Amniotic Band Syndrome - ABS
Jeni's ABS Story

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

Thanks,

 

Lucky mom to Jeni and Aaron

Cindy

Previous item   31 of 57   Next item