On February 27, 1990, a cute tiny 10-day-old baby with a head full of coal-black hair entered into our lives. Over the last decade we have come to the realization that when we out stretched our arms to embrace the crystal-blue-eyed child who has taught us so much about the effects of prenatal alcohol drinking and more importantly the rewards of fighting and overcoming together the challenges.

The first days... She only slept 4 hours in a 24-hour period and this was not in very long settings, She was going through withdrawal from the alcohol she was exposed to in her bio-mom's womb. She was sick often with ear infections, viral infections, etc.

In the toddler years, she was an even more of a challenge - never slept, HYPER, defiant, many behavioral problems. Also she started her self-injurious behaviors - head banging, biting herself, and also picking her fingers until they bleed. At four years of age we had to start her on medication, and this was the first time she slept all night since her birth.

She was also diagnosed with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactive disorder) SIB (self injurious behavior), and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). She also later was diagnosed with MR (mental retardation) and SID (sensory integration disorder), and she also has MH (malignant hyperthermia).. She has been on numerous medications for sleep, hyperactivity, and behavior problems. Currently we have her on all natural supplements. We have home schooled her since 6th grade with GREAT success.

Within the last decade and more our crystal blue-eyed baby girl has taught us soooooo much about love, patience and importance of the both. But most of all the importance of education to others on FAS (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome). Without education you can't have support or understanding from others. This is a birth defect that is 100% preventable.

PLEASE, Help to educate others on the dangers of drinking while pregnant, also to support numerous others who suffer life long permanent brain damage due alcohol exposure in the womb!