For The Babies

     Mother's Day is right around the corner.  So if you haven't gotten your mom a card or gift, get movin!  I found a YouTube video that fits right in with this significant holiday.  Take a peek and smile.  Also, with every YouTube viewing, Becoming Mom will donate ten cents to March of Dimes to help reduce birth defects and prevent premature births!

     On a similar note, this past weekend, I had the honor of participating in the March of Dimes Walk For Babies in Rockford, IL.  This was my second walk with the Team Rylan and Lily group.  It is mostly our family but some great friends always join us. 

Team Rylan and Lily

     My sister, Jamie, started Team Rylan a few years ago in honor of her son.  Rylan has Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) and had his first heart surgery at two days old.  HLHS is when the left side of the heart does not grow to the right size.  The left side of the heart is essential because it pumps the blood to the rest of the body.  There are really only two options for HLHS patients~  multiple heart surgeries or a heart transplant.  My sister and brother-in-law opted for the surgeries.  He has since had two more heart surgeries and is now a wild and rambunctious 2 year old!  Rylan is the type of little guy that brings a smile to everyone and makes you happy.  During all of his difficult moments, he would smile and spread joy and love to everyone.  We are truly blessed from God with Rylan.

Rylan and Jamie

     When my daughter, Lily, was born, my sister upgraded Team Rylan!  We now became Team Rylan and Lily.  For those of you that don't know, Lily has Phenylketonuria (PKU).  PKU is a Metabolic Genetic Disorder with no cure.  However, it can be controlled.  Patients with PKU do not have the capability of breaking apart a specific type of protein, phenylalanine, into an amino acid.  If phenylalanine builds up in the blood stream then the body can not rid itself of it and permanent brain damage occurs.  PKU is managed through a VERY strict diet.  It can be frustrating, but trust me I love the fact that it's manageable! 

Lily and Daddy

My Girls~ Chloe & Lily

Lily and her penant

Andrew and the Rockford Guardians!