Searching for Alternatives- My Journey

Disclosure:  All opinions expressed are my own.

As you read I want you to understand that I am not telling this story for pity.  I am a lucky momma, and am fully aware of how blessed I am that my daughter is and will continue to be just fine.  Everyone has a story and this is mine. 

I was a lucky momma with two very conventional pregnancies.  Like other mommas I did everything I was told.  I ate only what was recommended, was careful to be safe with everything.  I took my role as carrier and protector VERY seriously. I read books, I planned, I organized, I was ready.

Both (A) and (E) were great babies.  At 14 days old things changed a bit for little (E).  We discovered a dermatological issue (called a Hemangioma) that landed us in the hospital for 5 days.  During those days little (E) was titrated onto a medication that she would have to take until she was at least 1 year old.  Additionally, because these marks are often indicators that there are underlying issues she was put through almost every test under the sun.

These tests uncovered several other issues including a tethered spinal cord (which she had spine surgery on at 15 months and is doing fine).  It led to having specialists that I never knew existed, and at least monthly trips to the city to see them.  Thank God most her issues are what are called “normal anomalies” things that she will “grow out of”.  Looking at or spending time with her, you would NEVER know.

Most recently we found that she has several allergies, and asthma, which has contributed to several hospital stays, and many changes around my house.

My mother actually raised me homeopathically.  As a child we were vaccinated, but went to see a special doctor who treated ailments with more natural methods.  Not that she didn’t or doesn’t believe in modern medicine (we had antibiotics when absolutely necessary).  I of course share many of the same beliefs.

• I was adamant that my children be breastfed for the first year of life, when (A) didn’t latch I made it happen and exclusively pumped for a year. (Special thanks to RNYD who supported me completely).
• I made all of their baby food (see our feeding baby page for how).
• I don’t like to give my children medication when I don’t have to.

I in no way think that these things make me a better mom than any other mother out there.  It makes me the type of mom I wanted to be.

Naturally, I was a little disappointed when (E) needed several medications long term.  I do however see the necessity and she has taken them as she has needed.

I have though started looking into other ways to keep the kiddies healthy since.  Not wanting to add to the medications and chemicals that they are exposed to has led me to several different changes.

• I installed a water softener in the house.
• I have tried to use more natural cleaners.
• The kids have an extra heap-filter in their room, as does our new vacuum, and we have the extra filter on our central air.
• I use essential oils for immunity as well as for when they are sick (unless it gets really serious and they need medical attention.)
• I have them in classes that help them develop necessary skills for fine and gross motor movement, as well as good health habits (mental and physical).

This has led me to a place where I would like to share some of my experience and the things that I have found with you all.  I am going to host a variety of “Wellness Workshops” for parents where you can come and learn about some of the things I have used (or do).  Admission is free, and there will be some where you can purchase the items discussed.  Mostly though, you can get answers to questions and learn (while meeting other like minded parents in the area). 

If you are interested in learning more, make sure to watch our Facebook Feed as well as our Events Page for dates, times and details as space will be limited.  We will hold multiples of each if there is interest, but would like to keep things smaller and more intimate when possible (oh and we are doing our best to have children’s activities available as well). 

Mark your calendar and keep an eye out for our first workshop on 4/14 at 6:00 at Wayne’s World in Nanuet.  Facebook event as well as a full explanation to come this week!!!