Braelyn is the definition of sweet and sassy!! Through treatment every nurse, doctor, or person we met always says how sweet and kind she is. She is the child at the doctors office who had her eye swollen shut, hair completely gone, and IVs hooked all over smiling at you waving, saying “Hi Hi Hi!”. Nothing can bring her happy spirit downs. She laughs at her daddy and silly noises. She loves meeting new friends! Some of her favorite things are Chocolate, the movie the Greatest Showman, and anything music related. She loves to dance and shake her body!
During Braelyn”s 9 month check up the pediatrician noticed that Braelyn was not tracking objects like a normal child her age would. When she would follow an object her eyes would shake. He was also concerned that she was hitting very few of her milestones. At the time she wasn’t even sitting up on her own. We were sent to an ophthalmologist to further get her vision checked which is where we found out that she had tumors in both eyes.
Braelyn has a genetic disorder called 13q deletion syndrome. On the 13th chromosome is the RB1 gene which prevents the eye from getting cancer. This genetic disorder is what caused Braelyns retinoblastoma. There are also many other important parts of her 13th chromosome missing causing her some cognitive and physical delays. She is 2 and a half but can only pull to stand and cruise along furniture. Braelyn is also partially blind in her left eye due to treatment. She also wears protective glasses.
Cancer has changed everything completely. We are so much stronger than we ever were. We love each other more, forgive more easily, always remind each other that the day could be worse and tomorrow will be better. Not only did it change ya emotional but it has caused us to pack up and move our family twice.
Braelyn amazes me because she is always happy. She has remained such a sweet and gentle soul. Not only does she battle cancer but she pushes through her struggles that her genetic disorder causes. She’s so special and I want to do something special for her.
Hope session by Tribe of the Beloved Photography and Films | Facebook | Instagram
Meg this is so special and what an honor to be a part of their life! Amazing work!
Braelyn has brought all of us so much joy! She is my hero because throughout her battle with cancer her resilience, playfulness, her overwhelming smile, & love for life has been stronger than most “normal” babies. She has been an inspiration for many & a testimony to our faith. Not only Braelyn but her parents too! They are an amazing family and I am blessed to be her Mimi????