Gemma #11-26

Diagnosis: irritated intestines, gastritis, epilepsy
DOB: 2007

Gemma was raised by her birth mother until she was 2 years old. At that time, she was placed in an orphanage where she received very little medical intervention or care for her development. She’s now almost 5 years old and weighs just 18 pounds. She is delayed in all aspects of her development and spends a majority of her time laying in a crib. Due to problems with her intestines, she often gets bloated after eating and possibly experiences reflux as well.

Update June 2012:

Gemma can sit up unassisted and crawl. She shows interest in things that are happening around her. She responds to her name. She is on a special feeding program to increase her calorie intake so that she can gain weight. She plays in the play room at the orphanage and will pick up toys and hold them. She has formed a bond with the 1:1 caregiver that spends time with her each day.