So today we had a more intense therapy session than usual (a very long day). About 3 months ago, our OT Laura referred Lena to the Feeding Clinic at KCC (Kinsmen Children’s Centre) to evaluate her feeding and identify any problems. When Laura was working with Lena on some feeding in December she noticed that Lena held food in her mouth and swallowed inconsistently. She became worried that Lena may have problems swallowing and therefore eating. We have been unable to progress Lena past pureed foods so… we were referred to the Feeding Clinic.

I went with a completely open mind, I will do whatever it takes to help the girls. I was prepared to be informed of some sort of issue and be given instructions on how to help her at home. I was pleasantly surprised. The Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP) that was there said that Lena has a good bite pattern with good variance, she moves her tongue adequately and does not seem to have any oral aversions. All in all she has all the skill necessary to move forward, she just needs to be transitioned very slowly, unlike Miss Kassie. So good news. YEAH! Presently textures make her gag so we have to slowly transition her to accept new textures and thicker foods but the SLP does not think that there is any reason why she should not be able to eventually eat complete solids. She told us that she expects that as Lena’s gross motor skills continue to improve and she gains more strength and control in her head and neck her feeding will progress as well. YEAH! It’s just going to take time. Well, I have all the time in the world. Having preemies and children with special needs definitely teaches you to slow down and be patient (you have no choice really).

Kassie also had a good day too, she went with Lorraine (our early Childhood Intervention Therapist) and Shelley (PT) on her own to have her PT while Lena was  in the Feeding Clinic and did awesome. We weren’t quite sure how she would do all by herself (without me in the room) but she did great. Apparently she even talked a little. Then when they brought her back to me she realized I had been gone, when she saw me she started to cry and reach for me. So cute, yet heart breaking at the same time.