Jacob’s Journal – My Journey Home

Published by Marla Murasko

This is my story!

• In July 2005 – Mommy & Daddy found out they were going to have me.

• While Mommy was 4 months pregnant she had a test called an ultrasound (which is like an xray) of me. They didn’t notice any issues with my growth, but they also took a blood test, which indicated there might be a problem with me.

My Journey

• So during the 2nd ultrasound the Perinatologist noticed there was a hole in my heart and referred my Mommy to a Pediatric Cardiologist (doctor who specializes in issues with baby’s hearts).

• Because of the diagnosis of my heart they told my Mommy & Daddy that the chances of me having Down Syndrome were very high.

My Journey (continued)

• Mommy had to have a lot of tests to make sure I was doing ok until I was born.

• This is me when I was 5 months old (in my Mommy’s belly)

My Journey (continued)

Ultrasound

March 22, 2006I was Born

7 lbs. 12 oz. 20 ½ in. @ 1:32pm

• I was having some trouble with my breathing and eating and finally after a 16 day stay in the NICU and several tests, I got transferred to another hospital for my first surgery.

• Before my surgery Mommy & Daddy had me christened.

My Journey (continued)

• After I was released from the hospital I started having a Physical Therapist come to my home to help me with my strength and coordination. She helped me sit up, roll over, and more.

• This is me with Darla my therapist:

My Journey (continued)

• I had my 2nd surgery in Sept 2006 when I was 6 months old. This was open heart surgery to fix my heart, here I am after surgery.

My Journey (continued)

I see special times with my family, friends and teachers.

I see lots of birthdays, vacations, school dances and sports.

But more importantly all I really wish for is that people give me a chance to experience all that life has to offer and maybe even join me in my journey!

My Dreams

Special

Although my needs may be special,I may not walk and run so fast

Although my needs may be special,I feel and hurt the same.

~Although my needs may be special,

I may talk a little funny.

Although my needs may be special,I love and want just like you.

~Although my needs may be special,

I may look a little different.

Although my needs may be special,I’m just as curious and scared.

~Although my needs may be special,I may learn and read a little slower.

Although my needs may be special,I am special, I’m a child of God like you!

By Marla Murasko

Published my book on Lulu.comhttp://www.lulu.com/content/862928

Marketing of my BookOn Amazon

Marketing of my BookOn Barnes & Noble

Marketing of my Book On My Websitehttp://specialmompreneurs.com/meet-marla/my-book

Press Release About My BookThrough PRWeb.com

Marketing of my BookAt a Book Signing

Michiana Down Syndrome Family Support and Advocacy Group

Picture to right: Notre Dame Baseball Players supporting our Buddy Walk

Be Kind and Respect Others

• Be kind to others even if they are different then you.• Respect each other and value the differences you bring.• A person with Down Syndrome has feelings too, they

shouldn’t be the pun of a joke.• Befriend a person with special needs, they will be one of

your best friends.• We are children of God and are all unique in our own

individual way.