Genetics

When you have a “genetic difference” it gives a whole new meaning to the saying “bad genes.” Sometimes that phrase even stings a little after you actually find out you have what some would consider “bad genes.” Since we have received our diagnosis I have come in contact with families that embrace their “genes” and with families that deny them. Regardless of which side of the fence they choose to be on, it doesn’t change the genes that they have.

 

Our heritage and genes are what they are. In the end they can’t be changed, hidden, or denied. Most of the time you have no idea of the “differences” you have in your genes or chromosomes until something happens and there are reasons to question it.

I have a broken X and my husband has a difference on his 5^th chromosome. The difference between the two is that my broken X finally decided to show up. Charlie inherited his difference from someone just like I inherited my broken X from someone.

I love the statement “It can’t be me, I don’t have any symptoms!” Well, I didn’t either! I never have trouble making friends, being in social situations, and was generally a straight A student. Refusing to be tested so that “you” don’t have to “admit” that it could have come from you doesn’t change whether it did or not. It just means that you don’t know for sure!

Regardless of how we feel, whether it be guilty, sad, or torn. Why as parents, if we know it is a possibility, would we not be tested to see if we are carriers of something that could affect our children? Our opinions don’t change what is.

2 Corinthians 1:7 NKJV And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.

X

The Beauty of a Heartbreak

Some heartbreaks we will never understand this side of heaven and when we get there the reasoning behind them won't matter. I believe our heartbreaks are allowed to happen to teach us different lessons and levels of understanding.

A year into our Fragile X diagnosis, I'm learning to find the beauties in this heartbreak. For every path the diagnosis closed off two more have opened. This diagnosis has brought a new level of understanding and compassion to myself and my whole family.

We are a month into our school venture and Dalton is doing wonderful. He is having to sit in a booster seat during circle time because he doesn't quite understand that he has to "sit still even if he doesn't want to." But, he doesn't mind the chair and they give him opportunities to try to not sit in it. I can already tell his vocabulary and articulation has improved. Plus, he loves school and can't wait to get to go. 

We are working on an auction with WDIC to raise funds for his service dog. Hopefully by the end of summer we will have raised all the money. We also have a website for donations now www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/brittanymarshal

Psalm 147:3-5 NKJV 

He heals the brokenhearted

And binds up their wounds.

He counts the number of the stars;

He calls them all by name.

Great is our Lord, and mighty in power;

His understanding is infinite.

X