Rare Disorders  
Linda Blevins, Division Director
The MAGIC • Touch Spring 1999
Vol. 10, Issue 1, p. 15 		  Reprinted with the permission of The MAGIC Foundation
1327 N. Harlem Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302-1376
1 (800) 3 MAGIC 3
(708) 383-0808 Fax: (708) 383-0899
E-Mail: mary@magicfoundation.org
ANTIBIOTICS & DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY
     A new nationwide survey of nearly 700 children is showing a disturbing link between children with developmental delays and the amount of antibiotics they have taken. The survey, which included youngsters between the ages of one year and 12 years found that those who have taken more than (20 cycles antibiotics) in their lifetime are over (50% more likely to suffer developmental delays). Children who have had three or fewer rounds of antibiotics were half as likely to become developmentally delayed.
     The incidence of children in the United Stales with developmental, behavioral and menial disorder is dramatically increasing. Conservative estimates show that in the last four years the number of children under age 18 with these disorders has grown from 4.8 million to 7.5 million. Published in the Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, Oct. 1997. Article on file at MAGIC.

FROM THE EDITOR
     The holidays were a very busy time for the Blevins family. My husband was presented with an employment opportunity in Kingman, Arizona. You can say he had an offer he couldn't refuse. December was filled with boxes, moving vans and really, really last minute Christmas shopping.
     The transition has been an experience. We came from a large four bedroom house into a 900 sq. foot apartment. You can say we are quite snug and it certainly fosters family togetherness.

JORDAN'S NEW SKILLS
     For Christmas Jordan received roller blades, along with many of the other children in the apartment complex. This six year old was determined he would roller skate. For several days he practiced and practiced. Until finally, he took off. Jordan is roller skating!!!! Seeing Jordan roller blading has been such a thrill for our family. Also, over Christmas we look a family ski trip to Brain Head in Utah. Brain Head has ski instructors for children with disabilities. While Jordan still has a long way to go before he becomes a competent skier, his instructor had him on skis coming down the "bunny slopes". His instructor told us that Jordan was by far the youngest Down syndrome child he had ever instructed. He said Jordan definitely has the balance, muscle tone and strength to become a skier.
     When you have a child who has struggled under physical and learning disabilities, you celebrate their accomplishments, you appreciate their successes, every achievement is a victory. Each day I thank God for growth hormone and the extraordinary impact it has had on Jordan's growth and development.

 
  Revised: April 12, 1999.