NAM: Before and After

Here is a side-by-side view of how much Cooper's gap has come together. His palate gap was over 12mm wide and as of almost a month ago it is actually touching! 

     Left: 1 Day Old, Middle: 3 Months using NAM before Nasal Stent, Right: 1 Week Old

My Little Blondie 

 Front of palate finally touches!

       Last Stage of Cooper's NAM. It is shaved off as much as possible and no more acrylic can be added.

Fun at the Pumpkin Patch

Cooper had his first trip the the pumpkin patch yesterday. We had a bit of a late start, but we enjoyed some delicious food and took a spin on the hayride with the company of his Cousin, Aunt, and Uncle. We sure did catch the attention of many children yesterday. I do know they are only children, but the looks on some of their faces just made me so upset. There was this young girl in line in front of us who literally did not take her eyes off Cooper the ENTIRE time. This was the first  time a little child has ever made me so uncomfortable. Usually children come right up and ask, "What happened?" or "What's wrong with his lip?" which I don't mind by any means. It is when they gawk that really disturbs me. But, I know it's all in parenting, 99% of the children that notice Coop in public usually are very polite and know not to stare too long.  Thank you to those of you who instill good manners in your children. I know parents of children who look a little different really appreciate it. This is just something that is part of having a cleft child I guess, and I would not change a thing!

Thank You Dr. Logan!

Cooper met his NEW pediatrician Friday Dr. Logan. He appears to be very nice and personable which is what any parent would look for in his/her child's doctor. Cooper's previous Dr. cancelled the last few appts. which certainly gave off the impression she had way too many patients and wasn't able to give the best care possible so I finally got my foot in the door at another Dr.'s office. My little boy now weighs 15lbs 2oz and is 26 3/4 inches at almost six months. He went from the 5% in weight to 12% and is now in a normal percentile for height.