Things I've Learned in 7 Years as Teddy's Mom

Seven years ago today, Teddy made his entrance into this world in a rather dramatic fashion. As we celebrate his birthday during a pandemic this year, where birthday celebrations look much different, I thought it would be a good time to reflect on lessons learned living with Teddy. In no particular order, here goes:

1. I know what seizures look like. Well, at least a wide variety of seizures. There's still a part of me that wonders if we've missed some of Teddy's seizure activity because we're not well enough trained to see them. But those shake, rattle and roll ones, those we recognize.
2. A rare genetic disorder diagnosis changes everything and nothing in an instant.
3. The world is much smaller than you think. Teddy's gotten birthday cards from Poland and birthday greetings from Germany and Australia from other families with his diagnosis.
4. Live in the moment. All the time.
5. If you are excited to see someone, show them. Preferably by jumping up and down and grinning like a maniac. 
6. If something is fun, share it with others. Fun things aren't meant to be hoarded, they're meant to be shared.
7. If you're hungry and it looks tasty, eat it. Apparently this applies to paper products as well ... not sure about that.
8. If someone says no to a request, you clearly didn't ask them in the right way. Continue to ask, and be persistent. They'll often agree to your request eventually. 
9. Licking people is funny.
10. Only one person can ride in the back of an ambulance ... if they even let one person. Otherwise, only one person can ride up front. 
11. We have an incredibly supportive family, who will drop anything and come when needed, even in the middle of the night. 
12. Cell phone service in the Oshkosh emergency room is rather poor.
13. Speech, OT, PT, hippotherapy and music therapy all can do amazing things to help someone progress. 
14. Progress can be measured in inchstones rather than milestones.
15. It is possible to backpack a 55-pound child who is getting really tall. It's just not possible for long distances anymore. 
16. Persistence is key. If you keep trying, eventually, you can find a way to do most things. It may not be pretty or perfect, but you can find a way to make things work.
17. Always bring baby wipes to swim class. Always bring baby wipes everywhere. Wiping poop with your fingers is something you never want to repeat.
18. Poison Control Center folks are really pleasant and helpful. Multiple calls have confirmed this.
19. On a related note, a child can consume an entire bottle of children's tylenol and be fine if they are the same weight as Teddy was. Also, if a child consumes hand sanitizer, the greatest risk is alcohol poisoning and you should watch for signs of drunkenness. Oh, vitamin E in small doses isn't overly problematic either.
20. Smile at other people. It makes life better.
21. My TEAM Triumph is an amazing organization that builds incredible connections in our communities. If you enjoy running, biking or swimming, you should definitely check it out. You don't need to be an incredible athlete to be an angel and make a difference in someone's life. Some of our greatest supports come from MTT. #runlikeangels
22. Children's Hospital has some incredible doctors and nurses, as does Oshkosh emergency room.
23. Dr. Terrence Edgar is an absolutely phenomenal pediatric neurologist. I hope Teddy ages out of pediatrics before he retires or moves. 
24. National Institutes of Health does all sorts of rather awesome research and treatment. There's also an extremely nice facility for families to stay at during their visits there, although airport-level security is required each time you enter the facility. 
25. Life doesn't go as planned. Ever. But trusting that God has a plan and the prayers and love of all our support help us manage through life. 

Happy 7th birthday Teddy!