Appearance
Some of our
children, as mentioned previously, appear to resemble each
other, and often are labeled by medical professionals as being “dysmorphic”.
This term can be upsetting to parents, but basically is just a
medical way of suggesting the presence of a genetic syndrome.
Some of our children
have deep set eyes, lower set ears, and a longer upper lip
(referred to as
“philtrum”). Many
of our children have smaller feet. Our children also seem to
have longer, tapering fingers. When we did our study in 2009, a
specialist who looks at the differences in children with genetic
conditions was unable to pinpoint a specific “look” for our
children, however most of the parents in our group are able to
see the similarities.
We find it quite remarkable to see how much some of our
children look alike.


What are
some of the common problems children with ES have at birth?
Many of our
children have difficulties immediately following birth, and
often, they are kept in the hospital for an extended period of
time. Some of the most common reasons our children have been
kept in the hospital following birth were because of
complications related to
hypotonia,
problems with feeding, requiring surgery, requiring oxygen
therapy, or
jaundice. Other
problems that have been seen include seizures, infection, or
problems with breathing.
Despite the
fact that some of our children have had difficulties with
feeding after birth, some mothers have successfully breastfed
their children.
What are
children with ES like?
Some of our
members wanted to tell other parents, that above all, it is
possible for our children to have a meaningful, happy life. They
are happy; they will smile, giggle, show affection, and feel
loved, like any other child. Often, when a parent receives the
diagnosis, they are not given a very human picture of what it
will be like to parent their child beyond what to expect
medically or developmentally. Yes, it will be difficult. Yes,
your child will face challenges, but they will also just love
being your baby and you will love them. Some of our parents have
felt that when given the diagnosis they are painted a very grave
picture of what their children’s lives will be like. We want to
give you the peace of mind that our children are very much
loved, feel love and express love. They will learn at their own
pace and bring joy to their families.