Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that catch you off guard. A plain email with just two words in the subject line drew me in, providing a sneak peek into my daughter’s world. As I opened the email titled “Progress Report,” I quickly scrolled through the message from her preschool teacher, unaware of the emotional rollercoaster that was about to unfold.
As I read, tears started to mingle with my morning coffee. My heart felt heavy as I reflected on the struggles my daughter faced due to her premature birth.
The report itself was mostly encouraging. My daughter, Lily, is described as compassionate and kind, always looking out for her classmates. However, one particular line hit me like a ton of bricks: “Sometimes we are unsure if Lily understands what we are asking of her. However, if we wait a moment and guide her, she does just fine.”
To an outsider, this might seem like an insignificant note, but for parents of premature children, such comments carry a weighty meaning. Lily is our only surviving triplet, born as a micro-preemie at the edge of viability. At just 3 years old, she has navigated more medical appointments and therapies than most people do in a lifetime. Recently, she graduated from physical, speech, and occupational therapies and is now proudly attending preschool—a milestone we once thought was out of reach.
Despite her many accomplishments, I still see her struggles. Her speech therapists suspect she has apraxia, a condition that affects her ability to express herself verbally. While her brain processes information perfectly, finding the right words to say can be a challenge. Just the other day, during a conversation with a little boy, Lily attempted to express herself multiple times, leading him to ask, “What’s wrong with her? Why does she keep saying the same thing?” I didn’t rush her; instead, I smiled and patiently waited for her to catch up with her thoughts.
Though speech delays are common for toddlers, this progress report served as a stark reminder that the journey isn’t over. While her physical challenges may be behind us, future hurdles remain, often invisible. Given her history of a brain bleed and being born over 17 weeks premature, there’s a significant chance she might face academic challenges down the road. That thought is heartbreaking.
Lily didn’t ask for this journey. As a parent to a preemie, I oscillate between frustration and guilt. Watching your child navigate life’s obstacles feels like a punch to the gut, and the “lump in your throat” sensation can strike at any moment.
Yet, I find comfort in recalling all that my daughter has already overcome. When she was born weighing a mere pound, her survival odds were less than 10%. Yet, here she is, defying every statistic and expectation thrown her way.
Lily is perfect just as she is, with each challenge making her uniquely remarkable. Observing her tackle each obstacle is truly inspiring.
As the meaning of the progress report sank in, I took a deep breath and wiped my tears away. Life throws different challenges at all of us, some more daunting than others. With her determination and positive spirit, I have no doubt Lily will navigate whatever lies ahead.
While her future remains a mystery, one thing is certain: she won’t let anything stand in her way. For more insights on similar journeys, check out our blog on intracervicalinsemination.com or visit makeamom.com for helpful resources on fertility. Additionally, the CDC provides excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Navigating life with a premature child comes with unique challenges. My daughter Lily, our only surviving triplet, has shown remarkable resilience despite her speech difficulties and medical history. While her preschool progress report highlights her kindness and compassion, it also reminds me of the hurdles she may face in the future. With determination and support, I believe she will overcome whatever comes her way.