I gave birth to Jeni on 12/10/01. I had a somewhat complicated pregnancy with Jeni. I just assumed that was because she was a girl. I did however, have some spotting at 6 weeks along, I knew something was wrong. At the next ultrasound, they did see a tear in my amniotic sac, but by that time the tear had minded itself. Jeni was all girl from the start. I went almost two weeks past my due date and had to be induced. The delivery was wonderful, she was born within 5 hours after induction. I had a room full of friends and family with me. I knew the minute she was born something was wrong, the whole room grew silent. The doctors assured me she was fine, but that her left hand had not fully formed. I was floored. I spent the next few days crying and wondering what I had done wrong. I was also concerned about how she would be treated growing up. I realized that Jeni is a beautiful child and that her hand is by no means a set back. At almost 4 years old she has managed to potty train herself (by 3) and do things that even my 5 year old son can not do. She dresses herself (several times a day) and is even trying to tie her own shoes. Every day is a miracle with her. I will never forget the day I watched my baby pick up a smartie (Candy) with her "lucky hand". We call it this so that we can compare her hand to Nemo's fin. Children relate better to this. I would not change her for the world. I feel that I am a very lucky mom to have been chosen to raise such a girl. She is very confident and will show anyone her lucky hand at any given time.
I live in the Charleston SC area, feel free to contact me if you would like
Lucky mom to Jeni and Aaron
Cindy
