Tuesday, August 26, 2014

One year since her JA diagnosis......

Often times we celebrate our anniversaries with a celebration, so I have decided that tonight we will celebrate Bella's 1 year JA anniversary. I want to celebrate her strengthen, courage, and determination she has shown this past year. Many adults complain of headaches and muscle aches like it is the end of the world, but kids with chronic illnesses deal with non-stop pain, exhaustion, and complications every day. Most days there is little complaint because they get "use" to their problems. These kids learn to be stronger than they ever imagined they could be. Does Bella have bad days, ABSOLUTELY..... Does Bella get angry, ABSOLUTELY...... Does Bella hurt everyday, ALL BUT 2 THIS PAST YEAR...... Does Bella feel different, ABSOLUTELY........ Does Bella wish she didn't have JA, ALMOST EVERYDAY....... But Bella wakes up everyday and tries her best, tries to be strong and not let this disease get her down, and she still has a heart of gold that has given so much to so many people. I applaud my little girl for being strong and not letting JA define her! We will keep fighting for a cure!! So today I will celebrate her 1 year anniversary of Bella being stronger than JA!!! I love you Bella Mia!!!!

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Another diagnosis for Bella

Last week we were at Hershey Hospital having tests done because of ongoing stomach issues and chest pains. Today we got the test results back and she has Gasteroparesis (delayed stomach emptying). The doctor feels that it was caused by a previous viral infection when she was younger. There is no cure but we do have a treatment plan. Bella will start on a medication she will take 4 times a day to help keep her intestines and stomach moving her food properly. We will also be doing a diet change and she will consume smaller meals throughout the day. The doctor did warn me that the medication for this condition is not very good but we will try avenue possible. Bella took the news well today and is looking forward to reducing her stomach and chest pains. I guess having JA wasn't enough for her, she needed a little more of a challenge...he he Hope you are all enjoying your summer!

Friday, August 8, 2014

New Experience= New Friends

Bella was asked to got a Nascar race last weekend. We aren't die hard Nascar fans, but we spent many Sundays watching the races with Pappy because he is a HUGE fan! So, we invited Pappy and took a trip up to Poconos Raceway to spend the day with Todd Peck, who also was diagnosed with JA as a child and still suffers as an adult. He raises awareness for the Arthritis Foundation through his racing(pretty cool, huh??)! We didn't know what to expect but I am here to tell you that it was one of the coolest days I have added to my book of memories! From the moment we arrived at the track we were treated so awesome! Todd's sweet mom escorted us to his trailer and gave us a tour. Bella got to meet his Pit crew and some of his family. They all were so nice to all of us, especially Bella! What we didn't realize how cool the rest of the day would go because we got be in the Pit during practice and the race. That was by far one of the coolest experiences ever! Bella got to help the Pit crew check tires and was up close for the Pit stops. They took the time to explain things to Bella ad interact with her throughout the day. After the race Bella got to ride in the driver seat of Todd's car and drive it into his trailer. By the end of the day Todd had her convinced that Nascar was for her. She already chose teal for the color and her number would be #26(the day she was diagnosed with JA). She has talked about the day so much since we got home. But one of the coolest experiences for me was to watch Pappy smile from ear to ear all day long......I think we helped him complete one of the items on his bucket list. He got to see his favorite (up close and personal) Dale Jr.. Seeing his excitement was priceless. I can not thank Todd Peck and his crew enough for a wonderful day. They made Bella feel so special and showed her that JA doesn't have to stop you from fulfilling your dreams. Todd is living his dreaming every day and spreading awareness for this Arthritis!