Thursday, May 10, 2012

Pediatric Stroke Awareness Month

Hello dear readers.  May is Pediatric Stroke Awareness Month!  Many of you know that my son, Charlie (21 months old), is a stroke survivor.  His stroke occurred  before he was even born.  When I first found out about Charlie's condition, I was devastated and totally confused.  I did not know that children could have strokes.  I thought they only happened in the older population.  But its a lot more common than I imagined.  1 in 4000 children will have a stroke.  Many parents don't even realize that their children have had a stroke and can they go undiagnosed for months. This is why I'm encouraging you to visit the CHASA (Children's Hemiplegia and Stroke Association) website for more information - especially if you have or know someone who has little ones.



As for Charlie, he is making amazing strides this month.  He is starting to sit unassisted for more than a minute at a time, is using the signs for "more" and "up" to communicate with his family and therapists, is giving high fives and is just starting to drink from a cup. These are all huge milestones for Charlie and we're all encouraged and thrilled by his progress.  Please share Charlie's story with friends and family in honor of Pediatric Stroke Awareness month. To learn more about Charlie's journey or to help contribute to his medical fund, please visit Help Charlie Heal.  Thanks as always for your amazing support and love for my little guy.  Go Charlie Fighting Bear!

4 comments:

Anne-Marie @ 10 Rooms said...

I'm so glad to hear that your son is reaching these milestones. My cousin's son had a stroke at age four, and we were completely shocked. I had no idea the occurrence rate was so high. Charlie is lucky to have a wonderful, supportive Mum to help him reach his goals through life.

Connie said...

It always makes me so happy to hear about Charlie's progress. He is one of the lucky ones, especially lucky to have such amazing parents!

Danielle Sigwalt Interiors said...

So happy to hear that he's hitting some great milestones and what a great smile Charlie Bear! I call my older son the exact same thing :). And thanks for sharing...I never knew about strokes in children either. And I agree with Anne-Marie..Charlie is so blessed to be born to such a wonderful/caring mother. Happy Mother's Day! xx Danielle

Anonymous said...

Dear Sarah!
I wish you and you lovely SON CHARLIE and your family
all the best of the BEST of HEALTH, LOVE, SUCCESS, MONEY to support you and - all FUN!!!
Best regards,
Zazza Susanne Jebara