[kizibits]

I knew when I adopted her that my daughter was an FAS child. She had the classic facial features, although they were not all that pronounced. I could also tell, through interaction with her, that she had a beautiful and sweet personality and I took the chance that it would survive.

So far, everything looks good... she is the most charming, sweetest natured child to be around. She does have some neurological issues related to the FAS--mostly sensory integration stuff (hypo, though, which I think is easier to deal with than hyper) and balance. She's incredibly smart--she turns three in July, but can already count to 10 and say her ABC's. She's also displaying really strong reasoning skills. The peds doctor, the neurologist, the psychologist all agree that at this point there is no reason to believe that she can't grow up to be a fully self-sufficient and successful woman.

I'm a lucky one, I know. But sometimes you just have to follow your heart even while your brain is urging caution. My decision was the right one for me and Livi, but wouldn't necessarily be right for anyone else. You have to know your own strengths and skills and know what you can handle. I teach study skills at the college level and have a pretty good understanding of learning disabilities and teaching and learning strategies that I can draw upon to help my daughter succeed.

Jeana