ONE YEAR LATER:
        Helen Rose just celebrated her first birthday on 7 Oct, 1999. In her first year of life she has
        been doing wonderfully. Her kidneys are working just fine. She is now eating solid baby food.
        Her bowels are working normal too. Sometimes she needs a little bit of lactose in her diet, but
        otherwise she does fine. Helen is not crawling yet. She has all the ability, but she is just a little
        confused on how to make everything work together. She has physical therapy once a week
        and gets a good workout. Eva and I work with her everyday to help her learn faster. The sessions
        are wonderful. There is NO doubt, this little miracle baby will soon start doing amazing things
        like crawling and walking. Her legs are quite strong, as are her leg muscles. She has been able
        to stand several times next to the sofa. It is only a matter of time.
 

       A CELEBRITY:
       In January 1999, Helen was chosen as the March of Dimes Ambassador Baby. She has taken on
       this title with pride and joy. We have been able to share Helen's story with many people. The fun
       has just begun. Recently, we were invited to a March of Dimes fundraising event at the Cavalier
       Hotel. There was a lot of food and fun. There was even a celebration in honor of Helen's first
       birthday, and a special appreciation to "BIG SISTER" Patti Rae. But most of all, there were many
       gracious people all gathered together for one purpose....to be able to give all children the chance
       at a healthy life. In April 2000, we will be at the March of Dimes Walk America in Virginia Beach.
 
 

       FUTURE PROGNOSIS:
       Helen also has been diagnosed with Arnold Chiari  Malformation II. That is when the brain is setting
       farther back in her skull than what it should be. Thus, the brain stem grows into the spinal cavity
       causing herniated tissue to form on the brain stem and spinal cord. If not corrected, Helen will
       eventually be paralyzed and she will die. Fortunately, doctors have already been planning for her
       biggest surgical operation yet, and we will all be ready to jump this hurdle when time comes.
       Doctors say Helen WILL walk. Because we do not know how all her muscles are developing,
       she may need leg braces on the bottom of her legs for a year or two, and then the braces can be
       removed.......forever!
 

       A SPECIAL FRIEND:
       We would like to take this time and introduce you all to a real special friend. Her name is Mrs.
     Kathyrn Barrett. She is the medical and health reporter at WVEC-TV Channel 13 in Norfolk, VA.
     Mrs. Barrett has been with us since the operation was performed back in August 1998. She is a
     true friend who not only goes the extra mile for someone, but puts her heart and soul into her
     news stories. She is currently serving on the March of Dimes Board of directors. Thank you for
     being there Kathyrn! We are honored to know you, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.