Limitations - What I've Learned so Far

Since Maddie Grace's birth I've been very aware that she will face certain challenges. She will likely walk later than average, she will likely speak later than average, her cognitive ability will likely be delayed. All of that can be really scary and overwhelming to a new mother. It's overwhelming to me. I find myself sometimes analyzing her every move. I often think is that normal behavior or is it related to her diagnosis? One thing I'm working on, and I have a feeling it will be an ongoing process, is seeing past Maddie Grace's diagnosis. After all it's what I ask of others so at the very least it's something I need to be practicing myself. I think it's a delicate balance, being aware of where she needs to be in her gross motor, fine motor, and social skills and not allowing myself to become consumed with making sure she's on target. We are going to be starting early intervention soon, but I find myself panicking because we haven't started already.

I want the world for Maddie Grace but she is constantly reminding me that everything is going to be ok. Like on Friday night, we were practicing tummy time on our new mat for the hardwood floors.  Maddie Grace has been incredibly strong since birth. She is constantly kicking her feet and moving her arms. She is able to get her hips and legs in the air, but looses her balance before she is able to flip over. So I've been supporting her hips with one finger to encourage her to roll over from her belly to her back and to help her build her muscles. Well Maddie Grace was getting extremely frustrated being on her belly and was determined to get out of that position.  I wasn't touching her at all, in fact, I was talking to Adam, and all of a sudden she flipped over onto her back all by herself! Adam and I were amazed! We cheered like she had just finished running a marathon.  Her Aunt Tashia even reassured me when I mentioned it was probably a fluke that "it takes muscle strength, control, and determination" to roll over. (She has since rolled over two more times). She already amazes me at every turn!

I refuse to set limitations for Maddie Grace; I know she's an individual and will never cease to amaze me when it comes to her development. I'm just going to have to keep reminding myself to look past her diagnosis and stop analyzing her every movement. I know that with time the Down syndrome diagnosis will fade into the background of our lives. Until that time I'll cut myself a little slack and rejoice in the everyday achievements.