Happy 1st Birthday Brody!

It is so hard to believe that it has already been a year since Brody was born. Our family has been through a lot over these past 12 months. We were surprised when Brody welcomed us 3 weeks early. 

We dealt with failing three newborn hearing screenings and ultimately having no response on the ABR test (the more in-depth hearing test that Audiology clinics perform). Brody received his hearing aids at three weeks thanks to loaner hearing aids and a pair of earmolds a mom had just turned in. After having some auditory stimulation from the hearing aids, the next ABR showed some responses! Brody's hearing was still in the profound loss area though, so we started looking into Cochlear Implants.

Around 5 months of age, we got the results back from his genetic testing. We found out he had Usher Syndrome Type 1. Suddenly we were put into unfamiliar territory; this was a whole different experience. I knew people who were deaf could lead wonderful, successful lives. I had experienced it first-hand.  But what about people who were deaf AND blind? Jordan went into research mode. We found a ton of resources and information that gave us hope that Brody would be successful in life. So what if he wouldn't be able to drive? He could live in a city with public transportation..right?! Through our experience with Ushers, we have met some amazing people. We have become advocates for our son and we will continue to take everything day-by-day.

Brody has come so far in such a short time! He is army crawling, getting into sit and stand on his own, babbling up a storm, cracking us up on a daily basis, and as of this week...cruising around furniture! The average for a baby with Ushers to walk is 20 months. We're going to accomplish it sooner (hopefully)! In two months he will have his Cochlear implants and be given the miracle of sound! We are beyond excited!

If I could chose a different life for Brody, I don't think I would. God made him the way he is for a reason. Maybe he will be the first linebacker with Ushers :) Or maybe he will be able to benefit from all the research being put into the disorder. Who knows what his life has in store for him? I know that it will be an awesome one though!

Happy Birthday baby boy!