Some genetics

We found out this past week the cause of Alex's hearing loss--it is genetic. Spencer and I both have a recessive gene, conexxin 26, which results in hearing loss. It is so strange to find this out. We had a 25% chance with each pregnancy to have a baby with hearing loss. Luckily, I didn't know that during my 5 pregnancies! Also, we don't see hearing loss in our family lines, so we never would have guessed that we had this possibility. There is a positive side to having this information. I'm glad to know that I didn't "do anything wrong" while pregnant with him. For Alex, we know that his hearing loss isn't caused by another syndrome that could cause more problems for him. This is a great relief. And now we move on.

What we've learned so far...

Spencer has wanted me to post what we've learned about having a deaf/hard of hearing baby so far--he's only 4 months old, but someone searching for information on a just-diagnosed baby may find this helpful. First of all, order the free video from oraldeafed.org. This will be the best video you'll ever see--and I dare you to watch it without crying. Second, get hearing aids before three months of age. These hearing aids need to be put on with tupee tape--they'll NEVER stay on without it. Plan on getting new molds every month--pay the extra for overnight shipping. Now, for what to do. Talk, talk, talk, talk to your baby. When you're done with that, sing, sing, sing. Nursery rhymes and a sing-song voice are great. Touch your baby's arms, legs, tummy with a touch that goes with your voice--tap him when making a "Bbb" sound, stroke his arm with a longer sound. Take turns conversing with him when he/she babbles. Intervention needs to be provided to you by an AV specialist--contact your state's school for the deaf and blind. You may want to register for the online classes at the John Tracy Clinic--it's free for parents. I hope this helps. I wonder if those reading this blog who have older deaf/hard of hearing children will laugh at how little we know now, but I plan to know as much as is available before Alex hits kindergarten--in his mainstreamed classroom.

Christmas pics

We had a fun, fun, fun Christmas. Anna was VERY surprised to get a digital camera from Papa--she'd planned to use her own money to buy one in the after-Christmas sales. The girls were beautiful in their dresses from Grandma Ann. The boys loved their toys and having the whole day to play with them.