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Six – Seven Years Old
0-3 Years Old | 3-4 Years Old | 5 Years Old | 6-7 Years Old
Emily is just beginning to become more aware of how her Spina Bifida is making her different from the other children at school. Doubly incontinent, Emily and her parents are set for a battle on whether or not she should have major surgery to cure her incontinence.
Zoe's Arthrogryposis has meant she now needs a wheelchair on occasions which has upset her mother. She's fearful that Zoe's problems, particularly with her left foot, may mean she will need a wheelchair full-time.
Shelbie continues to be in and out of hospital due to a rare chromosome disorder called Patrial Trisomy 9P. She has been close to death several times. Her mother Vicky is now pregnant again knowing that there is a 50:50 risk of her new baby having the same illness. Whatever happens though Vicky is determined to keep caring for Shelbie at home.
William continues to need constant attention with his Tuberous Sclerosis. His mother's parents have moved closer to support her. As a result of this extra help, William's parents now felt able to add to their family and Paula is pregnant. She is soon to go for genetic testing but is getting worried about possible new tumours on William's right leg.
Hamish has Achondroplasia, or dwarfism. The family has moved to Auckland in New Zealand and Hamish has made some very good and loyal friends. Like most children he is not looking forward to going back to school but being only 3ft tall compared to his 4ft friends doesn't seem to be a problem.
Nathan has a starring role in this year's Downs Syndrome Association's calendar. His parents are worried about his tongue constantly sticking out and are talking about the option of surgery to reduce its size, not least because it hinders his speech.
