New To Group

[Guest guest]

Hi everyone --

I am new to the group and would love to hear about your experiences. My

daughter Sadie will soon be wearing the helmet that Orthomerica makes. At about

3 months old we started to notice that she always slept on her back with her

head turned to the left side. At this age she started to suck her left thumb

(only her left thumb!) and preferred that left side. Our pediatrician seemed to

think nothing of it, but referred us to a specialist because I was so concerned.

After hearing about aggressive repositioning, we did the best we could for a few

months. Although she still slept in the same position, I kept her upright and

off of her back all day. We did notice an improvement, but it was not dramatic.

Here we are now with a 9 month old, just about to start the helmet. She has the

flat spot on the left side, as well as a bulging forehead and cheek. I feel so

guilty that we didn't act earlier -- I really wanted to avoid the helmet.

After the appointment with the orthotist this past week, I am so encouraged.

She thinks we still have a lot of time, and the helmet will only help Sadie's

little head. I would love to hear about life in the helmet. What will the

adjustment be like for Sadie? She is a content and playful little baby -- I

don't want that to change! And what is required in caring for the helmet? And

Sadie's head -- she has a lot of hair; should it be trimmed? I worry so much

about her being too hot since summer will soon be starting. My other concern is

that I have two older daughters, 4 and 6, and I am not sure how or if it will

affect them. I don't want them to worry about their little sister.

I am so sorry for rambling. This is the first time that I have written about

Sadie's plagiocephaly. I can already see that this group will be so helpful --

just writing this

e-mail has been therapeutic!

Pittsburgh, PA