Sunday, July 29, 2012

Gastroschisis Awareness Day Celebration, Texas Style

So, I'm sure you've heard me mention a time or two that my daughter was born almost two years ago with a birth defect called gastroschisis. That is where the abdominal wall doesn't close in utero and the intestines (and sometimes other organs) are outside of the body at birth. July 30th has been recognized by a few states as the official Gastroschisis Awareness Day, so we had our annual celebration yesterday. It was held at Cook Hospital in Fort Worth. 



Over 120 people showed up, we filled that entire room. 


Three full bags of things were donated. Thank you to my reader Amanda who sent in some headbands to donate! 


Yup! Gastroschisis Awareness Day is officially recognized in the state of Texas, thank you Governor Rick Perry! 


These are the gastro kids that were the stars of the event. 


Daddy and his princess. She's wearing the official color of gastroschisis: green! 



Oh so thankful for this little girl. 


The Carter blood drive van was on site. 21 units of blood were donated, which means that it can save the lives of 252 babies! 


It was a great time, and it was nice to finally meet the other gastro parents in the area. It was a definite reminder that gastroschisis isn't a "one time and done" thing, there were a few kids who still had tubes attached to them and others that still have on going complications. So say a prayer for these kiddos, and hug your kids tight, moms. They're a precious, precious gift. 

5 people love me:

Lisa Fliehman said... [Reply to comment]

My, how she has grown!! She sure is precious!!

Janice said... [Reply to comment]

What a great day and how great to see all those little kids. Ava is so adorable!

SkinnyMeg said... [Reply to comment]

How awesome! I love her sweet skirt, I'm thinking her awesome Mommy made it for her?

Amanda said... [Reply to comment]

Yay! I'm so glad you got them on time... I think I even saw a few in the box. :)

Patricia @ CorninmyCoffee-pot said... [Reply to comment]

My grandson was born with gastroschisis in 2010-- he's now surviving and thriving-- praise God ! Happy to see this event and that this disease is recognized by state officials .