Date Posted:12:11:01 07/11/07 Wed Author:Angela Subject: Re: gastroschesis
Wow. I am 31 years old and was born with gastroschisis in 1975. At that time the medical technology isn't what it is today. I had numerous surgeries as a baby and toddler and spent the first 12 to 16 months @ Rileys Childrens Hospital of Indinapolis, Indiana. Thank God for these incredible Charity and Donation funded hospitals. I would not be alive had it not been for this hospital and the awesome Dr's who work there. There were a few questions of interest to me and thought my story might help or make a few of you feel more at peace with the whole ordeal.
The question about having children. I am 31 and have had trouble getting pregnant BUT I have never been told it is due to being born with gastroschisis. Unfortunantly though I have NEVER in my 31 years had a family doctor or even fertility specialist know what gastroschisis is. They ask me. Ha Ha.
Now about the scar. I still have mine. I like to think of it as a battle wound. Battle won though!!!! As a young child I hated the looks and questions because yes kids can be sooooooooooooo mean. As a teenager I got over it a little more. Was brave enough to wear a bikini. Still got looks and even questions. It just didn't bother me as much. But again as an adult I learned how much worse adults can be than kids when it comes to the stares and smirks. I just shake it off and move on. I am ALIVE and my scars give me character. Be positive about it and remember it makes you stronger. I did look into having a belly button made but honestly my personal experience having soooooo much scar tissue it would have been a risky thing and really not worth it to me. BUT I know that everyone doesn't have same amount of scar tissue and everyone has their own situation.
I read the message about lint in the belly button. I laughed thought it was tooooooooo cute. I am 31 and am still fasinated by the belly button and even the lint.
My over all health is GREAT.
Anyone with any questions feel free to email me.
I hope this gives some of you some peace and assurance.
Angela a MIRACLE BABY :)
