People often ask me, "How's Addie?" followed by other questions. I've posted their questions and my answers below to update you on our lovely angel Addie!
Q: How big is she? Addie is 28" long and 13 lbs. She struggles to gain weight due to many energy expending seizures and her struggle to breathe and swallow secretions or aspiration issues. Basically, it's like she is continually exercising.
Q: Is she potty-trained? No--this little tyke is my "baby forever"! She is like a living doll that I get to dress, change, bathe, feed, and put fancy bows in her hair.
Q: Does Addie still have seizures? Yes--on a good day, she has about 20. On rough days, about 60.
Q: Have you tried cannabis? Yes--but not consistently, so we haven't seen long-term effects of CBD use for her.
Q: Is she on any medications now? No--Addie is drug-free and lovin' it! She's very present with us now that her mind isn't altered by the prescription drugs. We love it too!
Q: Can she talk? Addie does not verbally communicate. She has learned to cry somewhat in the cutest, most adorable manner. Think of a tiny puppy dog whimpering, and then you'll get the feeling we all have when she cries.
Q: Is she sleeping better at night? Yes and so am I! After 3 years, I think both Addie and I mostly get about 5-6 hours of sleep, instead of 3-4. She's sleeping for longer stretches at night, not needing to wake up for food. . . which may be backfiring on her weight gain . . . but how nice it is to sleep without as many interruptions. Beep, Beep, Beep!
Q: Can she eat anything by mouth? No--Addie's seizures prevent her from knowing how to swallow without it going into her lungs. She continues to be g-tube fed.
Q: Can she move or walk or crawl? No. Addie is immobile and depends upon us to reposition her frequently throughout the day to prevent bed sores and to just keep life interesting for her.
Q: Is she still on oxygen? Yes--when her oxygen is off, her oxygen saturation drops. She cannot maintain her oxygen levels without assistance.
Q: Can Addie play with toys? We like to try. They often stress her out.
Q: Do you have anyone to help you take care of her? A wonderful respite nurse comes for 3 hours a week. Addie's grandpa comes and holds her frequently so I can catch up on household tasks.
Q: And finally, are you just worn out? No, the Lord sustains me. I've been able to continue all that I did before Addie was born and more...just at a slower pace. Addie also gives back more to us than we ever give to her. She is so sweet; her spiritual presence is very strong. She is super cute and we love the little evidences of progress she is making. Addie fills our homes and hearts with the light of Christ and draws us nearer to Him. We are so blessed by this precious gift from heaven.
P.S. About 5 years ago, as I read the scriptures and attended the temple, I came to realize that as women if we do not mother all life on this planet, who will? I started this blog to do something about promoting life by bringing awareness to abortion. In the busyness of motherhood, I only posted a few things initially. Then Addie came along, and this blog became a way to update others on her progress & her precious, valued life. She has taught me so many things. I've written one of those lessons in a recent article titled Full Circle. In it, you'll see how Addie has made this blog come full circle and find ways to support every precious life coming to earth. I invite you to keep reading . . . .
