Two Month Check up

Harper had her two month check up this past Wednesday and weighed in at 9 lbs 11.4 oz (75%)and was 23" long (78%). Her head circumference was 14" (.32%) which had Jacob very concerned. I tried to explain to him given the combination of a traditional smaller size of a Down syndrome baby and our babies generally having smaller heads, she was just fine. The doctor looks for the pattern of growth more so than the actual number. After getting Hayden and Hadley's baby books out to compare, we found Harper to be right on track with where they were at the same age. Both Hayden and Hadley's HC was 14.5" at two months. It is a hereditary thing and apparently from my side :)

I mentioned my suspicion of Harper being mosaic and in order to fully answer that question, we will be seeing a geneticist at ACH, currently scheduled for January 6th. I will be calling back once a week, until then, to see if I can get in earlier on a cancelled appointment. This information won't change anything nor will it give any immediate insight as to which chromosomes are effected, but it will provide us with a percentage of how many chromosomes are effected. We will only see which chromosomes are effected as she grows and develops. In my discussion of Harper and mosaicism, I mentioned the subtleness of her features, one being her simian crease. Previously, I wrote about Harper having one completely normal hand and the other, while not the same, certainly not a true complete and single line. After showing this to her pediatrician, she confirmed what I was referring to and went as far as to state she wouldn't even term it as a simian crease. So, that is further affirmation into what I had theorized. So fascinating!

Today is also the first day of Down Syndrome Awareness month. I challenge each of you to step out of your comfort zone and celebrate the beauty of those with Down Syndrome through acceptance and inclusion. There will be many events and activities, through the month of October, such as Buddy Walk, to promote and bring about awareness of individuals born with this genetic condition. Be on the lookout for how you can get involved in your part of the country! Down Syndrome Awareness month is not only about providing an education about DS, but tearing down walls and alleviating stereotypes as well. Just two short months ago, I myself, wasn't very "aware" of Down Syndrome, but through the gift of Harper, I am aware, sensitive, compassionate and thirsting for more information on how I can do my part to dispel the stereotypes associated with DS.

I read a wonderful quote by the COO of the National Down Syndrome Society who said, "People with Down syndrome, like everyone else, are people first, each with their own unique gifts to contribute to their families, friends and communities." I find that to be true of everyone. We are all people first, traveling through life trying to discover who we are and what our place is in society. How sad that would be if we were excluded based on our inabilities rather than our abilities. I am on a journey to cure exclusion, will you join me?