Meet Phoenix

My daughter was diagnosed this year with Cerebral Palsy Spastic Diplegia. This girl is the reason that I breathe! The reason that I am motivated to get up and go to work in the morning. Phoenix, who is now 4 years old which is crazy to say. I guess the saying they say is true, the days are long but the years are short. 

This year in April she was diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) which is a type of brain injury that affects premature infants. It is a type of cerebral palsy, with symptoms of spastic diplegia, which causes tightness in the muscles of the legs. She has a mild form of this meaning that her posture is great, she has control of her arms and head and she is not affected at all mentally. The doctors really think that she will one day walk, but it will take a lot of work. 

With the help from my parents she is enrolled in Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. She has also been in preschool since the day she turned 3. It took so long to get answers, but Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Chicago is the reason we are where we are now. We would still be totally unsure without their help. If you have a child like mine, if you are a parent needing help and answers I highly recommend the Shriner’s children’s hospital. They really care, they help you in every way possible. Definitely check them out. They are located all over the United States. 

She’s a hilarious and happy little girl and there is never a dull moment. I will continue to share her story. Come follow us on Instagram to see more behind the scenes. @xheyjacqueline