Athena and Nazera

Athena and her twin sister Nazera were born at 24 weeks gestation, due to being born prematurely. Both have severe physical and developmental delays. Both girls are given food and water through a gastrostomy button. Athena was on oxygen from birth through the end of December 2023, Athena has on occasion when ill required during sleep to be placed back on the oxygen for short periods of time. Athena had little developmental growth until after having her surgery to have her spine untethered on May 29, 2024. Since the surgery Athena can now sit unsupported, can crawl, and can pull herself up to a standing position. Athena and Nazera have supramalleolar orthotic braces worn inside her shoes to help support her feet and ankles when standing.  Athena loves to play with toys and her sister. She loves to snuggle and be given attention. Athena is a very happy toddler. The Early Development Network is currently working with the foster parent to get Athena and Nazera registered to begin attending school in the fall of 2025. Athena and Nazera work with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and feeding therapy each once a week. During occupational therapy they are currently working on eating therapy as Athena and Nazera have an aversion to having food in her mouth.   

Nazera was on oxygen from birth through the end of December 2023. Nazera had a tracheostomy inserted January 17, 2023, Nazera continues to be on a trach and ventilator to assist with her breathing. While she continues to have a ventilator along with her tracheostomy, she is required to have an alert trach/vent trained individual with her 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Nazera is allotted 30 hours of nursing care with a trained nurse. Nazera has been doing very well with sprints and is currently up to being off the trac/vent while she is awake. Nazera continues to require the trac/vent while sleeping. When Nazera is ill she cannot tolerate doingt he sprints and reverts back to needing the trac/vent continuously