APRIL IS HYPOXIC ISCHEMIC ENCEPHALOPATHY AWARENESS MONTH
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| Listed May 2023 |
"Sam"
Introducing sweet "Sam"! Sam is 5 years old and living in Europe. He has a long list of diagnoses, including Down Syndrome, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, distal muscular dystrophy, hypothyroidism, and a congenital heart defect (PFO).
Sam's country is extremely private and gives out very limited public information. He may have no photo nor bio, but this is still a little boy who is desperately needing a mama!
Sam is specifically diagnosed with distal muscular dystrophy. This is a generic term for a group of rare progressive muscle disorders and atrophy and weakness of the distal muscles. An agency can give more info about Sam's condition and how it impacts them.
Sam also has a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. With this condition, essentially the thyroid is not as "active" as it should be, and this can impact every organ in different ways. The thyroid is a gland that controls the way the body uses energy. Hypothyroidism is very common in people with Down Syndrome. People with this condition tend to have short stature, and may also gain weight easier and quicker. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism are dry skin, sensitivity to cold or heat, thinning hair, and weak muscles. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to more complicated health problems. Thankfully, this condition is easily treatable through medication, and individuals can lead fairly normal lives.
It is unclear exactly how Sam's diagnosis of hypothyroidism impacts him, but an agency can give more info.
Sam also has a diagnosis of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy, or HIE. It is unclear how this diagnosis impacts Sam, but an agency can give more info.
*author's note* - My brother has Down Syndrome and Hypothyroidism. He has taken medication since he was an infant, and goes in for bloodwork every six months. He has a tendency to have very dry skin and hair thinning, two common symptoms of the condition, but is otherwise very healthy with medications!
Sam has a $2,000 grant with Reece's Rainbow! He also is eligible for a grant of up to $5,000 with RODS Heroes!
While "Sam"'s diagnoses seem intimidating, behind those ribbons is just a tiny boy needing a family of his own. I pray that someone takes a chance on sweet Sam. Could Sam be the little one missing from your family? Click the link to inquire!
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