Alora's Story
Like every toddler, Alora is a handful, her mom Sarah said. She gets into things she’s not supposed to and hardly ever sits still, but along with the typical mischief, her mom needs to keep an eye on her medical equipment as well.
“I’ve got to watch her just like everybody else, but I’ve also got to watch her trach and G-tube,” Sarah said. “She just comes with a little extra care, which only makes me love her more. I get to love her even more than I had to. It’s amazing. I wouldn’t change anything about her.”
Alora came into this world early and with several health complications, including bilateral vocal paralysis and liquid over her heart (Sarah gave a specific and heartfelt thanks to Dr. Saldahar at Valley Baptist for saving her life regarding this). She lived in the NICU for the first five months of her life. It took doctors some time to determine that Alora required a G-tube and trach. She got them placed in a double procedure.
Their family hit a few more road bumps along the road of getting Alora home from the hospital. Sarah said that her Wave respiratory therapist, Marco, offered support through the ups and downs.
“I know Marco is very busy … but [he] would take the time to meet with us at the pulmonologist just to put his input in and listen to what the doctor had to say. He’d come up with a plan because Marco knew I was scared.”
With the support and education from countless doctors, nurses, family members, and respiratory therapists, Alora is thriving.
In fact, she recently took her first steps, in a similar sense Sarah continues to step into her role as a caregiver with verve and confidence. What started as a series of daunting unknowns has become daily life.
Now, Sarah encourages other parents to trust their instincts, as she has learned to trust her own. She said that speaking up is important, no one knows their child like their parent.
“I was really scared in the beginning,” Sarah said. “Now if you talk to me, I will advocate left and right for my daughter because I’ve been through it.”
Alora is on track to have her trach removed soon, opening her world to even more exploration. Sarah will be right there with her, keeping an eye out for any mischief.
Would you like to share your child's success story?
Success stories can include major triumphs, such as your child’s decannulation, or everyday happy moments. Sharing your little one’s smile can help another family find hope for their own baby’s future when times are tough.
Let us know if you would like your little one featured on our site or social media accounts to inspire other families like yours.