New Beginnings

It's been a couple of years now since Aubrey's diagnosis. Our lives continue on as they normally went; us kids went to school every day, and the adults went off to work, except for my cousin Ashley. Ashley had to quit her job in order to take care of Aubrey. Aubrey requires full attention from her mom, since she is now almost four years old and can't walk. She gets pretty heavy to carry, too. Her doctors want to look into getting her a wheelchair soon. I think this would make life a lot easier on Ashley and everyone who helps her out. Ashley gets lots of help from people in my family when it comes to taking care of Aubrey. Even though Aubrey can't speak for herself, it's obvious how much she loves to be around her family. I think because Aubrey has this disease, my family has grown an even stronger bond with her. The relationship I have with Aubrey is unlike any of the relationships I have with my other eleven cousins.

On a side note, Ashley and her husband Tom have talked for months now about having another baby. They feel that a new baby in the house could help lift their spirits and Aubrey's, too. While it definitely would make them happier it one way, it would be challenging in another. Aubrey cannot use the bathroom, walk, or talk. It is almost like Aubrey is a large baby. However, much to my surprise, my cousin Ashley became pregnant this month. My family was also concerned about the new baby becoming diagnosed with the same disease that Aubrey has. We learned that the chances of the new baby having the same disease was less than 1%. Of course, my family is so excited for Ashley and everyone has already offered to help her. As her pregnancy furthers, she will need even more help with Aubrey. Luckily for Ashley, she has a huge support system behind her.

Aubrey is so excited to be a big sister!