Interventions

Last year I attended a preemie conference in my area. I learned a lot of information about reaching developmental milestones and taking advantage of different therapy options. 

One thing that I enjoyed most of all was speaking to other preemie parents. We all share a special bond. It was comforting to know that I was not alone and there are other parents out there learning to take care of preemies just like me. 

I remember speaking to one mom in particular and our conversation really made me realize how well my girls were doing despite being so premature. I also felt unbelievably lucky to have the wonderful health care benefits that I receive from my job. 

The mom I spoke to told me all about her twins, who at the time were 20 months old. One of her twins has CP like Liz. He was 20 months old and was just learning to crawl. She told me that her insurance will only cover 26 visits a year. If you do the math, that is only 2 therapy visits a month. 

My heart hurts for this mom. She was clearly trying to do and learn anything she could to help her children, but insurance was causing a road block.  

Since Elizabeth is diagnosed with CP my insurance plan has NO limit on the amount of therapy sessions she can receive. When I think about how far my girls have come I know a lot of it is because of all the OT/PT therapy they receive.

The conversation with the mom made me realize how much this country needs healthcare reform. That 20 month old preemie should be able to receive all the therapy they need! But that's just me up on my soapbox. 

During the conference all the doctors and therapist stressed over and over the importance of early intervention.  I encourage new preemie moms out there to start therapy as soon as possible! I known it works. Abigail and Elizabeth are reaching milestones daily. They may still be a little behind, but I know it would be way worse without the interventions we have received so far.