02-autism-gene_N.htm" target="_blank">here.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Down Syndrome Conference to Be Held In Tennessee</h1> <p>Honey — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:03:03 +0000</p> <p>The Fired Up! for Down Syndrome Conference will be held in Brentwood, Tn (a suburb of Nashville) This April 24-25 at the Brentwood United Methodist Church. Some of the topics that will be covered include:</p> <div class="E_split1" style="right: auto;"> <li>Speech & Language</li> <li>Medical Issues</li> <li>Child Development</li> <li>Early Intervention</li> <li>Special Education</li> <li>Universal Design</li> <li>Stress Management</li> <li>Adult Issues & more <p>For more information visit the Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee’s website<a href="http://www.dsamt.org/firedup.html" target="_blank"> here</a>.</li> </div> </article> <article> <h1>How to Prepare for the Birth of a Special Needs Child.</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:47:29 +0000</p> <p>When a woman becomes pregnant she usually fantasizes about her unborn child. Who will the baby look like? What will the baby do when he/she grows up? With the advancement of medical technology we can now learn a lot about the baby before he or she is born. We can also discover if the baby is going to have special needs. Finding out that the baby is going to be a special needs child can be devastating to some couples. There are several things that you can do to prepare yourself for the birth of your special needs child.</p> <p>For full article, <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4723934_prepare-birth-special-needs-child.html" target="_blank">click here.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Girls With Turner Syndrome May Have Children.</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:45:17 +0000</p> <p>On a recent road trip with a friend of mine, I found out that she had mosaic Turner Syndrome. I had been under the impression that women with Turner Syndrome could not have children, but she has two healthy daughters with no sign of TS. I also came across this article that talks about the possibility of having children even if you have a full case of Turner Syndrome. For more <a href="http://uk.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUKTRE51865620090209" target="_blank">read here</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Peanut Butter Alternatives</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 04:24:31 +0000</p> <p>My own son is allergic to peanuts, so I can sympathize with all of the people out there dealing with the peaunt butter recall, wondering what they are going to put in their children’s lunches or use in their snacks. I found this <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4725371_peanut-butter-alternatives.html" target="_blank">article</a> that has some pretty good ideas for peanut butter alternatives. Personally, I like Sunbutter the best.</p> <p><a class="aligncenter" href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4725371_peanut-butter-alternatives.html" target="_blank">How to Find Peanut Butter Alternatives</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>New Year Reflections</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 02:32:13 +0000</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="center"> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Every year around New Year’s Eve, my husband and I try to take time out of the chaos that is our daily life and make goals for the coming year. We also like to reflect on the year that is passing and on life in general. I was thinking about this the other day when a commercial for St. Jude’s came on the TV. The one reminds us to be thankful for our healthy children and remember those who are not. It makes me cry almost every time. A reminder that it could be my sweet boy so sick and missing his beautiful, curly hair.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Even though we have to live with this syndrome every day, I have to be thankful. Thankful that we are not at St. Jude’s, but, if he did develop Leukemia or Aplastic Anemia, we live in a country where medical care is readily available. I am thankful for the doctors who, even though we’ve been to some who are not the most sensitive (complete jerks), are keeping a close watch on my little boy. I am thankful that we have pharmacies with the medications that we need right down the road because I have been to areas in the world where parents cannot get the medicines that their children need.</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I wish every day that my children did not have to go through life with these syndromes, but I am thankful for my children and everything that they have taught me about strength, faith, and love. I am learning to stop asking “Why?” and rely on my faith that everything is going to turn out fine. I have realized that I am not in control (which is really hard for a control freak like me) and that I must “let go and let God.”</p> <p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In this coming year, I am going to try my hardest to be happy, have faith that all will be well, and live each day to the fullest. This is what I want my children to learn for me. Every day is a gift and every moment that I have with my children is a blessing. Some days are harder than others, and I’ve had plenty of breakdowns, but I am going to try my hardest to make every day a fantastic day. I wish each of you a Happy New Year. May it be filled with love, happiness, and sense of peace. God bless.</p> </article> <article> <h1>99 Balloons: An Inspiring Letter from a Father to His Son</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 04:27:48 +0000</p> <p>This is such an emotionally moving video done by a man to his son, Elliot, who was born with Trisomy 18. Eliot only lived 99 days, but his life touched so many.</p> <p>Most parents who find out that their child has Trisomy 18 before birth choose to abort their baby. I applaud Eliot’s parents for choosing life. Their choice allowed them the precious gift of their son. As his father says in the video:</p> <p>“An underdeveloped lung, a heart with hole in it and DNA that placed faulty information into each and every cell in your body could not stop God from revealing himself through a child who never uttered a word. Not a pulpit not a slick presentation not a best selling book, but a six pound boy with Trisomy 18. God found great pleasure to take a lowly thing in the eyes of the world and show truth.”</p> <p>Please watch this tribute to their son.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2009/01/20/99-balloons-an-inspiring-letter-from-a-father-to-his-son/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Alaskan Governor, Sarah Palin, Welcoms New Son With Down Syndrome</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 01:58:09 +0000</p> <p>Alaska’s governor, Sarah Palin, recently gave birth to her fifth child. He is a beautiful baby boy named Trig Paxon Van Palin.<strong></strong><strong><strong> </strong></strong></p> <p>He was born with Down Syndrome.</p> <p>A statement released by her and her husband, Todd says,</p> <p>“Trig is beautiful and already adored by us. We knew through early testing he would face special challenges, and we feel privileged that God would entrust us with this gift and allow us unspeakable joy as he entered our lives. We have faith that every baby is created for good purpose and has potential to make this world a better place. We are truly blessed.”</p> <p>I am so happy that, though they knew before birth that Trig was going to have Down Syndrome, she continued with her pregnancy and is taking so much joy in the life of her baby. 90% of American mothers who find out that the baby that they are carrying has Down Syndrome choose to have an abortion. They believe that abortion is the best option when in truth they are missing out on what could be one of life’s greatest blessings.</p> <p>To read more about Trig’s birth please read this <a href="http://www.celebrity-babies.com/2008/04/alaskan-governo.html" target="_blank">article.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Professor Lectures on the Causes of Autism</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 01:37:36 +0000</p> <p>Dr. Betty Williams, co-author of the book <span><span><span><em>Very Young Children with Special Needs</em>, presented the results of some of her research in a lecture. To find out more, please read this <a href="http://media.www.whitworthian.com/media/storage/paper1220/news/2008/04/22/News/Professor.Lectures.On.Causes.Of.Autism-3334965.shtml" target="_blank">article</a>.<br /> </span></span></span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Cord Blood Stem Cell Transpland Saves Young Boy</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 03:56:58 +0000</p> <p>Please take a moment to watch this video about a young boy named Titus who has aplastic anemia. Titus was born with his condition and this cord blood stem cell transplant was his best hope. It is a very informative video that explains how the transplant works.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2008/01/31/cord-blood-stem-cell-transpland-saves-young-boy/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Not Alone</h1> <p>Honey — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 21:03:31 +0000</p> <p>“And the two will be one. So they are no longer two but one.” Mark 10:8</p> <p>It is every parent’s worst nightmare: Learning that there is something wrong with your child. I remember that feeling all to well when a doctor told me that my son Luke probably had Cystic Fibrosis. I felt as though the room was shrinking, my brain went numb, and all I wanted to do was hold my <span class="link">baby</span> and cry. It turns out that my son did not have Cystic Fibrosis, but a rare genetic syndrome called Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome. It was a very long and difficult road to diagnosis and there were many times that I almost forgot about the one person who understood how I felt the most. My husband.</p> <p><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/532847/not_alone.html" target="_blank">Read More� </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Genetic Link to Spina Bifida Discovered</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:19:53 +0000</p> <p>Scientists have discovered a genetic link for Spina Bifida. Please read more about it in this <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/12/071218192016.htm" target="_blank">article.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Cerebral Palsy, Motherhood, and a Wonderful Life</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 03:30:30 +0000</p> <p>Just because you have a physical disability does not mean that you can not live a wonderful life! I would like you to meet a wonderful <span class="link">woman</span> who has overcome her challenges with parenthood, <span class="link">love</span> and life in general. Please meet Christine Regber-Martens, an amazing mother, <span class="link">wife</span> and friend to all who have met her.</p> <p><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/343126/cerebral_palsy_motherhood_and_a_wonderful.html" target="_blank">Read More </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Disabilities Do Not Slow Him Down</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 03:28:28 +0000</p> <p>Luke Anthony does not let Cystic Fibrosis nor his blindness stop him from reaching his dreams. Read about this exceptional young man in this <a href="http://www.newswales.co.uk/?section=Sport&F=1&id=12856" target="_blank">article.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Shwachman-Diamond on Mystery Diagnosis</h1> <p>Honey — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:26:05 +0000</p> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/12/16/shwachman-diamond-on-mystery-diagnosis/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/12/16/shwachman-diamond-on-mystery-diagnosis/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/12/16/shwachman-diamond-on-mystery-diagnosis/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> ]]> </article> <article> <h1>Music and Special Needs</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 02:13:30 +0000</p> <p>Please take a moment to read this very special article about a woman who teaches music to people with special needs.</p> <p>At what turned out to be Jessica’s last lesson, I asked her what rain sounded like. She actually gave this some thought before gently playing a tinkling sound on the higher notes that steadily became more insistent. I again harmonized with chords whenever I could on the electric keyboard. “How about the wind?” I asked. Jessica responded by playing a glissando up and down the keys with varying intensity. “Thunder?” That was easy. She immediately gave a few staccato bursts from the bass keys. “OK! Lets <span class="link">play</span> the <span class="link">music</span> for a short Spring thunder storm.” We dove in. It was wonderful. Not only was it totally free-form, it was VERY musical! All too soon, the lesson was over and Jessica’s father, who usually waited across the street at the local <span class="link">coffee</span> shop but today waited across the hall in our living room, popped his head into the studio and said that it was time to go. <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/291519/teaching_music_to_those_with_special.html?page=5" target="_blank">Read More</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>The Face of Autism – Quinn</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 19:16:38 +0000</p> <p>Meet Quinn, a young boy with Autism. This is an great video put together by Quinn’s mom.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/12/11/the-face-of-autism-quinn/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Special Needs Children and the Power of Play</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 02:40:36 +0000</p> <p>See how the power of play is helping special needs children like Owen reach new goals and become more interactive with his family.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/12/10/special-needs-children-and-the-power-of-play/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Down Syndrome Actors</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 04:26:22 +0000</p> <p>Just more proof that anyone can do anything with determination. These two articles show that if a child with Down Syndrome wants to be an actor, they can reach that dream. Just ask the young man who made an appearance on ER tonight.</p> <p><a href="http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art34198.asp" target="_blank">Article 1� </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.down-syndrome.org/information/development/overview/?page=1" target="_blank">Article 2� </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>A Preemie Story</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 04:06:58 +0000</p> <p>My first and only <span class="link">child</span> was born at 28 weeks gestation. It was a very scary time for me because I did not know what to expect and wanted my <span class="link">daughter</span> to be ok. I am trying to put together information so <span class="link">parents</span> can have an idea of what to expect if they are in the same or similar situation that I was in. Most of this information is based on a <span class="link">baby</span> born between 26 and 29 weeks of gestation. <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/449598/premature_birth_and_my_experiences.html" target="_blank">Read More</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>My Brother’s Courage: Living With Hemophilia</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:02:07 +0000</p> <p>The hospital was our second home. It was another day, another long day of a visit to the emergency room for my younger brother’s <span class="link">treatment</span> of Factor VIII, the clotting factor missing from his blood that disabled the bleeding from stopping. It was just another day. The sun was shining, his classmates were playing at recess when he got a nosebleed. All <span class="link">kids</span> get nosebleeds, there’s no drama about it. But for him to get one, the playground got to take part in the most exciting event of the day; the ambulance, the paramedics working frantically to stop the blood, but with my brother, relaxed and enjoying his newfound popularity. <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/34953/my_brothers_courage_living_with_hemophilia.html" target="_blank">Read More</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>John Mellencamp Is A New Spokesman For Spina Bifida</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 03:25:25 +0000</p> <p>John Mellencamp, who has Spina Bifida, has become the new spokesman for the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Canada. Read the entire<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2007/11/30/mellencamp-spina-bifida.html" target="_blank"> article</a> to find out how Spina Bifida has affected his life and what he is doing to help those who have the same condition.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Flawed Stem Cells and Fragile X</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 04:15:13 +0000</p> <p>The study of flawed stem cells may hold answers to a potential treatment for Fragile X. Read more about it in this interesting and informative <a href="http://www.sciencenews.org/articles/20071117/fob7.asp" target="_blank">article</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Diamond Blackfan Anemia – From the Perspective of a Thirteen Year Old Girl</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 03:56:25 +0000</p> <p>This is a <a href="http://www.checkbiotech.org/orphan_News_people.aspx?infoId=1845" target="_blank">letter</a> written by a thirteen year old girl with Diamond Blackfan Anemia that shares her struggles, hopes, and dreams. Matter of fact, she believes that the biggest thing that she and others in her situation needs are blood donors. Please read her <a href="http://www.checkbiotech.org/orphan_News_people.aspx?infoId=1845" target="_blank">letter</a> and think about giving the gift of life to someone in need this Christmas season.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Acute Lymphoblast Leukemia</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 03:23:38 +0000</p> <p>This is a really good video that shows the faces of children suffering from Acute Lymphoblast Leukemia. It also reminds us that cancer cannot take away the important things in life such as love and faith.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/12/03/acute-lymphoblast-leukemia/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>A Good Video on Asthma</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 03:23:36 +0000</p> <p>This is a pretty informative video on Asthma by Dr. Michael Marcus. It is worth watching if you suspect that your child is suffering from Asthma.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/12/02/a-good-video-on-asthma/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Meditation and ADHD</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 03:17:22 +0000</p> <p>This interesting <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2007/11/30/2106111.htm?site=science&topic=latest" target="_blank">article </a>discusses how meditation helps children with ADHD. This Australian study took several children with ADHD and taught them Sahaja yoga meditation. The children who used this form of meditation showed improvement in anxiety and self esteem. For more info, please read the entire <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2007/11/30/2106111.htm?site=science&topic=latest" target="_blank">article</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Organ Donation Saves a Girl With Gastroschisis</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 05:28:59 +0000</p> <p><a href="http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=3940&u_sid=10190328" target="_blank">Read about Daisy</a>, a young girl with Gastroschisis, who, thanks to an organ donor, is leading a full, happy life. Organ donation can save a person’s life. Please take more time to learn about organ donation at <a href="http://www.organdonor.gov/" target="_blank">www.organdonor.gov.</a></p> <p>Also, take a moment to learn about becoming a part of the National Marrow Donor Program at <a href="http://www.marrow.org/" target="_blank">www.marrow.org</a>. Your blood and bone marrow could save the life of a child suffering from Leukemia or any number of bone marrow dysfunction syndromes.</p> </article> <article> <h1>A Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome Blog</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:10:57 +0000</p> <p>I found this wonderful family’s <a href="http://www.bigheartstudio.com/heartlinks/baden_klein.htm" target="_blank">blog </a>on their struggles as their son battled Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome. It especially hit home for me because they thought that my own son had Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome when he was an infant, but it turned out to be Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome. Please take a moment to look at this <a href="http://www.bigheartstudio.com/heartlinks/baden_klein.htm" target="_blank">blog</a> and pray for all who are dealing with this disease.</p> </article> <article> <h1>A Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome Story</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 03:26:38 +0000</p> <p>This is a very good video that shows a family going through their son’s treatments for Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome. Thankfully, today PJ is a healthy, happy child. Please take a moment to view his story.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/11/28/a-wiskott-aldrich-syndrome-story/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Teams Raise $12,000 For Fragile X</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 03:10:56 +0000</p> <p>Six football teams in Illinois raised over $12,000 for the <a href="http://www.fraxa.org/" target="_blank">Fragile X Research Foundation</a> in honor of one team’s coach who has a son with this syndrome.� For more on this heartwarming story, please read the whole <a href="http://www.pantagraph.com/articles/2007/11/22/news/doc4746531a9b0a4222967992.txt" target="_blank">article</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Autism and Mercury Poisoning</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 17:26:29 +0000</p> <p>A father who has a son with Autism discusses the possible link between Autism and Mercury Poisoning. It is very interesting and informative.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/11/28/autism-and-mercury-poisoning/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Young Girl With Cri Du Chat Enjoys a Day at the Pool</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 17:24:35 +0000</p> <p>In this cute video, a young girl with Cri Du Chat enjoys a fun day at the pool.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/11/27/young-girl-with-cri-du-chat-enjoys-a-day-at-the-pool/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Child Shaves His Head For Cancer</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 15:29:21 +0000</p> <p>A young New Zealand boy, who had battled cancer himself, will be shaving his head for other children suffering from the disease in a “funrazor” event.� Read this <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/sundaystartimes/auckland/4284459a6497.html" target="_blank">article</a> for more information on his remarkable story. To find out more about the Funrazor please visit their website at <a href="http://www.funrazor.org.nz/" target="_blank">www.funrazor.org.nz</a> .</p> </article> <article> <h1>An Athlete Is Inducted Into Hall of Fame</h1> <p>Honey — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 15:19:44 +0000</p> <p>Mike Bailey, a young man with Down Syndrome, has been inducted into the San Jose Sports Hall of Fame. He is an avid athlete competing in such sports as power lifting, basket ball, and six others. Please take a moment to read this <a href="http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=local&id=5772830" target="_blank">article</a> about this exceptional young man and understand why it is so important to support the <a href="http://www.specialolympics.org/Special+Olympics+Public+Website/default.htm" target="_blank">Special Olympics</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Shop for Your Cause</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 17:17:56 +0000</p> <p>Many retailers are more than willing to give a donation to your cause. You just need to know where to look. Websites like<a href="http://www.igive.com/" target="_blank"> igive.com </a>and<a href="http://www.goodsearch.com/default.aspx" target="_blank"> goodsearch.com</a> (which is powered by Yahoo) are free to sign up. From their website, you click on links for stores like Barnes & Noble, Ebay, Gap, Drugstore.com, Fandango.com (there are many more), then a percentage of your purchase price will go to the charity of your choice. Mine is Shwachman-Diamond America in honor of my son with Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome.</p> <p>For more information on Goodsearch, please see this <a href="http://www.goodsearch.com/Press.aspx" target="_blank">article</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Swimming May Cause Asthma</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 15:19:44 +0000</p> <p>A new report shows that swimming may actually cause Athletic-induced Asthma (An illness that yours truly suffers from) This <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/news/Sport/Swimming-may-cause-asthma-not-cure-it/2007/11/23/1195753260652.html" target="_blank">article</a> is a must read for all who have loved ones who swim on a regular basis. It tells the causes and what to look for if you suspect that you or someone you know suffers from this condition.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Apraxia</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 04:08:40 +0000</p> <p>My older son has been in speech therapy for quite a while now. The word Apraxia has been mentioned as a possibility for his speech delay, and, of course, I had to get on the internet to research it. I found a few interesting articles that I thought might be beneficial to those going down the same road or for those looking for answers.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/10/071029133114.htm" target="_blank">Cases of Apraxia of Speech are on the rise.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/87265.php" target="_blank">Baby Babble or a Sign of Speech Problems.� </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>A Visual Aid Device Helps Vision Impaired Drive</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 04:06:10 +0000</p> <p>Scientists have developed a computer simulator that helps people with vision impairments to drive. This device is the first of its kind. For more information, please read the full <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/10/071016131510.htm" target="_blank">article</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>David MacDonald speaks out for the unborn</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 19:52:41 +0000</p> <p>It is unfortunate and sad that so many women choose to abort a child because that child has a disability that he or she had no control over. Every human life is sacred. David MacDonald has been speaking out on behalf of the disabled unborn.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/10/29/david-macdonald-speaks-out-for-the-unborn/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>In Honor of Down Syndrome Awareness</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 19:52:41 +0000</p> <p>Here are some videos on Down Syndrome in honor of Down Syndrome awareness.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/10/27/in-honor-of-down-syndrome-awareness/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/10/27/in-honor-of-down-syndrome-awareness/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Arthur Miller’s son has Down Syndrome</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 02:27:22 +0000</p> <p>While reading up on some background information on Arthur Miller, I was shocked to see that he has a son with Down Syndrome. Like many babies born in the 1960′s with disabilities, Daniel Miller was placed in an institution. In this well written <a href="http://www.vanityfair.com/fame/features/2007/09/miller200709">article,</a> we can read about Danny Miller and see what a remarkable young man he turned out to be in spite of his placement in one of those ill-equipped “homes.”</p> </article> <article> <h1>45, With Cystic Fibrosis, And Still Going Strong</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 18:38:05 +0000</p> <p>This is a pretty amazing video about a 45 year old man with Cystic Fibrosis. He is happily married with two children. This is particularly awesome considering that not too long ago people with CF usually did not live past the age of 10.� I am so hopeful that sometime in the near future children with CF will not wonder how long they live, but thing about how much they will have to save to retire comfortably.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/10/03/45-with-cystic-fibrosis-and-still-going-strong/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month!</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:38:02 +0000</p> <p>October is the month to celebrate Down Syndrome (though those of you who have children with Down Syndrome know that every month is a celebration). If anyone would like to participate in a Buddy Walk to help raise awareness for Down Syndrome, please check out this <a href="http://www.buddywalk.org/" target="_blank">link</a> to find the Buddy Walk in your area.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Baby Sign Language</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 02:42:46 +0000</p> <p>I am a firm believer in the use of baby sign language. My older child is language delayed, so we started teaching him sign language in order to reduce some of the frustrations that both of us were feeling due to his lack of communication skills (pointing and screaming just wasn’t working for us). We plan to teach our younger son, who has Down Syndrome, sign language sometime in the next few months. We used the My Baby Can Talk DVDs and Baby Einstein to learn the basics and used the signs around our son. It only took a few weeks for us to see results.</p> <p>Below is a good video of a baby using sign language. A baby will not do the signs perfect (When our son says “Thank You” it looks like “Eat” but we know what he is saying) but this will give you an idea as to what to expect.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/09/24/baby-sign-language/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Space Camp for Visually Impaired Students</h1> <p>Honey — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 17:52:32 +0000</p> <p>The US Space and Rocket center in Huntsville Alabama has opened a<a href="http://www.tsbvi.edu/space/" target="_blank"> Space Camp for Interested Visually Impaired Students</a>.� Students who are partially or totally blind are able to attend and do many of the regular activities with a few modifications, such as Braille being added to the space shuttle simulators.� For more information on this camp, please click the previous link, or see this <a href="http://cosmiclog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/09/21/373414.aspx" target="_blank">article</a> written about this years camp which also has links if you would like to find out more information on this program.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Oprah on Autism</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 01:43:03 +0000</p> <p>Earlier this week, Oprah had actresses Jenny McCarthy and Holly Robinson Peete on her show to discuss the impact of their son’s diagnosis of autism in their lives. This is not the first time Oprah has had a show on autism, but it is the first where celebrities have come on and thrown off the perception of a perfect life to let us know that what happened to them could happen to anyone. I admire both women for being so honest and so determined to give their sons the best life that they could possibly give. Part of that determination was accepting what their child had, but refusing to let their sons slip away into that strange world where they would become almost unreachable. To hear more about this remarkable interview, please check out these articles.</p> <p><a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/huffpost/20070919/cm_huffpost/064944">Article 1� </a></p> <p><a href="http://www2.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/200709/tows_past_20070918.jhtml?promocode=HP21" target="_blank">Article 2� </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/385209/jenny_mccarthy_tells_oprah_that_autism.html" target="_blank">Article 3� </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Special Education Teachers Can Be Hard To Find</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 18:08:45 +0000</p> <p>The United States simply does not have enough special education teachers. Many do not want to go into the rewarding field of special education due to the time (paper work) and patience it takes to be a special education teacher. This <a href="http://news.mywebpal.com/news_tool_v2.cfm?pnpID=351&NewsID=837198&CategoryID=11091&show=localnews&om=1" target="_blank">article</a> sheds some light on what is going on in this country and what several school districts are trying to about it.� The bottom line to me is that people going into education should be encouraged to give special education a chance. Let education college students visit more special ed classrooms and don’t limit curriculum to one special education class (Many universities do this). If you think that working with typically developing children is rewarding, special education can be 10 times better.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Babytalk features Down Syndrome</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:40:08 +0000</p> <p>I would like to say a special Thank You to the people at <a href="http://www.parenting.com/parenting/babytalk/channel" target="_blank">Babytalk magazine</a> for featuring a child with Down Syndrome on its cover and a wonderful story from a mom’s point of view. It is rare to see a mainstream parenting magazine featuring a child that is considered “different” in a positive light especially with The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists encouraging women to have their pregnancies screened for D0wn Syndrome. Sadly over 90% of expectant moms of a child with Down Syndrome choose to have an abortion rather that take the responsibility of an extraordinary, beautiful human life. Hopefully more magazines will feature special needs children to show parents that having a special needs child is not the end of the world, it is just the beginning of a wonderful journey.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Inspiring Cri Du Chat Story</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 18:45:05 +0000</p> <p>After hearing about a father/son team that competes in triathlons (the son has Cerebral Palsy) a father of a five year old with Cri Du Chat started competing with his own son. In this <a target="_blank" href="http:/http://www.courierpress.com/news/2007/aug/19/motivation-shows//">article</a> he describes how he has been inspired by his son by watching how hard he works in his many different therapies.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Video on Peanut Exposure</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 18:06:33 +0000</p> <p>This is a teen-made video on how easily a child can be exposed to peanuts.� It is very good, especially for a teen-made production.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/08/28/video-on-peanut-exposure/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Have a Child With Food Allergies?</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 18:01:56 +0000</p> <p>This <a target="_blank" href="http://http://www.themonitor.com/articles/milk_4642___article.html/food_students.html">article</a> reminds us of how wide spread food allergies have become. If you have a child with food allergies, it is very important that you inform the school that your child attends so that they can be sure not to accidently expose your child to that particular food.</p> <p>Parents who do not have a child with food allergies must learn to accept that the quick and easy peanutbutter sandwhich that you fix every day just might prove fatal to another child. It might not be as easy for you, but think about how you would feel if it was your child who had the allergy and could die from the exposure.</p> </article> <article> <h1>How to Use an Epi-Pen</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:18:09 +0000</p> <p>This is a good vidoe on how to use an Epi-Pen. It is very important that everyone knows how to use this life saving device with the rise of allergies in this country.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/08/22/how-to-use-an-epi-pen/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>New Hope for Those With Down Syndrome</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:01:55 +0000</p> <p>Doctors in Colorado have been experimenting with Alzheimer Disease drugs and they believe that these medications may help reverse the learning deficits that are associated with Down Syndrome. This <a href="http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=75828">article </a>is very informative and shows a lot of promise for the 350,000 plus people with Down Syndrome in this country. There is also a video on the left hand side of this <a href="http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=75828">article</a> well worth watching.</p> <p>While this <a href="http://http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=75828">article</a> does show promise, it also reminds us that Down Syndrome� receives the least amount of funding of all the diseases and disorders that the government gives funding for research. If you have a child with Down Syndrome, it is very important to have a voice and use it to help those you love. Write letters to your representatives, tell people about your child.� There are medications that may help people with Down Syndrome, but unless more money is given to research, we may never see these drugs used in our life time.</p> </article> <article> <h1>What Do You See?</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 19:05:38 +0000</p> <p>I think that if a person has “normal” vision that it is very difficult for them to imagine what it is like to be visually impaired. This is an interesting video that shows how some people with visual impairments see. It certainly gave me a new perspective on how life would be different if I started to lose my eyesight.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/08/20/what-do-you-see/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Video on a Ten Year Old with Type 1 Diabetes</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 18:40:25 +0000</p> <p>This is an informative video about Calvin, a 10 year old boy with Type 1 Diabetes and the struggles that he and his family faces every day.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/08/15/video-on-a-ten-year-old-with-type-1-diabetes/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>New Down Syndrome Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 13:49:50 +0000</p> <p>This is a wonderful<a href="http://thechronicleherald.ca/Opinion/852367.html" target="_blank"> article</a> about a mother who has two daughters with Down Syndrome and how she encourages parents who have babies diagnosed with Down Syndrome before birth not to abort their children.</p> <p>An <a href="http://www.kansascity.com/115/story/219001.html" target="_blank">article</a> about the 35th annual National Down Syndrome Congress convention held in Kansas City shows how much times have changed in just the past 25 years.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Hemophilia VS. Insurance</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:58:23 +0000</p> <p>As many of you probably know, dealing with health insurance companies is almost worse than dealing with your child’s condition. This is a video about a family who has a child with Hemophilia and all of the struggles that they are going through with insurance. For those of you fighting with evil insurance companies, know that you are not alone.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/08/06/hemophilia-vs-insurance/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>New Information on Preemies and a Video.</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 02:52:19 +0000</p> <p>An interesting <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2007Jul09/0,4670,HealthBeatPreemieBlindness,00.html">article </a>on how fish oil might help protect the eyesight of premature infants. This is a very informative <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2007Jul09/0,4670,HealthBeatPreemieBlindness,00.html">article</a> and it brings hope to the parents of preemies everywhere.</p> <p>This is a very heartwarming video about a family that had two premature children one year apart from each other. For those of you with preemeis, know that you are not alone and there is so much hope now for those born too soon.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/08/01/new-information-on-preemies-and-a-video/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Famous People With Dyscalculia</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 17:40:00 +0000</p> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/07/31/famous-people-with-dyscalculia/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> ]]> </article> <article> <h1>One Mom On Raising Her Deaf Child</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 17:39:58 +0000</p> <p>In this video, one mom candidly shares what it is like to raise a deaf child.</p> <p>� <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/07/30/one-mom-on-raising-her-deaf-child/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p></p> </article> <article> <h1>New Diabetes Info</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 01:19:58 +0000</p> <p>This new <a target="_blank" href="http://www.forbes.com/forbeslife/health/feeds/hscout/2007/07/27/hscout606703.html">article</a>� explains how young people with Type 1 Diabetes greatly benefit from exercise.</p> </article> <article> <h1>New Fragile X Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 02:47:55 +0000</p> <p>An <a target="_blank" href="http://www.abcnews.go.com/Health/story?id=3327269&page=1">article</a> on how one family deals with their son’s Fragile X and the strength that he brought to them.</p> <p>A <a target="_blank" href="http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2007/06/26/fragile_x_study_raises_hopes_for_autism/">Fragile X study </a>brings hope for those with Autism.</p> <p>Another <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/sandysprings/stories/2007/07/02/0703fragilex.html">story</a> of a family coping with their son’s diagnosis of Fragile X Syndrome.</p> </article> <article> <h1>New Down Syndrome Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 18:42:30 +0000</p> <p>A sweet <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/femail/article.html?in_article_id=469650&in_page_id=1879">article</a> about twins, one of whom has Down Syndrome, and the challanges they faced growing up.</p> <p>A family with five children find room in their hearts to adopt a little girl with Down Syndrome. Please read their wonderful <a target="_blank" href="http://www.chronicleonline.com/articles/2007/07/19/news/news20.txt">story</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Kansas Senator supports parents of disabled children</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 02:08:46 +0000</p> <p>A wonderful <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansas.com/205/story/122372.html">article</a> on how Kansas Senator Sam Brownback says not to pressure parents who are going to have a special needs child to have an abortion.</p> </article> <article> <h1>New information on Diabetes</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 02:00:10 +0000</p> <p>An <a target="_blank" href="http://uk.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUKN1427344320070715">article</a> telling how scientists have found a gene that may increase a child’s risk of developing Type 1 Diabetes. They hope that, armed with this new information, they might be able to prevent this disease.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Video</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 01:00:44 +0000</p> <p>This is an informative video from the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/07/11/canadian-cystic-fibrosis-foundation-video/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Video Games Can Help Children with ADHD</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 21:38:34 +0000</p> <p>Here is an interesting video on how video games may help children with ADHD.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/07/10/video-games-can-help-children-with-adhd/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Learning Disabilities and Therapy</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 18:31:07 +0000</p> <p>This is a wonderful video that shows how important intervention and therapy� are for children with special needs.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/07/09/learning-disabilities-and-therapy/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Cerebral Palsy Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 01:31:06 +0000</p> <p>An <a target="_blank" href="http://uk.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUKCOL56010920070705">article</a>on how botox may help children with Cerebral Palsy.</p> <p>The inspirational <a target="_blank" href="http://news.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?a=299850&z=2">story</a> of Stephanie Krause.</p> </article> <article> <h1>IEP Video</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 02:49:38 +0000</p> <p>This is an awsome video, made by a parent of a child with Autism. She took it to her son’s IEP meeting so that the people there could get to know her son and know what he needed in order to learn.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/07/03/iep-video/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Children with Diabetes Share Their Story</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 03:26:26 +0000</p> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/07/02/children-with-diabetes-share-their-story/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> ]]> </article> <article> <h1>New information on Diabetes</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 02:57:22 +0000</p> <p>A new <a target="_blank" href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=75399">article</a> on how cord blood may preserve insulin levels in children with Type 1 Diabetes.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://diabetes.about.com/od/whatsonthehorizon/qt/cinnamon.htm">Information </a>on how cinnamon may help those with Type 2 Diabetes.</p> </article> <article> <h1>New Down Syndrome Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 15:41:15 +0000</p> <p>An <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kuwaittimes.net/read_news.php?newsid=MTU2Mjc5MDc3MQ==">article</a> from Kuwait Times on what it is like to live with Down Syndrome in that country.</p> <p>A <a target="_blank" href="http://observer.guardian.co.uk/world/story/0,,2104855,00.html">review</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://observer.guardian.co.uk/world/story/0,,2104855,00.html">description</a> of the book <em>The Memory Keeper’s Daughter</em>, which is� a beautifully written novel on about man who gives up his daughter born with Down Syndrome and the effect his deception had on his family.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Chris Benoit and the Fragile X Connection.</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:06:00 +0000</p> <p>Last week the wrestling world was shocked and saddened to hear of the murder/suicide of Chris Benoit and his family. It seems as though his son might have had Fragile X Syndrome. Here are a few articles that discuss the situation.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,130882.shtml">Article 1</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_21288961.shtml">Article 2</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.news1130.com/news/topstory/article.jsp?content=20070626_212836_4500">Article 3</a></p> <p>Raising a child with a disability is a very difficult task. I believe that this incident shows us that we need the support of family and friends. Also, that it is very important that� we are in contact with other parents who have children with� our child’s disability/syndrome to know that you are not alone and that someone out there understands exactly what you are going through.</p> </article> <article> <h1>The Latest Asthma Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 23:41:14 +0000</p> <p>An <a target="_blank" href="http://uk.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUKCOL95706820070629">article</a> on how the Papworth method might be helpful to those who suffer from Asthma.</p> <p>An interesting <a target="_blank" href="http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=31018">article</a> on some Asthma home remedies.</p> </article> <article> <h1>New Leukemia Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 19:07:17 +0000</p> <p>Cephalon Inc. is seeking� approval for the experimental cancer treatment Treanda. For more information, please see the full article <a target="_blank" href="http://www.philly.com/philly/business/breaking/8226547.html">here</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=30752">Here</a> is an interesting <a href="http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=30752">article</a> on the viability of cord blood in treating a number of diseases including Leukemia.</p> </article> <article> <h1>How to be Gluten Free</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 02:40:11 +0000</p> <p>Removing a food from your diet because you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an allergy or intolerance be very difficult. People with Celiac Disease are unable to process a protein called gluten. Gluten is found in many common products that contain barley, rye, and wheat. Here are some great websites that offer Gluten-Free recipes.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.csaceliacs.org/recipes.php">Celiac Spruce Association</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.celiac.com/st_main.html?p_catid=20">Celiac.com</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.recipezaar.com/recipes/gluten-free">Recipezaar</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://gfkitchen.server101.com/">The Gluten Free Kitchen</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Hemophilia</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 02:29:32 +0000</p> <p>Here are some of the latests articles on Hemophilia.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.emaxhealth.com/39/13253.html">Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Introduces The First Training Kit To Help People With Hemophilia Learn Self-Infusion Techniques.</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.yankton.net/stories/062207/new_179259897.shtml">The Story of Michael, an 11 year old with Hemophilia.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Spina Bifida</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 01:28:52 +0000</p> <p>This is a very informational video on Spina Bifida and a possible Irish genetic predisposition for the disorder.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/06/19/spina-bifida/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>The Inspiring Story of Zach Woolley</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 01:21:06 +0000</p> <p>This is the truly amazing and inspiring story of Zach Woolley, a young man with Cerebral Palsy who helped a girl half way around the world.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/06/19/the-inspiring-story-of-zach-woolley/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Down Syndrome Couple Weds</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 03:44:09 +0000</p> <p>This is an amazing <a target="_blank" href="http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=72063">article</a> about two very special people with Down Syndrome who decided to spend their lives together.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Asthma and Antibiotics</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 03:39:44 +0000</p> <p>There may be a link between childhoood asthma and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics according to this ABC news <a target="_blank" href="http://www.abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory?id=3280125">article</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Autism/TV link?</h1> <p>Honey — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 03:31:52 +0000</p> <p>With the number of children diagnosed with Autism on the rise, scientists are researching many different theories as to what is causing this trend. I came across this interesting <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,222481,00.html">article</a> that suggests a possible link between Autism and TV done at Cornell University, It certainly made me think twice about letting my own son watch TV this week.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Fragile X</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 02:59:06 +0000</p> <p>This is an interesting <a target="_blank" href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=73415">article</a>on the progress of understanding the Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein.</p> <p>From Science Daily: an <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070523124401.htm">article</a>� on Fragile X Syndrome that shows a stimulating environment restores neuron function in mice that have been genetically altered to have the same symptoms as people with Fragile X.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Gastroschisis</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 01:49:32 +0000</p> <p>Here are some interesting articles on Gastroschisis and the effects that this condition can have on children.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18412355&BRD=1698&PAG=461&dept_id=21848&rfi=6">High school junior Korrey Willis, who was born with Gastroschisis, beat all odds and has made some amazing accomplishments.</a></p> <p>“<a target="_blank" href="http://www.altoonamirror.com/News/articles.asp?articleID=12396">Miracle Girl” Sydney Herring has overcome many obstacles in her short life.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Cord Blood Stem Cell Transplants</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 20:34:29 +0000</p> <p>Here are some interesting� videos on cord blood stem cell transplants. Cord blood stem cells have the potential to save thousands of lives. Encourage any expectant mother that you know to either save or donate her child’s cord blood.� It can save lives.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/06/04/cord-blood-stem-cell-transplants/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/06/04/cord-blood-stem-cell-transplants/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>New ADHD Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 03:46:43 +0000</p> <p>As always, click on the links below to read the full articles.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=72031">Daytrana is effective in both boys and girls in the treatment of ADHD.</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=72033">Guanfacine XR improves childhood and adolescent ADHD symptoms.</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=72410">Up to 26% of children affected with ADHD might also stutter.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Asthma Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 02:57:11 +0000</p> <p>Apple Juice <a href="http://www.upi.com/Consumer_Health_Daily/Reports/2007/05/30/eat_to_live_apple_juice_against_asthma/1495/print_view/" target="_blank">may improve lung function</a>.</p> <p>This is a very informative article for <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,276854,00.html" target="_blank">parents who have children diagnosed with Asthma</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Childhood Cancer Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 02:48:40 +0000</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.cancerpage.com/news/article.asp?id=10897">It is possible that childhood Leukemia survivors might have an increased risk of being short when they reach adulthood. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.emaxhealth.com/51/11847.html">Extra Chromosomes in Childhood Leukemia cells show a pattern. </a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.wtoctv.com/Global/story.asp?S=6594441&nav=menu89_6ttp://">One little boy fights for his life aginst Retinoblastoma.</a></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.eontarionow.com/health/2007/05/13/nba-players-daughter-diagnosed-with-retinoblastoma/">Utah Jazz’s Derek Fisher’s daughter diagnosed with Retinoblastoma.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Best Buddies</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 25 May 2007 02:32:26 +0000</p> <p>This is a wonderful <a href="http://www.checkbiotech.org/orphan_News_people.aspx?infoId=368" target="_blank">article</a> about a young man with Cri Du Chat and his family. They have been involved in a program known as Best Buddies. Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization founded by Anthony Kennedy Shriver,� that’s main goal is to enhance the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing friendships and employment. For more information on Best Buddies, please visit their <a href="http://www.bestbuddies.org" target="_blank">website</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Diabetes Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 25 May 2007 02:19:21 +0000</p> <p><a href="http://diabetes.webmd.com/news/20070524/diabetes-complications-rising-in-kids" target="_blank">Diabetes complications are rising in children.</a><br /> <span class="storydetail"><br /> <a href="http://www.strausnews.com/articles/2007/05/24/township_journal/news/30.txt" target="_blank">Camp Nejeda in New Jersey is helping children with diabetes and their families.</a></span><a href="http://www.strausnews.com/articles/2007/05/24/township_journal/news/30.txt" target="_blank"> </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.mountvernonnews.com/Sports/052307/03.html" target="_blank">A young man from Mount Vernon overcomes many complications from Type I Diabetes.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Bigger Hospitals Better for Preemies?</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 25 May 2007 02:08:18 +0000</p> <p>Someone sent me this interesting <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070524/ap_on_he_me/preemie_survival;_ylt=Aq6dG8B1llVKAretYCVN11nMWM0F" target="_blank">article</a> on premature babies. It explains how bigger hospitals just might be better for those born a little too early.</p> <p>Also, here are a few more interesting articles on preemies:</p> <p><a href="http://www.montereyherald.com/health/ci_5956948" target="_blank">More preemies are surviving. Read how a preemie survived and then delivered a preemie herself.� </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.news8austin.com/content/headlines/?ArID=184588&SecID=2" target="_blank">Massage and music might help preemies go home sooner.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2007/05/18/preemies_could_be_more_at_risk_for_diabetes/" target="_blank">Preemies might be more at risk for diabetes.� </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Reflections on Dyslexia</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 21 May 2007 04:04:12 +0000</p> <p>This is a very interesting video about a young girl growing up with dyslexia.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/05/20/reflections-on-dyslexia/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Child of the Week</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 17 May 2007 05:00:39 +0000</p> <p style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8112740@N06/501685425/" title="photo sharing"></a></p> <p><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px"><br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8112740@N06/501685425/"><br /> </a></span><br /> This is Luke. Luke is now 23 months old and he has Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome. It was a very long road to diagnosis for us. Everything seemed to be just fine when he came into the world on June 2, 2005 weighing in at 7 pounds even. Life was just perfect with this little angel. Then, when he was 8 weeks old, he started getting strange rashes and, not long after that, he stopped gaining weight. Doctors were at a loss to explain this. At first they thought it was a feeding problem, so we went from nursing to bottle feeding. At four months he still was not gaining weight and he had developed reflux and frequent, greasy, foul-smelling stools. He became so ill we had to be put in the hospital for four days. While in the hospital the doctors discovered that his liver and pancreatic enzyme levels were off and they thought that he might have developed an allergy to cows milk and soy milk. As a result, Luke was put on the “BMW” of baby formulas and all of the testing began.<br /> The first thought the doctors had was that everything was just allergy related, but after a month on Neocate (a special formula for milk and soy allergies) there was not much improvement in Luke’s blood work, digestive issues, or skin problems. They decided to do a scope, colonoscopy, and PH probe to see what was going on inside the little guy. It was one of the worst moments in my life when I handed him over to be put to sleep for the procedures. The absolute worst moment came soon after when, after the procedures were over, the doctor took us into a little room, sat us down, and told us that he thought our child had Cystic Fibrosis. It took every ounce of will-power for me not to break down into a little puddle in that small, window-less room. We started with the usual round of CF tests. The sweat test came back negative, but because Luke was so young, the test could have given a false negative, so we went back for a gene test. It came back negative as well. The doctors did not have a clue what was wrong with him.<br /> When he was 10 months old, Luke developed petechaie all over his body. A trip to the doctor revealed that his platelet counts had drastically dropped and soon after that he became neutropenic. With the combination of the blood and digestive problems the doctors started thinking Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome. Many people told us how sorry they were that our son had a syndrome, but I was relieved. I finally was getting close to an answer to the great mystery, and now I could start treating my son and get him on the road to good health. A fecal fat test confirmed the lack of digestive enzymes and the gene test for Shwachman-Diamond came back positive. On a funny note, Luke apparently inherited the exact same mutation from both my husband and me. The doctors called us to ask us if there is any way we are related (we are NOT by the way.)<br /> We started Luke on artificial enzymes and replacement vitamins and we soon had a different boy on our hands. I never thought I would be so excited at the sight of a firm, poopy diaper! We rejoiced over every ounce gained, and started looking to the future with hope. It is not going to be an easy road. He has some developmental delays, his liver enzymes are still elevated, and he will have to have a yearly bone marrow biopsy. Despite all of that, life is wonderful and I feel that God has truly blessed us with this sweet little boy.</p> <p>If you would like to share your story with us, visit the <a href="http://specialfamily.net/contact-us/">Contact Us</a> portion of our website and fill out the form. You might see your child featured in our “Child of the Week” weekly posting.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Early Detection for Autism</h1> <p>Honey — Wed, 16 May 2007 04:26:20 +0000</p> <p>I was sent this interesting<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070514/ap_on_re_us/baby_psychiatry;_ylt=Aq1Hrflur4SZmOkYWh2KLe7MWM0F" target="_blank"> article</a> on early detection in Autism. With 1 in 150 children being diagnosed with Autism, parents really need to be aware of the early symptoms so that they can get their child into early intervention programs as soon as possible.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Vernon Smith, “Accept Us”</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:53:19 +0000</p> <p>A fascinating video on Vernon Smith, a Nobel Prize winner with Asperger’s Syndrome. It describes his social problems and why he has been so successful.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/05/14/vernon-smith-accept-us/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:41:47 +0000</p> <h2>Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome</h2> <p>Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome is a rare gentic sydnrome that affects the pancrease, bone marrow, and other organ systems in the body. Shwachman-Diamond is the second most common cause for pancreatic insufficency in children, with the most common being Cystic Fibrosis. Children with Shwachman-Diamond are frequently thought to have Cystic Fibrosis, thanks to the greasy stools present in most cases.</p> <p>A person with Shwachman-Diamond will usually have decreased cell counts with the most common being a decrease in the white blood cells called Neutorphils, which are needed to fight of infections. There is an increased risk of Leukemia and Aplastic Anemia (bone marrow failure) for those who have Shwachman-Diamond. Because of this, many doctors recommend that patients with Shwachman-Diamond have yearly bone marrow biopsys and frequent blood checks.</p> <p>For more information on Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome, please visit <a href="http://www.shwachmandiamondamerica.org/" target="_blank">Shwachman-Diamond America.</a></p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold">Articles:� Please click on the link to read the full article.</span></p> <p><a href="http://marrowfailure.cancer.gov/SD.html" target="_blank">Inherited Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes – Shwachman Diamond Syndrome� </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.shwachman-diamondsupport.org/news.htm" target="_blank">The fourth International Congress on Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome to be held at Harvard.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Specific Syndromes and Disorders Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:40:17 +0000</p> <p><a href="http://www.expressandstar.co.uk/2007/04/10/bethanys-a-little-miracle/" target="_blank">Bethany, a young girl with Angelman Syndrome, is a true miracle.</a><strong><a href="http://www.expressandstar.co.uk/2007/04/10/bethanys-a-little-miracle/" target="_blank"> </a></strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=43&url_article_id=25959&url_subchannel_id=&change_well_id=2" target="_blank">A young girl’s struggles with Digeroge Syndrome are making her family stronger.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/529138/" target="_blank">A new test may be able to screen for Fragile-X Syndrome.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.emaxhealth.com/39/10832.html" target="_blank"><span class="arttext">Andretti Green Racing and </span><span class="arttext">Bayer HealthCare team up to form a fundraising program for Hemophilia.</span></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Articles on Preemies</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:38:25 +0000</p> <p>Every year there are thousands of babies born too early. It can be a very stressful time for the parents as their son or daughter spends the first few months of their life in an NICU instead of the nursery that was planned so carefully for them. If you have a child that was born early, it is important to know that you are not alone. Parents take home happy babies from the NICU every day. Your child might have some challenges that other children might not have to face, but together you will get through this tough, scary time.</p> <p>In this section we will bring articles to you on the complications that many preemies face and what to expect during your child’s first few months of life.</p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold"> Articles</span> Please click on the link to read the full article.</p> <p><a href="http://www.cfnews13.com/FamilyAndHome/YourKids/2007/4/2/music_therapy_for_preemies.html" target="_blank">Music Thearpy and Preemies. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/ng.asp?n=76502-probiotics-gut-health-necrotising-enterocolitis" target="_blank">Probiotics could help Preemies GI health. </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>New Learning Disabilities Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:34:37 +0000</p> <p>Having a child with a learning disability can be challenging, but with a little patience and a lot of understanding academic goals can be set and met.</p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold">Articles</span></p> <p><a href="http://masseynews.massey.ac.nz/2007/Press_Releases/04-20-07a.html" target="_blank">Educators in New Zealand are rejoicing as the government finally recognizes Dyslexia as a learning disability.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.courant.com/news/local/columnists/hc-rgreen0417.artapr17,0,5535194.column?coll=hc-utility-local" target="_blank">Jake, a child with dyslexia, almost fell through the cracks in the education system after mistakenly being labeled “lazy.”</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.labnews.co.uk/laboratory_article.php/1834/2/study-is-breakthrough-for-dyscalculia-sufferers" target="_blank">Scientist may have found the area of the brain that causes Dyscalculia</a>.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Hearing Impaired Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:33:39 +0000</p> <h2>Hearing Impaired</h2> <p>There is no way of knowing exactly how many children have hearing loss, but it is thought to be in the range of 1 to 3 percent of the population. On top of that, up to 15 percent of children may be experiencing temporary hearing loss due to illness, injury, etc…</p> <p>The United States requires hearing screenings for all newborns, and those that fail must have a repeat screening to see if they actually have any hearing loss. Children who pass the newborn hearing screen should have hearing screenings throughout childhood to make sure that a problem has not occurred since infancy.</p> <p><strong>Articles� </strong>� Please click on the link to read the full article.<br /> <a href="http://media.www.wilkesbeacon.com/media/storage/paper533/news/2007/03/26/News/Wilkes.Announces.2007.Graduation.Speaker-2789809.shtml">Learn more about the Academy Award winning actress Marlee Matlin, who has hearing loss. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.thnt.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070326/NEWS/703260405/1001">Read about a special group who uses sign language to worship. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/entertainment/4646512.html"><br /> </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Food Allergies and GI Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:32:21 +0000</p> <h2>Food Allergies and GI</h2> <p>There is not a school in this country that does not have a child who has a food allergy. From strawberries to red food dye, peanuts to tree nuts, it seems as though everyone knows someone with a food allergy. A tiny amount of any food that an allergic child comes into contact with can be deadly. To make matters worse, teachers have reported an alarming rise in the number of children who have peanut allergies. Incidents have been reported all over the news about the rise in peanut allergies and the subsequent ban of peanuts in many schools.</p> <p>If your child or someone you know has been diagnosed with a food allergy, you probly have started the religious reading of food labels in the grocery store before you buy anything. Though it might seem daunting, you can live a normal life with food allergies. It is just a more careful one.</p> <p>Many time food allergies can be mistaken for other Gastroenterology (GI) problems. You might very well have a food intolerance instead of an allergy. A food allergy involves your immune system because the food in question is interpreted as being dangerous to your body. A food intolerance does not involve the immune system and it cannot lead to possible death. It can just make you feel sick for a while.</p> <p>Other common GI problems include Celiac Disease (a gluten intolerance) and Reflux.</p> <p><strong>Articles� � </strong>Please click on the link to read the full article.</p> <p><a href="http://www.wtov9.com/health/12045630/detail.html" target="_blank">New GERD testing guidelines released.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.sdcitybeat.com/article.php?id=5496" target="_blank">How one man discovered that he had Celiac Disease, and how he learned to control it. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/hidden-danger/2007/04/15/1176575674643.html" target="_blank">One family’s struggles to deal with their son’s milk, peanut, tree nut, and egg allergies. </a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Down Syndrome Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:30:44 +0000</p> <h2>Down Syndrome</h2> <p>Down Syndrome, also called Trisomey 21, is caused by a person having an extra 21st chromosome in every cell of their body. It is usually caused by an error in cell division of the sex cells of one of the parents. When the cell divides, for some reason one cell receives both copies of the 21st chromosome. There is a form of Down Syndrome called Mosaic Down Syndrome where not every cell carries the extra chromosome. This occurs due to an error in cell division in the embryo.</p> <p>It is important to know that it is no one’s fault. There was nothing that either parent could have done to prevent what happened. Many parents experience guild when they discover that their child has or is going to have Down Syndrome. Unfortunately almost 90% of mothers who find out that their child is going to have Down Syndrome abort the baby. Most people who have a child with Down Syndrome will agree that their child is the biggest blessing in their life. It is not always easy, but it is well worth it.</p> <p><strong>Articles </strong>Please click on the link to read the full article.</p> <p><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/03/30/AR2007033001835.html" target="_blank">A woman comes to terms with her daughter’s diagnosis of Down Syndrome and finds happiness.� </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.newsadvance.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=LNA%2FMGArticle%2FLNA_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173350314631&path=%21news%21archive">Actor Chris Burke speakes about having Down Syndrome.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.wthr.com/Global/story.asp?S=6260386&nav=9Tai">Learn about Lily, a beautiful three year old with Down Syndrome.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Cystic Fibrosis Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:30:03 +0000</p> <h2>Cystic Fibrosis</h2> <p>Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation on the person’s 7th chromosome. This mutation is inherited from both parents. Many times the parent is unaware that they are carriers for this disorder until they have a child born with it. Common symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis include salty-tasting skin, foul-smelling stools, greasy stools, delayed growth, frequent infections, especially of the respiratory tract, coughing and wheezing, and rounded, or clubbed, fingers and toes.</p> <p>Cystic Fibrosis can be diagnosed by a procedure called a Sweat Test. In a Sweat Test, sweat is collect from the individual and is analyzed for the amount of sodium chloride in the sample. People with CF have an unusually high amount of sodium chloride in their sweat. This is why a person with CF might taste salty if you kiss them. CF can also be diagnosed by a gene test where a sample of blood is taken and then analyzed to see if the person has inherited a mutation of the 7th chromosome from both parents.</p> <p>In some parts of the world, testing for CF in newborns has become a requirement. It is estimated that 1 in 25 persons of Caucasian decent carry the CF mutation. If a person with the CF mutation marries another with the CF mutation, they have a 25% chance of having a child with Cystic Fibrosis.</p> <p><strong>Articles </strong>Please click on the link to read the full article</p> <p><a href="http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2007/04/24/key_found_to_kill_cystic_fibrosis_superbug.html" target="_blank">Canadian scientist have found a way to kill the Cystic Fibrosis Superbug, Burkholderia cenocepacia </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/42291.html">A British scientist has used genetic material from the HIV virus to correct the Cystic Fibrosis gene. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070320/LIVING01/703200305/-1/ZONES04">Clinical Trials are underway to improve the lives of those who have Cystic Fibrosis.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18117319&BRD=1675&PAG=461&dept_id=18171&rfi=6">Read how the Philadelphia Phillies are helping a young boy with Cystic Fibrosis see his dreams come true.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Cri Du Chat Information</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:27:10 +0000</p> <h2>Cri Du Chat</h2> <p>Cri Du Chat is a genetic syndrome that is caused by a deletion on the short arm of the 5th chromosome. Cri Du Chat literally means “cry of the cat” which is in reference to the cat-like cry of a baby with Cri Du Chat. Other symptoms include low set ears, a small head, epicanthic folds of the eyelids, widely spaced eyes, a small receding chin, and a flat appearing nasal bridge. Not all children with Cri Du Chat will have every feature. For more information on Cri Du Chat, please see the <a href="http://www.criduchat.asn.au/criduchat/what.htm#Diagram%201#Diagram%201">Cri Du Chat support group of Australia. </a></p> <p><strong>Articles� � � </strong>Please click on the link to read the full article.<br /> <a href="http://www.criduchat.asn.au/criduchat/julyen.htm">Read about Julyen.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.criduchat.co.uk/commonbehaviouraldifficulties.html"> Learn about some of the common behavior problems in chidren with Cri Du Chat and how to deal with them.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>New Cerebral Palsy Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:26:21 +0000</p> <h2>Cerebral Palsy</h2> <p>Ceberal Palsy is a neurological disorder that affects muscle coordination and movement. In a child with Ceberal Palsy, there is nothing wrong with the muscles or the nerves connecting the muscle to the brain. The problem lies within the brain itself. A child with Cerebral Palsy has abnormalities in the parts of the brain that control their muscles. Cerebral Palsy can be caused by a traumatic brain injury, prematurity, a failure for the brain to develop properly inutero, or a lack of oxygen to the brain. There are varying degrees of Cerebral Palsy. In one case, a child might have a slight limp and will be perfectly capable of taking care of himself. In another case, a child might require a wheel chair and life-long care.</p> <p><strong>Articles </strong>Please click on the link to read the full story.</p> <p><a href="http://www.2theadvocate.com/features/7286731.html" target="_blank">Cerebral Palsy does not stop a young man from helping out in his community.� </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.western-star.com/n/content/oh/story/news/local/2007/03/23/hjn032207jessi.html">Read Jessi Hutson’s remarkable story. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.rensselaerrepublican.com/articles/2007/03/21/news/education/education01.txt">Kid’s First is helping to teach children, through puppet shows, that Cerebral Palsy is what a person has, not what they are. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.laboratorytalk.com/news/rep/rep100.html">Read how a British furniture company made a specialized lab stool for two young students with Cerebral Palsy.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Cancer Articles</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:25:22 +0000</p> <h2>Cancer</h2> <p>Every year thousands of parents live through their worst nightmare when their child is diagnosed with cancer. The most common form of cancer in children is Leukemia, which is a cancer of the blood. Cancer occurs when cells grow abnormally and then get out of control<strong>.</strong></p> <p><strong>Articles� � </strong>Please click on the link to read the full article.</p> <p><a href="http://news.uky.edu/news/display_article.php?category=1&artid=2168" target="_blank">A childhood cancer survivor is now enjoying life at 31. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.kansan.com/stories/2007/mar/16/profile/?news">Read how Ben Parrot beat cancer.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/137463/retinoblastoma_the_rare_cancer_that.html">Learn about a cancer that every parent should keep an “eye” out for.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome Overview</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:24:39 +0000</p> <h2>Autism and Asperger</h2> <p>Autism is a developmental disability that usually appears before the age of three. Autistic children have impaired social interaction skills, will engage in repetitive activities, and are delayed in communication. The exact cause of autism is unknown, but the number of children diagnosed with this disorder has risen alarmingly over the past 20 years. It is estimated that 1 in every 150 children will be diagnosed with Autism.</p> <p>People with Asperger are sometimes considered to be high functioning Autistics. They usually have an average or above average IQ, but are severely behind in social skills. Many doctors think that there is no difference between Autism and Asperger.</p> <p><strong>Articles� </strong>Please click onthe link to read the full article.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nationalautismconference.org/" target="_blank">The National Autism Conference is to take place November 8 – 11, 2007. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.whptv.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=06b28c20-e91f-41db-aec1-be2e5a0ffd0f" target="_blank">A new bill in Pennsylvania would require insurance companies to cover the costs of Autism treatments. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.countypress.com/stories/041107/loc_20070411008.shtml" target="_blank">Families are seeking compassion and awareness for Autism and Asperger’s </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.ohio.com/mld/ohio/news/17061634.htm">New Program to Register Children With Autism </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.sbsun.com/entertainment/ci_5467425">Read how Ben Anderson lives with Asperger Syndrome.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>ADD/ADHD Overview</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:23:25 +0000</p> <h2>ADD/ADHD</h2> <p>ADD and ADHD are essentially one in the same. The disorder is officially known as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Children and adults with ADD have a hard time concentrating and staying focused on a task given to them. Some also have trouble controlling their impulses. Many people have mistakenly labeled these individuals as “behavior problems,” but this is not the case. People with ADD/ADHD are perfectly able to learn and be successful at life. They just need to learn in a different way.</p> <p><strong>Articles</strong>� � Please click on the link to read the full article.</p> <p><a href="http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/53320.html" target="_blank">A new study shows that Omega-3 fish oil might help children with ADHD. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,21362912-5007146,00.html" target="_blank">Dr Robert Spitzer</a> debates on if children with ADD really need to be medicated.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Diabetes, An Overview</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:21:29 +0000</p> <h2>Diabetes</h2> <p>Diabetes is the result of a person not creating enough insulin (the hormone that converts sugar and other food materials into energy needed by cells) or the person’s body not responding to the insulin made. There are two types of Diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes was once called Juvenile Diabetes because it was usually diagnosed in children or young adults. Type 2 Diabetes is usually diagnosed in older adults and certain ethnic groups such as Africans, Native Americans, Latinos, and Pacific Islanders.</p> <p>Being diagnosed with diabetes is not the end of the world. It just means that you have to live a little more cautiously when it comes to food choices. Many diabetics have a routine of pricking their finger to check blood levels, and they say that, after a while, pricking their finger no longer bothers them. Many diabetics can control their Diabetes by diet alone, but some do have to take insulin artificially. It is important to know how to manage your disease in order to live life to the fullest.</p> <p><strong>Articles� </strong>Please click on the link to read the full article.</p> <p><a href="http://www.wilmingtonstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070411/NEWS/704110420/-1/State" target="_blank">Thirteen from Brazil have thrown out their insulin and are trying to treat their diabetes with their own stem cells. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.smokymountainsentinel.com/news/2007/0411/Community/007.html" target="_blank">Information on Diabetes Camps for children. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.theoaklandpress.com/stories/032507/loc_2007032541.shtml">Learn how one woman controls her Diabetes and does not let it control her. </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=66064">Learn about the possible “missing link” between preDiabetes and Type 2 Diabetes.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.thevictoriaadvocate.com/233/story/29513.html">Information on a summer camp in Texas for children with Diabetes.</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>When you have more than one….</h1> <p>Honey — Tue, 15 May 2007 03:45:26 +0000</p> <p>It can be difficult to find out that you and your spouse are carriers of a potentially deadly disease like Cystic Fibrosis. It is even worse when you find out with the birth of your child. I’ve even heard of parents finding out that their older child has the disease after the younger child is diagnosis. Here is the story of two siblings with Cystic Fibrosis. For more information on Cystic Fibrosis visit the <a href="http://www.cff.org/" target="_blank">Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/05/14/when-you-have-more-than-one/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Young Man Uses Sound to “See”</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 11 May 2007 03:10:27 +0000</p> <p>This is an amazing story about a young man who has been blind since the age of two. He uses sound to “see” the world around him.</p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/05/10/young-man-uses-sound-to-see/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Notes on the Fired Up! For Down Syndrome Conference</h1> <p>Honey — Fri, 11 May 2007 02:33:50 +0000</p> <p>This past weekend my husband and I attended the Fired Up! For Down Syndrome Conference. I must say that it was a very educational experience. One of my favorite speakers was Dr. Bill Mobely who is has been studying the Neurobiology of Down Syndrome at Stanford University. In his presentation, he showed how the neurons in people with Down Syndrome are different than those of “normal” people,� and how the information travels more slowly down the neural pathway in people with Down Syndrome. He has also been trying to find a way to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease which, unfortunately, will strike over 60% of the population of people with Down Syndrome.� There are all ready FDA approved drugs that might prove to be very promising in improving cognitive function and the prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease. All that is needed is more funding for research.� For more information, please visit the <a href="http://dsresearch.stanford.edu/" target="_blank">Down Syndrome Research at Stanford’s website</a>. Some of the things that they are doing is absolutely amazing.</p> <p>Another interesting speaker was Dr. Lawrence Leichtman. He did a presentation on Nutritional Intervention in Down Syndrome. Studies for Nutritional Therapy for Down Syndrome have been around since 1959 when Dr. Henry Turkel developed a formula that was widely used by many with Down Syndrome. Many vitamin therapies have come and gone since then but, unfortunately, some of these were developed by people wanting to take advantage of the parents of children with Down Syndrome. These cruel people promised a cure, when no one can cure a genetic syndrome. Studies have shown that people with Down Syndrome are deficient in certain vitamins due to the extra chromosome interfering with many of the cell’s biological practices.� In particular, people with Down Syndrome have too much Hydrogen Pyroxide which causes cell damage.� Also, one study showed that the nerons of a person with Down Syndrome died much quicker than� a person who did not have Down Syndrome,� but when treated with antioxidents the cells� grew normally. Lately there has been a resurgence of Nutritional Therapy for people with Down Syndrome with the latest formula being Nutrivene D.� Nutrivene D was developed by Dixie Lawrence, the mother of a child with Down Syndrome. She tried recreating the formula used by Turkel in her kitchen. She then turned her formula over to a Canadian based company, but it was then turned over to an American Company, International Nutrition Inc., where the formula is carefully moderated by a council of doctors that includes Dr. Leichtman. For more information, you can visit <a href="http://www.lleichtman.org/">Dr. Leichtman’s website</a> as well as the<a href="http://www.nutrivene.com/" target="_blank"> Nutrivene D website.</a></p> <p>As promised, I was able to record many of the sessions including ones on Transitioning Into Schools and Inclusion. I think that these would be beneficial to anyone who has a special needs child regardless of their disability. We will release these as podcasts soon, so please check back for updates on their release.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Camp Sunshine. Shwachman-Diamond 2006</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:37:21 +0000</p> <p><a href="http://www.campsunshine.org" target="_blank">Camp Sunshine</a> is a free camp located in Maine for children who have life-threatening illnesses and their families. They run several different camps throughout the year which are designed around the child’s particular illness. This video happens to be from Shwachman-Diamond week 2006. For more information on <a href="http://www.campsunshine.org" target="_blank">Camp Sunshine</a> visit their webstie at<a href="http://www.campsunshine.org" target="_blank"> http://www.campsunshine.org.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.specialfamily.net/2007/05/07/camp-sunshine-shwachman-diamond-2006/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Why We Do This</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 03 May 2007 04:59:01 +0000</p> <p style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8112740@N06/482274005/" title="photo sharing"></a></p> <p><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px"><br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8112740@N06/482274005/">100_1856</a></p> <p>Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/8112740@N06/">honeybunny062</a>.<br /> </span></p> <p>Many people wonder why someone sets up the website that they run.� My reason is simple. I have two beautiful boys, Luke and Josh. Luke is almost 2 and has Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome. Josh is still a baby and has Down Syndrome. One thing that I have learned by being the mother of these two wonderful boys is that having support and being educated about your child’s condition can make all the difference in the world.<br /> <br clear="all" /></p> </article> <article> <h1>This week</h1> <p>Honey — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 03:46:53 +0000</p> <p>I have mentioned before that the <a href="www.dsamt.org" target="_blank">Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee</a> is having a Down Syndrome Conference May 4-5. I am excited to say that, not only will I be attending, but several of the speakers have given me permission to record their sessions so that I may podcast them on this site. Some of the topics to be covered include Inclusion, Early Intervention to IEP, Reading and Literacy, and Speech and Communication.</p> <p>It will take a few days after the conference for the podcast to appear, but be on the lookout for them.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Odds and Ends</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 22:29:26 +0000</p> <p>Just an update to let everyone know that the site is about 60% complete. We appreciate your patience as we work hard to complete it.� Also,� we hope to publish our first podcast by the end of the month. We have an interview that is in the process of being set up that will deal with Music Therapy. If you have any specific questions that you would like for us to ask about Music Therapy during our podcast interview, please <a href="http://specialfamily.net/contact-us/" target="_blank">contact us</a>.</p> <p>For those of you who live in the Middle Tennessee area, The Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee will have the 2007 Fired Up! For Down Syndrome Conference May 4th and 5th. There will be several sessions that both parents and professionals can attend. Some of the topics to be covered include Nutritional Supplements, Music and Art Therapy, Sleep Disorders, After Early Intervention, Mental Health Concerns, Potty Training, Opportunities After High School, Speech in the Early Years, and much more. The registration fee is $50 per parent or family member and that includes lunch for both days. You can visit the <a href="http://www.dsamt.org/" target="_blank">Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee’s website</a> for more information.</p> </article> <article> <h1>The basics of special education</h1> <p>Honey — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 03:32:27 +0000</p> <p><font face="Times New Roman">By Honey Denson� </font></p> <p><font face="Times New Roman">Education is one of the main concerns expressed by parents of special needs children. They want their children to be included in all aspects of the academic experience and not be left behind simply because they are considered “different.” </font></p> <p><font face="Times New Roman">The education of a special needs child begins at birth. First and foremost, a baby is a baby, no matter what their health status is. All babies need love and attention for proper brain stimulation. Read to your baby. <span>� </span>Sing songs and recite nursery rhymes. But most important, give a lot of hugs, kisses, and “I love yous’.”</font><font face="Times New Roman">In 2004 the </font><a target="_blank" href="http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=108_cong_public_laws&docid=f:publ446.108"><font face="Times New Roman">Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act</font></a><font face="Times New Roman"> or </font><a target="_blank" href="http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=108_cong_public_laws&docid=f:publ446.108"><font face="Times New Roman">IDEA</font></a><font face="Times New Roman"> was passed. It basically ensures that all children, regardless of their disability have the right to a free public education including early intervention. If you think that your child might require special education, you can request that your child be evaluated by your state’s early intervention program. If your child is delayed 40% in one area or delayed 20% in two areas, he or she will qualify for services. You and the early intervention services will then create what is known as an </font><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ldaamerica.org/aboutld/professionals/guidelines.asp"><font face="Times New Roman">Individualized Family Service Plan</font></a><font face="Times New Roman">, or IFSP. An IFSP is basically a road map that shows where your child is and where you would like them to go. The IFSP will include goals for your child to reach, what type of services will be needed in order to reach these goals (physical therapy, speech therapy, etc…), who will be providing these services, how frequently will these services be provided, and where these services will take place. The IFSP is reviewed every year to make sure that the child is on track and if services need to be added or dropped.</font><font face="Times New Roman">At the age of three, the child will go through transition. Basically they will move from early intervention with an IFSP to public special education with an </font><a target="_blank" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Individualized_Education_Program"><font face="Times New Roman">Individualized Education Program,</font></a><font face="Times New Roman"> or IEP. The IEP will include new goals for the child and how they will be met. The IEP is reviewed every year. Those present at the IEP meeting may include the parents, a general education teacher, a special education teacher, an administrator of the school, specialists in your child’s disability (invited by you or the school), guidance councilors, and, if you wish, <span>� </span>your child.</font></p> <p><font face="Times New Roman">When making or reviewing your child’s IEP, it might be a good idea to bring along a little packet explaining who your child is and what you think is the best direction for your child’s education. Frequently the general education teacher and administrators at the meeting know nothing about your child. The only thing they know is that they have had their schedule interrupted to attend an IEP meeting about a child that they will probably never see in a classroom setting (the general education teacher does not have to be a teacher that your child has). Having a little booklet of information about your child gives them a story and a reason to care. You can include pictures, art work that your child has made, or even copies of their baby book pages. Let them know how wonderful your child is and how hard you are working to make sure that they are getting the best education possible. </font></p> <p><font face="Times New Roman">If you ever feel that your child’s goals are not being met, you have the right to call the administrators and remind them of IEP and its goals and how you think that the problem might be fixed. Not having enough money is not an excuse that the schools can use in defense if an IEP goal is not being met. They will have to find a way. </font></p> <p><font face="Times New Roman">Making sure that a special needs child has the education that they deserve is up to the parent. You are your child’s best advocate. Make sure that you know as much about your child’s condition as possible and take the time to review your child’s rights as stated in IDEA. You are your child’s best hope for a bright academic future.</font></p> </article> <article> <h1>Stores are up and running.</h1> <p>Honey — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 03:31:56 +0000</p> <p>We are proud to announce that our <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/jvme0a1-20" target="_blank">Special Family Books</a><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/jvme0a1-20" target="_blank">tore</a> and our<a href="http://discoverytoyslink.com/educatenow" target="_blank"> Educational Toy Store</a> are both up and running. Please feel free to visit each one to see if there are any products that might be helpful to you or your special needs child. 10% of our profits from the <a href="http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/home/educatenow" target="_blank">Educational Toy Store</a> will go to <a href="http://www.shwachmandiamondamerica.org/" target="_blank">Shwachman-Diamond America</a>.</p> </article> </main></body></html>