Alabama Baby & Child Winter 2017

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baby alabama

& child

A CURE

for Clara The

Newborn ISSUE

PEDIATRIC HEALTH FINDER SAFE SLEEP UPDATE MOTHER’S MILK BANK BUNDLES OF HOPE DIAPER BANK

WINTER 2017

PRICE $2.95

www.albabymag.com


To my unborn child

I imagine you asleep. New to the world, everything fresh as rain. I imagine the sound of your voice, the color of your eyes. I imagine giving birth – the work you and I must do – and it scares and excites me. Like you, I am new to this. So, I will choose a place to deliver you that is prepared for everything I expect, and anything I don’t – a place with a reputation for excellence and knowledge, that sets the standard for how you and I should be cared for. I will choose well, for you are my world. u a b m e d i c i n e . o r g /w o m e n

WHY UAB : Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists and Neonatologists on site 24/7/365 First and only Baby-Friendly certified hospital in the Birmingham area Hotel-style room service with seasonal menu options by James Beard finalist, Chef Frank Stitt Nation’s largest all-private-room special care nursery

To Schedule an Appointment / C a l l 8 0 0. 8 2 2 . 8 8 1 6


baby alabama

& child

W I N T E R 2 017

contents

ALBabyMag.com

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Cecilia Pearson EDITOR AT LARGE LaTanya Bayles ART DIRECTOR Amy Heise Murphree MANAGING EDITOR Kim Hildenbrand CONTRIBUTORS Megan Ratliff PROJECT MANAGERS Holland Bayles Mexia Hall COMMUNITY MANAGER Victoria Cruz SPECIAL EVENTS TEAM Naomi Jones Nicole Jones

features 18 A Cure for Clara 22 Twice Blessed 27 Pediatric Health Directory 40 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort

departments 04 Moms Helping Moms: Bundles of Hope 06 Childcare Resources: Safe Sleep Update 10 Children’s Health: Dental Care 13 Mother’s Milk Bank of Alabama 16 Momma Love: Skin to Skin Newborn Care

in every issue 40 Family Event Picks 44 Heart Gallery

GRANDPARENTS TO PRECIOUS, GOOSE, AND CINNABON Cecil & Francine Lifestages Publishing Inc., Copyright 2004-2017. Lifestages Publishing Inc. publishes Alabama Baby & Child quarterly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Publisher assumes no liability for

Clara, 3 years old daughter of Ryan and Jenny Bragg Photography by Magen Davis

unsolicited art, photographs, manuscripts, or other material. Disclaimer: Statements and opinions expressed in Alabama Baby & Child are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lifestages Publishing Inc. Information provided should not be interpreted as medical instructions; editorial content is not intended as medical advice. Consult appropriate healthcare professionals prior to taking any action. Although great care has been taken in compiling and checking the information given in this publication to ensure accuracy, the authors, Lifestages Publishing Inc., and its servants or agents shall not be responsible or in any way liable for the continued currency of the information or for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this magazine, whether arising from negligence

contact us LifeStages Media t. (205) 440-2229 www.albabymag.com www.babypaloozatour.com www.familyphonepages.com www.birthdays4babies.com

or otherwise or for any consequences arising therefrom. The appearance of an ad in Alabama Baby & Child does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

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She’s an expert goalie. And she’s good at preventing asthma attacks too. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama helps Riley manage her pre-existing condition with free tools like the myRx Planner app. She and her family get health insurance that includes routine annual checkups. Because we want our plans to work as hard as Riley plays.

AlabamaBlue.com/Riley

Download the my Rx Planner app for iOS and Android.

Download the Alabama Blue app on the App Store or Google Play.

TM

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.


Moms Helping Moms

Bundles of

Hope BUNDLES OF HOPE DIAPER BANK

is a resource for families struggling with “diaper need”, the inability to provide a sufficient supply of diapers for their babies. These families may visit one of the twenty area Bundles of Hope distribution partners once a month where they will receive a week’s worth of disposable diapers per child. Diaper need affects 1 in 3 families nationwide but with the help of the community, Bundles of Hope is making a difference in the greater Birmingham area by distributing over 20,000 diapers to families in need each month. You can help by sponsoring a family in need for only $10 a month. To volunteer or contribute visit the website at www.bundlesdiaperbank.org, e-mail info@bundlesdiaperbank.org, or call 205-531-0613.

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Look forward to counting all those fingers and toes. Grandview Medical Center is one of the first hospitals to receive the Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care designation by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

Whether you’re going to be a first-time parent or you’re adding to your family, you have so much to look forward to with the birth of your child. At Grandview Medical Center, we’re here to help -- from finding an OB/GYN, to prenatal tours and classes, to the day you meet your new bundle of joy.

Inside our beautiful, new women’s center you’ll find a staff focused on the whole family. We encourage special mom and baby time and offer open visiting hours to allow siblings and other family members to be part of the family bonding experience. And should the need arise, our private NICU suites are designed for parents to stay right in the room with their little one.

3690 Grandview Parkway • Birmingham , AL 35243 • 205-971-1000 To find a physician, call 1-844-GMC-DOCS

www.GrandviewHealth.com

Blue Distinction Centers (BDC) met overall quality measures for patient safety and outcomes, developed with input from the medical community. A Local Blue Plan may require additional criteria for facilities located in its own service area; for details, contact your Local Blue Plan. Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+) also met cost measures that address consumers’need for affordable healthcare. Each facility’s cost of care is evaluated using data from its Local Blue Plan. Facilities in CA, ID, NY, PA, and WA may lie in two Local Blue Plans’areas, resulting in two evaluations for cost of care; and their own Local Blue Plans decide whether one or both cost of care evaluation(s) must meet BDC+ national criteria. National criteria for BDC and BDC+ are displayed on www.bcbs.com. Individual outcomes may vary. For details on a provider’s in-network status or your own policy’s coverage, contact your Local Blue Plan and ask your provider before making an appointment. Neither Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association nor any Blue Plans are responsible for non-covered charges or other losses or damages resulting from Blue Distinction or other provider finder information or care received from Blue Distinction or other providers.


Childcare Resources

Safe Sleep UPDATE V A L E R I E W YA T T; N A T I O N A L C H I L D C A R E A C C R E D I T A T I O N SPECIALIST FOR CHILDCARE RESOURCES

IN OCTOBER The American Academy of Pediatrics

announced an update to the prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is defined as the unexplained death, usually during sleep, of a seemingly healthy baby less than a year old. The AAP says infants should sleep in the same room as parents, close to the parents’ bed but on a separate surface designed for infants, for at least the first six months, ideally for the first year. This is just one of the recommendations announced to ensure the safe sleep of infants and to prevent SIDS. According to a report by Ali Gorman, R.N. for ABC News, “there has been a lot of progress toward SIDS prevention over the years. The rate for SIDS has dropped, but sadly, thousands of babies still die every year. So there are some new AAP updates and reminders for parents.” Key recommendations include: • Baby sleeps on his back, on a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet with tight-fitting sheet. • The crib should be empty: no soft bedding, including bumpers, blankets, pillows and soft toys. • Put baby to sleep on a separate surface in the parents’ bedroom. • Skin-to-skin care should start immediately after delivery, for at least an hour. • Consider offering a pacifier at naptime and bedtime. • Breastfeeding is recommended. (“By breastfeeding you reduce the risk of SIDS about 50%.” says

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Dr. Michael H. Goodstein, M.D., FAAP and a neonatologist task force member) After feeding, the baby should be moved to his or her separate sleeping surface. This AAP update covers information that helps parents extend their knowledge beyond the recommendation of placing a baby on his back to sleep. The focus is now on the total sleep environment. Michael H. Goodstein, M.D., FAAP reminds parents of the “ABCs” of Safe Sleep: A for the baby sleeping alone B for back-sleeping and C for sleeping in an uncluttered crib.

In an October 28, 2016 article by Mayo Clinic Staff, SIDS is defined as “…the unexplained death, usually during sleep, of a seemingly healthy baby less than a year old.”


AB Baby Sleep ALONE

C

BAC Slee K ping Bab y

Sleeping in UNCLUTTERED Crib

We make quality child care happen! Please visit us online at www.ccr-bhm.org, Facebook page or Twitter.

Childcare Resources is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) agency established in 1984 by United Way of Central Alabama. The agency serves Blount, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker counties. In 2012 the agency became the first and only child care resource and referral agency in the south to achieve National Quality Assurance for best practices from Child Care Aware of America.

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Childcare Resources

According to a report by Ali Gorman, R.N. for ABC News, “there has been a lot of progress toward SIDS prevention over the years. The rate for SIDS has dropped, but sadly, thousands of babies still die every year.

First

Step

TM

Alfa Life Insurance Corporation

Protect your children every step of the way. No matter how old children get, they never outgrow your love. With Alfa’s First Step Life™ Insurance, you can provide protection that grows with them. Our affordable coverage can be purchased for children through 14 years of age. Best of all, the permanent, interest sensitive policy can provide security for their steps in life. Ask a local agent today about Alfa’s First Step plan. Spending a few minutes planning now can afford you a lifetime of worry-free assurance.

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For the best agents in the business. Call Alfa.

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We’ve added to

our family

®

Trussville

Schedule Your Tour Today! 6590 Husky Parkway • Trussville, AL 35173 • 205.508.7044 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

WWW.CCSLION.COM | TRUSSVILLE@CCSLION.COM

7 Locations • Birmingham and Huntsville Areas


Partners in Kids’ Health

Pediatric

Dental Care

When should I schedule my child’s first trip to the dentist? Should my 3-year-old be flossing? How do I know if my child needs braces? Many parents have a tough time judging how much dental care their kids need. They know they want to prevent cavities, but they don’t always know the best way to do so. WHEN SHOULD DENTAL CARE START?

Proper dental care begins even before a baby’s first tooth appears. Remember that just because you

can’t see the teeth doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth, your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw. Running a damp washcloth over your baby’s gums following feedings can prevent buildup of damaging bacteria. Once your child has a few teeth showing, you can brush them with a soft child’s toothbrush or rub them with gauze at the end of the day. Parents and childcare providers should help

Proper dental care begins even before a baby’s first tooth appears. Remember that just because you can’t see the teeth doesn’t mean they aren’t there. 10

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young children set specific times for drinking each day because sucking on a bottle throughout the day can be equally damaging to young teeth. PEDIATRIC DENTISTS

Consider taking your child to a dentist who specializes in treating kids. Pediatric dentists are trained to handle the wide range of issues associated with kids’ dental health. They also know when to refer you to a different type of specialist such as an orthodontist to correct an overbite or an oral surgeon for jaw realignment. A pediatric dentist’s primary goals are prevention -heading off potential problems before they occur, and maintenance- using routine checkups and proper daily care to keep teeth and gums healthy. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the experts at Children’s recommend that a child’s first visit to the dentist take place by their first birthday. At this visit, the dentist will explain proper brushing and flossing techniques (you need to floss once your baby has two teeth that touch) and conduct a modified exam while your baby sits on your lap. Such visits can help in the early detection of potential problems, and help kids become accustomed to visiting the dentist so they’ll have less fear about going as they grow older. Brushing at least twice a day and routine flossing will help maintain a healthy mouth. Kids as young as age 2 or 3 can begin to use toothpaste when brushing, as long as they’re supervised. Kids should not ingest large amounts of toothpaste.

Even though their judgment isn’t always amazing,

their healthcare is. Healthcare as amazing as their potential CONGRATULATIONS TO

Dr. Dan Carter

2016 Best Pediatrician Winner (#1) Greenvale Pediatrics, Hoover To sign up for the Partners in Kids Health Newsletter and for more information on this or other health and safety topics, visit www.childrensal.org.

and Dr. Toren Anderson

2016 Best Pediatrician Winner (#2) Greenvale Pediatrics, Hoover 1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org

Partners in

ALBabyAndChild_COA_JudgmentAd_Dad3.indd 1

10/10/16 4:08 PM

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Infant Health

Mother’s

Milk Bank

HUMAN MILK BANKS exist all over

the country. The purpose? Mothers who have extra breastmilk can donate it knowing it will go to babies in need. The Mothers’ Milk Bank of Alabama is a nonprofit organization that collects, tests, processes, and distributes excess mothers’ milk to nourish babies who need it most. The most fragile and sickest babies in NICUs receive this milk, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. Since its inception, the Mothers’ Milk Bank of Alabama has grown to have more than 60 donors. It is housed within the Community Foodbank of Central Alabama Women currently breastfeeding infants under one year old can be screened at no charge to become milk donors. If you’re interested, call the Mothers’ Milk Bank of North Texas toll free at 1.866.810.0071 or visit www. mmbal.org. Once once screened you can donate at one of the 10 depot drop-off locations across the state.

Depot Locations BIRMINGHAM

FLORENCE

Mothers’ Milk Bank of Alabama

Connections Breastfeeding:

107 Walter Davis Dr.

The Baby’s Room

Birmingham, AL 35209

801 E. Tennessee St.

Monogram Maternity 4th floor, St. Vincent’s Women and Children’s Center 810 St. Vincent’s Dr. Birmingham, AL 35205

ANNISTON RMC Lactation Services 400 E 10th St. Anniston, AL 36207

AUBURN Cornerstone Family Chiropractic 323 Airport Rd, Suite E Auburn AL 36830

MOBILE Infirmary Health Women’s Health Alliance of Mobile 1720 Springhill Ave, Suite 400 Mobile, AL 36604

Florence, AL 35630

MADISON Connections Breastfeeding: Journey Therapeutic Massage 1874 Slaughter Road, Suite M Madison, AL 35758

HUNTSVILLE Connections Breastfeeding: A Nurturing Moment 7540 Memorial Pkwy SW, Suite B Huntsville, AL 35802

MONROEVILLE Mothers’ Milk Depot of Monroe County 2016 S. Alabama Ave, Monroeville AL 36460

DOTHAN Southeast Alabama Medical Center’s depot 1108 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, AL 36301

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Infant Health The Mothers’ Milk Bank of Alabama is a nonprofit organization that collects, tests, processes, and distributes excess mothers’ milk to nourish babies who need it most.

Diaper Bank

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Skin to Skin CARE

t

BY M E G H A N R AT L I F F

THE FIRST FEW MOMENTS AFTER BIRTH IS TRULY MAGICAL. How and where an infant spends the first

few hours of his life can impact him short as well as long-term. Research shows that the best place for a newborn immediately after birth and for prolonged periods of time is in chest to chest contact with the mother. Skin to skin and kangaroo are terms often used interchangeably. Kangaroo Mother Care is a form of care for preemies that includes skin to skin in the kangaroo position; mother and baby are bare chest to bare chest with only a blanket covering the baby’s back. For the sake of this article anytime I refer to the skin to skin I mean unclothed chest to chest contact between mother and infant. Dr. Nils Bergman a perinatal neuroscience specialist from South Africa recently spoke at Grandview Medical Center in Birmingham, AL on the Neuroscience of Skin to Skin Contact and Kanga-

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roo Mother Care. It is called this because Marsupials are born immature and crawl from the birth canal to a skin pouch on their mother. Here they are kept warm and feed until they fully develop. Dr. Bergman’s research has shown that this skin to skin contact between mother and baby is where the brain, DNA and social and emotional intelligence get the best start. BENEFITS OF SKIN TO SKIN CARE FOR THE INFANT INCLUDE:

1. Temperature regulation 2. Stabilized breathing pattern and oxygen intake 3. Increases breastfeeding success 4. Stabilized glucose levels 5. Stress Reduction 6. Increased brain development-social and emotional intelligence


Dr. Bergman’s research has shown that this skin to skin contact between mother and baby is where the brain, DNA and social and emotional intelligence get the best start. SKIN TO SKIN CONTACT IS SYMBIOTIC; IT BENEFITS BOTH BABY AND MOTHER. RESEARCH HAS SHOWN THAT BENEFITS TO INCLUDE:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Increased milk production and breastfeeding success Faster delivery of the placenta Increased bonding Reduced risk of postpartum depression Reduced stress levels Better sleep cycle for mother and baby

One way to ensure that your newborn is afforded the best start with immediate skin to skin contact is to discuss it with your doctor and write a birth plan that includes after birth care guidelines.

MEGHAN RATLIFF is a mother of three beautiful children and a postpartum doula. Follow her at www.mommalovegham.com and on social media at @mommalovebham

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A CURE for

Clara

t

People everywhere have rallied to help a little girl facing a big health challenge. Can you help too?

P H OTO G R A P H Y BY M AG E N DAV I S

TWO-AND-A-HALF-YEAR-OLD CLARA BRAGG is

a bright and energetic toddler, feisty and friendly, a shining star who strives to keep up with her big brother and wins over everyone she meets. But she’s running out of time — and unless something changes soon, her precious life will be cut short. When Clara was born, nothing seemed amiss. It wasn’t until shortly after her first birthday that she began to plateau developmentally. Her loving parents watched with concern as she lost the few words she spoke and struggled to walk independently. A year later they got their devastating answer: Clara has a terminal neurological condition called Late Infantile GM1 Gangliosidosis. The prognosis is grim. The disease will slowly rob her of her abilities and ultimately cause seizures, blindness, deafness, and the inability to eat and move. If you’ve never heard of this disease, you’re not alone. Only two children in Alabama have been

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diagnosed with GM1. Sadly, the other child (Porter Heatherly, age 4) recently passed away. Clara’s family, friends, and loved ones are on a mission. Though no treatment or cure for GMI exists currently, there’s major reason for hope: The world’s two leading GMI researchers are on the brink of a potential cure right at Auburn University. “Animal trials have proven that this cure is effective,” says Clara’s mother, Jenny Bragg. “It is just a matter of getting it to human trial so children like Clara can be treated and their lives can be saved.” The roadblock? Money. Though families affected by this disease and the Cure GM1 Foundation have raised significant funds, they’re short the amount necessary to fund a human gene therapy trial in 2017. The family is asking people to donate to the Cure

GM1 Foundation. If the trial is funded, their beloved daughter may go on to live a long and happy life. The alternative is unthinkable: Clara’s loved ones will watch her slowly fade away from this cruel disease. Her parents express their gratitude to everyone who helps them get closer to their goal of getting Clara into the potentially lifesaving trial. “Thank you all for your continued support,” the family wrote recently on A Cure for Clara Facebook page. “We are so hopeful we can save Clara’s life.” HOW YOU CAN HELP SAVE CLARA

This human gene trial has so many expenses: vaccine manufacturing, FDA-required vaccine toxicity testing, and a full-time nurse to help manage the trial.

“If proven successful in treating GM1, this gene therapy will then be applied to helping cure many other childhood genetic diseases. This truly is medical history in the making.” —JENNY BRAGG, CLARA’S MOTHER

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BELOW: The

Bragg and Heatherly families for ‘Porter’s 4th Birthday.’ Porter Heatherly (age 4) was the only child in Alabama, other than Clara, diagnosed with GM1. He had a more rapidly progressive version, infantile, than Clara who has late infantile. The photo was taken at his annual birthday party fundraiser in October. Porter passed a few weeks after. More may be found on his story on Facebook at Prayers for Porter.

Clara’s family is asking people to donate “whatever their heart and means allow” to the Cure GM1 Foundation to fund these expenses and potentially help save the lives of Clara and other children with GM1. All donations go straight to the foundation and are 100 percent tax deductible. They aren’t used by the family for Clara’s care. • Visit ACureForClara.com to donate online. The payment is secure, and it only takes a moment. • You can also learn more about GM1 or donate at the Cure GM1 Foundation website at CureGM1.org. • To get updates, visit the Cure for Clara Facebook page at Facebook.com/ACureForClara. LEARN MORE ABOUT GM1

The name sounds like a tongue twister: GM1 Gangliosidosis. This rare disease is caused by the body’s producing an insufficient amount of the enzyme beta-galactosidase. The result is cell death — in particular, spinal cells and neurons — and what happens next is devastating: Afflicted children lose

the ability to do virtually any bodily function they need to live: speak, swallow, and even move. Some become blind or deaf. The heartbreak GM1 leaves in its wake is truly staggering. There are three classifications of GM1, and they range in severity: • Type 1 (Infantile) is the most common and the most severe. • Type 2 (Late Infantile and Juvenile) is less severe than Infantile. (Clara’s GM1 is Late Infantile.) • Type 3 (Late or Adult Onset) is rarer and thought to occur mostly in Japan You can learn more about the disease by visiting the Cure GM1 Foundation website at CureGM1.org

AUBURN UNIVERSITY GENE THERAPY RESEARCH Dr. Doug Martin is one of the leading GM1 researchers in the world. He and Dr. Doug Martin, pictured with Clara, is one of 1 the leading GM in ers research the world.

his team at the Scott-Ritchey Research Center at Auburn University have been researching gene therapy techniques in collaboration with UMass, Lysogene and the Tay-Sachs Gene Therapy Consortium. They have successfully extended the lives of cats in their studies, and their goal is to apply that knowledge to human trials. Learn more about the Scott-Ritchey Research Center online at www.vetmed.auburn.edu/research/scott-ritchey-research-center.

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TWICE

Blessed BY K I M H I L D E N B R A N D

A pair of very special boys beat the odds after experiencing twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome

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i

IN 2008, EBRU AND CASEY MIDDLEBROOKS of Hoover were

overjoyed to learn they were expecting. However, there was a surprise in store: During their third ultrasound, the couple learned Ebru was pregnant with twins. “It was quite shocking,” Ebru recalls. She knew instinctively that being pregnant with multiples could mean more complications, so her happiness was also mingled with worry. One somewhat unusual aspect of Ebru’s pregnancy was that her twins shared a single placenta. Typically one placenta supports a single fetus—and when twins share, their umbilical cords implant anywhere, so it’s possible one twin receives less blood flow and nutrition. None of the medical professionals treating her had warned her of any complications of babies sharing a placenta, presumably to ensure she didn’t worry needlessly during her pregnancy. Additionally, as Ebru notes, because medical personnel deal with certain situations all the time, they may forget that some patients are going through experiences for the first time and don’t know what to look for. For Ebru, one key takeaway from her experience is that it’s best if medical personnel are up front and informative about potential

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complications and symptoms to watch for. “I personally believe that knowledge is power,” she says. During her pregnancy, Ebru taught preschool— and thankfully, a student’s mother warned her to watch for complications. Thanks to her, Ebru was able to research possible issues that can arise due to multiples sharing a placenta, including twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). In the beginning, Ebru’s pregnancy progressed typically, with no sign of problems. But when she was 18 weeks along, she began experiencing contractions. Since it was her first pregnancy, she wasn’t completely sure she was having true contractions. However, because of her research on TTTS, she was quite worried that something was wrong. The next morning, she saw her OBGYN and underwent an ultrasound. The scan revealed that there was an uneven amount of amniotic fluid between the two sacs—a sign of TTTS. “I was devastated,” Ebru recalls. “I felt like the only person this was happening to in the whole wide world.” Her doctor referred her to a high-risk pregnancy specialist at University of Alabama at Birmingham, during

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which her gut feeling was confirmed: It was twin-totwin transfusion syndrome. This condition means that essentially, one twin “donates” blood to the other—meaning the donor twin has decreased blood volume while the recipient is overloaded. This blood imbalance puts both the donor twin and the recipient twin at risk for health issues and even death. (See the sidebar for more information about twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.) After her initial diagnosis, life changed. Ebru was in constant pain and continued having contractions due to the increased fluid in one of the amniotic sacs. She also had to undergo treatment for TTTS. The most effective treatment option is a laser surgery called fetoscopic laser photocoagulation. During the procedure, the doctor makes a small incision in the mother’s abdomen in order to sever all the abnormal blood vessel connections, permanently disconnecting them. Only certain specialists around the country perform this surgery. UAB referred Ebru to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital’s Fetal Center. At 21 weeks along, she underwent the surgery. Ebru and Casey


stayed in Cincinnati for two weeks after the procedure. To the couple’s dismay, after the surgery, doctors indicated that they didn’t expect the donor twin to survive the pregnancy. Amazingly, Ebru says, “he kept holding on and kept growing in utero right alongside his brother.” After returning to Birmingham, Ebru spent the remaining 12 weeks of the pregnancy on bed rest. At 35 weeks, she gave birth to her boys: Aiden and Grady. When they were born, both were over 4 pounds. “I felt so much better after I gave my birth to my boys, the roller-coaster ride of my pregnancy was over,” she says. “I was just ready to take my babies home with me and take care of them!” However, the twins had to stay in the NICU for a month. Ebru had a tough time leaving them at the hospital after she was discharged. Bringing them home was a joyful occasion. Grady, the donor twin, has cerebral palsy due to TTTS. Ebru isn’t a fan of the term “special needs.” “Having twins gave me a great perspective about how every child has some sort of a special need,” she says. “But I do have one child that has extra needs, that requires extra time, effort and patience.” Today Aiden and Grady are 8 years old. And their difficult experience before birth hasn’t hampered them in the slightest. “My boys are the best,” Ebru says. “Aiden and Grady are the most loving and sweet and kind little boys ever.” Even their teachers and friends remark on what a joy the boys are to be around. “That makes me feel wonderful,” Ebru says. As every parent knows, raising children can be a daunting task. But Aiden and Grady bring unconditional love and unmeasurable joy to their parents. The boys make a wonderful pair: Kind and caring Aiden loves his brother and has endless patience and understanding for him. And sweet, happy Grady never complains about anything, works hard to overcome all his challenges, and eagerly tries new things. He also adores his brother and happily tries to keep up with him. Another factor in their happy family: “It helps that my husband and I are a great team,” Ebru says. For the Middlebrooks family, the future looks very bright. “I have very high hopes for my boys,” Ebru says. “They already overcome so much and survived. They are such a joy to be around and I know that they both are here for a reason.”

“Pregnancy is supposed to be time of joy and excitement. So when I was diagnosed with TTTS, I felt so alone, like I was the only one on earth this was happening to! Expectant parents need to know that complications during pregnancies arise all the time and that there is help. There are many experienced and wonderful Fetal Care centers around the country and organizations like Fetal Hope Foundation are willing to lend a hand in any way they can to those who are having a difficult pregnancy.” ALBabyMag.com 25


WHAT IS TWIN-TO-TWIN TRANSFUSION SYNDROME?

In a typical pregnancy, each baby has his or her own placenta. However, sometimes during a multiple pregnancy, babies will share a single placenta. In 10 to 15 percent of these cases, an imbalance in circulation can develop, and one twin transfers blood to the other. This is called twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Due to this condition, the donor twin has decreased blood volume, slow growth, and decreased urination. The minimal urine output means this twin may have low (or even no) amniotic fluid. The recipient twin, on the other hand, receives too much blood. This causes strain on the heart (even the risk of heart failure) and increased urination, which leads to too much amniotic fluid. RESOURCES

HERE ARE SOME FACTS ABOUT TTTS TO

Twin to Twin Transfusion

KEEP IN MIND:

Syndrome Foundation

• TTTS is based on random events, such as how the placenta is shared by the twins. It’s not genetic or hereditary, and it’s not caused by anything an expectant mother does or doesn’t do. • TTTS can occur at any time during pregnancy. • If TTTS goes untreated, the twins will die in 70 to 80 percent of cases. Treatment is key! • Survivors of TTTS may have injuries to the kidney, heart, and/or brain.

1-800-815-9211 www.tttsfoundation.org

Fetal Hope Foundation 1-877-789-4673 www.fetalhealthfoundation.org

Parenting Children With Different Needs • All children have different needs, personalities, strengths,

• Let each child pursue their particular interests and strengths.

and weaknesses. Juggling different types of needs can

One might enjoy sports while another prefers making music.

be a challenge, but one that comes with endless rewards. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Sibling conflict, rivalry, and jealousy are very common. Listen to your children, and allow them to share their feelings

• As a parent, it’s important to give each child special

attention and one-on-one time. A quick meal out, a trip to the playground, or snuggling on the couch for storytime can be a great way to connect.

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without fear of being judged.


pediatric health

c

Children’s

of Alabama

CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA has provided

specialized medical care for ill and injured children across the state and throughout the southeastern U.S. since 1911. For the past four years, Children’s has been ranked among the best children’s hospital programs in the nation by US News & World Report. Last year, patients made more than 670,000 outpatient and nearly 14,000 inpatient visits to Children’s from every county in Alabama and from 41 other states and four foreign countries. With more than 2 million square feet, it is the third largest pediatric medical facility in the U.S. Children’s offers inpatient and outpatient services across its Russell Campus on Birmingham’s historic Southside with additional outpatient services provided at Children’s South and Children’s on 3rd. Primary care is provided at more than a dozen medical offices in communities across central Alabama. Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, research and residency programs. CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA 600 7th Avenue S. Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 638 - 9100 www.childrensal.org ALBabyMag.com 27


BIRMIINGHAM

PEDIATRIC HEALTH DIRECTORY Birmingham PEDIATRICIANS

GREENVALE PEDIATRICS

MAGNOLIA PEDIATRICS

101 Eagle Ridge Drive

1621 11th Avenue S

ACTON ROAD PEDIATRICS

Birmingham, AL 35424

Birmingham, AL 35205

2409 Acton Rd.

205-995-1004

205-930-9500

Vestavia Hills, AL 35243

greenvale.chsys.org

205-978-8245 actonrdpeds.com

MIDTOWN PEDIATRICS GREENVALE PEDIATRICS

1400 4th Ave S.

5295 Preserve Pkwy #100

Birmingham, AL 35233

ALABAMA PEDIATRICS

Birmingham, AL 35244

205-329-7200

2815 Independence Drive

205-987-4444

chsys.org

Birmingham, AL 35209

greenvale.chsys.org

205-879-7888 alaped.com

METRO PEDIATRICS GROWING UP PEDIATRICS

401 Valley Ave.

200 Riverhill Business Park #250

Birmingham, AL 35209

ALABASTER PEDIATRICS

Birmingham, AL 35242

205-941-1414

1004 1st Street N, Suite #370

205-995-0899

metropediatricspc.com

Alabaster, AL 35007

growinguppediatrics.net

205-663-5547 alabasterpediatrics.com

OVER THE MOUNTAIN PEDIATRICS JCDPH – CENTRAL HEALTH CENTER

3300 Cahaba Rd, Suite 102

1400 6th Avenue South

Birmingham, AL 35223

BIRMINGHAM PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES

Birmingham, AL. 35233

205-870-7292

806 St Vincent’s Dr.

205-933-9110

otm.chsys.org

205-933-2750

JCDPH – EASTERN HEALTH CENTER

PEDIATRICS EAST

birminghampeds.com

601 West Boulevard, Roebuck

6229 Deerfoot Parkway

Birmingham, AL. 35206

Pinson, AL 35126

205-591-5180

205-681-5377

Birmingham, AL 35205

CHILDREN’S MEDICAL GROUP, P.C. 2316 7th Avenue S, Suite #100

pedseast.childrensal.org

Birmingham, AL 35233

JCDPH – MORRIS HEALTH CENTER

205-251-4141

590 Morris Majestic Road

PEDIATRICS EAST

childrensmedicalgroupbham.com

Morris, AL. 35116

520 Simmons Drive

205-933-4242

Trussville, AL 35173

CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA

205-836-8691

1600 7th Ave S.

JCDPH – WEST END HEALTH CENTER

Birmingham, AL 35233

631 Bessemer Super Highway

205-638-9100

Midfield, AL 35228

PEDIATRICS WEST

chsys.org

205-788-3321

1090 9th Avenue SW, Suite 100

pedseast.childrensal.org

Bessemer, AL 35022 CHILDREN’S SOUTH

JCDPH – WESTERN HEALTH CENTER

205-481-1886

1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road

1700 Avenue E, Ensley

pedswest.childrensal.org

Birmingham, AL 35243

Birmingham, AL. 35218

205-638-4800

205-788-3321

chsys.org

805 St Vincent’s Dr., #430 DR. JOSEPH ROGERS JR.

Birmingham, AL 35205

DR. ROBERT SMITH

3940 Montclair Road

205-939-1250

1700 5th Ave N.

Birmingham, AL 35213

redmontpeds.com

Birmingham, AL 35203

205-871-4123

205-251-0401

SMALL STEPS PEDIATRICS MAYFAIR MEDICAL GROUP

52 Medical Park Dr., E #201

GREENVALE PEDIATRICS

3401 Independence Dr.

Birmingham, AL 35235

1022 First Street North, Suite 102

Birmingham, AL 35209

205-868-3486

Alabaster, AL 35007

205-870-1273

smallstepspediatrics.com

205-663-9550

mayfair.childrensal.org

greenvale.chsys.org

28

REDMONT PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES

ALBabyMag.com


CHILDREN’S DENTAL CENTER

MICHAEL S. ANGLIN, D.D.S., P.C.

5000 Southlake Park, Suite #250

1801 14th Ave S

3825 Lorna Rd #206

Birmingham, AL 35244

Birmingham, AL 35205

Birmingham, AL 35244

205-982-2500

205-939-4912

205-988-9800

slpeds.net

cdcbkidsdentist.com

birminghamkidsdentist.com

TOTS ‘N’ TEENS PEDIATRICS

DR. DOWNS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

MICHAEL A. KELLER, D.D.S., P.C.,

3729 Mary Taylor Rd.

1957 Hoover Ct

2045 Medical Center Drive, Suite 7

Birmingham, AL 35235

Birmingham, AL 35226

Birmingham, AL 35209

205-856-4440

205-823-7387

205-870-7110

totsnteenspediatrics.com

hoovermetropediatricdentistry.com

mkellerdds.com

VESTAVIA PEDIATRICS

HOOVER FAMILY DENTISTRY

NARROWS FAMILY DENTISTRY

1936 Old Orchard Road

425 Emery Drive

194 Narrows Drive, Suite 105

Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

Hoover, AL 35244

Birmingham, AL 35242

205-978-3200

205-989-8480

205-981-2994

childrensal.org/vestavia-pediatrics

hooverfamilydentistry.com

narrowsfamilydentistry.com

DENTISTS

JOBY HURST PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

NORTH JEFFERSON PEDIATRIC

2100 Devereux Cir #100

DENTISTRY

ALABAMA PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Birmingham, AL 35243

132 Payne Road

3500 Independence Dr.

205-969-7454

Gardendale, AL 35071

Homewood, AL 35209

jobyhurstdmdpediatric.com

205-631-2240

205-802-7277 alabamapediatricdentistry.com

amyparvindmd.com JUST KIDS DENTAL 2320 7th Ave South.

OAK MOUNTAIN PEDIATRIC

ALABASTER PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Birmingham, AL 35233

DENTISTRY

219 1st Street North

205-251-1010

6930 Cahaba Valley Road #200

Alabaster, AL 35007

www.justkidsal.com

Birmingham, AL 35242

205-664-2130 alabastersmiles.com

BIRMINGHAM

SOUTHLAKE PEDIATRICS

205-980-1338 LOVELL PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

ompediatricdentistry.com

1900 28th Avenue S, Suite #109 ANGELICA ROHNER

Homewood, AL 35209

PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT DENTISTRY

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

205-957-6611

1015 Brocks Gap Pkwy

2045 Brookwood Medical Center Dr.

lovellpediatricdentistry.com

Hoover, AL 35244

Suite 21, Birmingham, AL 35209

205-982-0112

205-870-0892

MCCALLA FAMILY DENTISTRY

drrohner.com

5751 Pocahontas Rd. Ste. A.

alpediatricdentistry.com

Bessemer, AL 35022

PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT DENTISTRY

BIRMINGHAM PEDIATRIC DENTAL

205-477-4242

721 Montclair Rd

1613 11th Ave S

mccalladental.com

Birmingham, AL 35213

Birmingham, AL 35205

205-879-6150

205-933-1363

MCCALLA ORTHODONTICS &

bpdca.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

alpediatricdentistry.com

4814 Bell Hill Road

PEDIATRIC SMILES

CAHABA HEIGHTS PEDIATRIC DENTIST

Bessemer, AL 35022

4823 Promenade Parkway, Suite 101

4213 Dolly Ridge Road

205-477-8004

Bessemer, AL 35022

Vestavia Hills, AL 35243

mccallasmiles.com

205-230-9000

205-490-6850 cahabaheightspediatricdentistry.com

psmilesal.com MEDPLEX PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 3000 Southlake Park #200

PEDIATRICS WEST

CAHABA VALLEY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Birmingham, AL 35244

4730 Bell Hill Road

141 Narrows Dr.

205-453-0314

Bessemer, AL 35022

Birmingham, AL 35242

drbakerchambliss.com

205-426-3010

205-408-8889

childrensal.org/pediatrics-west

cvpd.com

ALBabyMag.com 29


Birmingham/Huntsville/Madison SARRELL DENTAL CENTER – BESSEMER 2700 5th Avenue N Bessemer, AL 35020 205-425-1327 sarrelldental.org

BIRMINGHAM / HUNTSVILLE / MADISON

SARRELL DENTAL CENTER - PINSON 6662 Alabama 75 #114 Pinson, AL 35126

VITAL SMILES

DENTISTS

2302 Center Point Pkwy.

ALABAMA PEDIATRIC DENTAL

Birmingham, AL 35215

ASSOCIATES

205-853-9170

4001 Balmoral Drive SW

vitalsmiles.com

Huntsville, AL 35801 256-539-7447

UAB DENTAL SCHOOL 1600 7th Ave S.

CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY

Birmingham, AL 35233

OF HUNTSVILLE

205-934-4546

114 Bob Wallace Ave. SW Huntsville, AL 35801

205-693-0100 sarrelldental.org

PEDIATRICIANS

www.dentalassociatesna.com

SHELBY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

FIELD PEDIATRICS

2490 Pelham Parkway

1106 Gleneagles Drive SW

DENTAL ASSOCIATIES OF NORTH

Pelham, AL 35124

Huntsville, AL 35801

ALABAMA

205-419-7444

256-881-9355

1815 Somerville Road SE

shelbypediatricdentistry.com

www.field-docs.com

Decatur, AL 35601

STEINMETZ PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

HAPPI FAMILY CARE

521 Montgomery Hwy S #125

813 Franklin St SE

Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

Huntsville, AL 35801

DR. BRIAN BEITEL

205-822-4284

256-519-3650

580 Airport Road Southwest

ident.ws

happiinc.com

Huntsville, AL 35802

TOTS ‘N’ TEENS PEDIATRICS

HUNTSVILLE PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES

3729 Mary Taylor Road

1963 Memorial Parkway #5

Birmingham, AL 35235

Huntsville, AL 35801

DR. BRIAN BEITEL

www.totsnteenspediatrics.com

256-265-2464

7771 Highway 72 west

www.huntsvillepediatrics.com

Suite B

256-513-7592 www.dentalassociatesna.com

256-883-5050 www.drbeitel.com

Madison, AL 35758

TRUSSVILLE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 123 N. Chalkville Rd.

OVER THE RAINBOW PEDIATRICS

256-883-5050

Trussville, AL 35173

2006 Franklin Street, Suite 107

www.drbeitel.com

205-655-1000

Huntsville, AL 35801

trussvillepediatricdentistry.com

256-539-5339

MADISON PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

www.otrpediatrics.com

7559 Highway 72 W, Suite 108 Madison, AL 35758

VANN & PARKER PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES OF MADISON

256-890-4005

NEW 1808 Gadsden Highway

21 Hughes Road, #2

www.MadisonKidsTeeth.com

Suite #134

Madison, AL 35758

Birmingham, AL 35235

256-772-2037

ROCKET CITY KIDS PEDIATRIC

205-856-0148

www.pediatricassociatesofmadison.com

DENTISTRY 1105 Gleneagles Drive

drvann.com TENDER CARE PEDIATRICS

Huntsville, AL 35801

VESTAVIA HILLS PEDIATRIC

4810 Whitesport Circle, SW, Suite 100

256-882-2466

DENTISTRY

Huntsville, AL 35801

www.rocketcitykids.com

2401 Dolly Ridge Rd.

256-429-4500

Vestavia Hills, AL 35243

www.tendercareatcrestwood.com

VITAL SMILES 3700-F Blue spring Road

205-983-8980 TWICKENHAM PEDIATRICS, PC

Huntsville, AL 35810

115 Manning Dr SW, Suite A-101

256-852-9994

VITAL SMILES

Huntsville, AL 35801

www.vitalsmiles.com

111 B.Y. Williams Sr. Drive

256-533-1030

Midfield, AL 35228

www.twickenhampediatrics.com

tengallongrin.com

205-923-3172 vitalsmiles.com/midfield.html

30

888-479-3296

ALBabyMag.com


Mobile

GULF COAST PEDIATRICS

PEDIATRICIANS CHILDREN’S MEDICAL GROUP AIRPORT OFFICE 3920 Airport Boulevard Mobile, AL 36608 251-342-3810 www.cmgdoctors.com CHILDREN’S MEDICAL GROUP Providence Office 610 Providence Park Drive, Suite 201 Mobile, AL 36695 251-639-1300 CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER 1504 Spring Hill Avenue, Suite 1600 Mobile, AL 36604 251-434-3915 BLANCHER & STADTHER 820 University Blvd, Suite 1B Mobile, AL 36609 251-342-8900

Mobile, AL 36619 251-445-4440 www.gulfcoastpediatrics.com JUST KIDZ MEDICAL 5466 Old Shell Rd Mobile, AL 36608 251-382-1878 MOBILE PEDIATRIC CLINIC 32 Tacon Street, Suite A Mobile, AL 36607 251-706-8170 www.mobilepeds.com MOBILE PEDIATRIC CLINIC 6321 Picadilly Square Mobile, AL 36609 251-342-8900 www.mobilepeds.com PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT MEDICINE 3290 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36606 251-435-5437 (KIDS) infirmarypediatrics.com

PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES OF MOBILE 3719 Dauphin Street, Suite 102 Mobile, AL 36608 251-344-1502 www.pediatricassociatesofmobile.com PEDIATRIC PARTNERS OF MOBILE 1605 University Boulevard Mobile, AL 36609 251-660-9393 PRIMECARE PEDIATRICS 5220 Overlook Rd Mobile, AL 36618 251-344-7044 SPRINGHILL PEDIATRICS 4300 Old Shell Road, #A Mobile, AL 36608 251-342-9928

MOBILE / MONTGOMERY

5675 Three Notch Road, Suite C

MIDTOWN PEDIATRICS 1504 Springhill Avenue, Suite 1430 Mobile, AL 36604 251-434-3917 www.usahealthsystem.com /midtownpeds

DE

ALBabyMag.com 31


MOBILE / MONTGOMERY

AZALEA CITY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 4736 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL 36608 251-300-8881 DRS. THOMAS AND MOORE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 801 S University Blvd Mobile, AL 36609 251-345-1717

MOBILE PREMIER PEDIATRIC DEN-

ALL ABOUT KIDS PEDIATRICS

TISTRY

2921 Zelda Rd.,

3920 Airport Blvd

Montgomery, AL 36106

Mobile, AL 36608

334-277-5431

251-342-3323

www.zeldapeds.com

www.mobilekidsdentist.com DR. GILLIS PAYNE VITAL SMILES

7006 Fulton Court

2727 Pleasant Valley Rd.

Montgomery, AL 36117

Mobile, AL 36606

334-244-7209

251- 473-5705

www.mobiledentists4kids.com

www.vitalsmiles.com

MOBILE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 1105 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL 36695 251-634-3835 www.mobilepediatricdentistry.com

ASSOCIATES VITAL SMILES

420 Cotton Gin Road

1501 Spring Hill Avenue

Montgomery, AL 36117

Mobile, AL 36604

334-260-9129

251- 586-0130

www.montg-pvillepediatric.com

www.vitalsmiles.com PARTNERS IN PEDIATRICS

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF MOBILE 4732 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL 36608 251-342-5979 www.gulfcoastkidsdentist.com

Montgomery

8160 Seaton Place

PEDIATRICIANS

334-272-1799

ALABAMA NEONATAL MEDICINE PC 2019 Normandie Drive Montgomery, AL 36111 334-281-7523

PRODUCTS YOU CAN TRUST! Organic Baby Clothes & Toys Strollers, Car Seats, and More!

Shop and Create your Baby Registry Online swaddleonline.com 2825 18th Avenue South Homewood, AL 35209 205.870.3503

   32

ALBabyMag.com

MONTGOMERY PEDIATRIC

@swaddlehomewood

Montgomery, AL 36116 www.mykidsdr.com


PRATTVILLE PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES

DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN

136 E. Main Street

645 McQueen Smith Rd. N, Suite 301

7047 Halcyon Summit Drive

Prattville, AL 36067

Prattville, AL 36066

Montgomery, AL 36117

334-272-1799

334-361-7811

334-277-6830

www.mykidsdr.com

www.montg-pvillepediatric.com

www.chew-chewtrain.com

PEDIATRIC HEALTHCARE

CARLILE PEDIATRICS

DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN

4700 Woodmere Blvd

78 Cambridge Court

68 Village Loop

Montgomery, AL 36106

Wetumpka, AL 36093

Wetumpka, AL 36093

334-273-9700

334-567-6915

334-277-6830

www.pedhealthcare.com

www.carlilepediatrics.com

www.chew-chewtrain.com

PHYSICIAN’S TO CHILDREN

WETUMPKA PEDIATRIC CLINIC

MONTGOMERY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

470 Taylor Rd., Suite 210

815 Jackson Trace Rd.

2600 Bell Road

Montgomery, AL 36117

Wetumpka, AL 36092

Montgomery, AL 36117

334-293-5033

334-567-2882

334-277-6690

MONTGOMERY

PARTNERS IN PEDIATRICS

www.smilesfromus.com

www.childrensal.org/ PhysiciansToChildren

DENTISTS

PRATTVILLE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

PROFESSIONAL PEDIATRICS

DENTISTS 4 CHILDREN

2600 Bell Road

4154 Carmichael Road

7015 Halcyon Park Drive

Prattville, AL 36066

Montgomery, AL 36106

Montgomery, AL 36117

334-358-6411

334-271-5959

334-284-1100

www.smilesfromus.com

www.professionalpediatrics.com

www.dentists4children.com

This listing is not comprehensive. You may research more pediatric health services at FamilyPhonePages.com.

ALBabyMag.com 33



Book Review

Good Good Father IF YOU’RE A FAN OF CHRIS TOMLIN,

you might want to head to the bookstore to pick up a new kids’ book. The Christian worship leader and Grammy- and Dove award-winning music artist drew inspiration from his most recent single “Good Good Father” (written by Pat Barrett and Tony Brown) to write a children’s picture book with the same name. “Good Good Father” (co-written with Pat Barrett and published in partnership between Tommy Nelson and Passion Publishing) is available in bookstores across the country. Tomlin’s first-ever book for children, it’s a delightful story that imparts in children a greater understanding of who God is and of who they are due to being loved by Him. “Good Good Father” chronicles the experiences of a bear named Tucker whose life and townspeople are forever changed when they learn just how great the King’s love is for them. Along the way, Tucker encounters a number of curious, humorous animals who each know one great thing about the King. However, they each have limited views of what makes him good. “Good Good Father” was. “What an exciting journey to write my first children’s book,” Tomlin says. “Being a dad makes this so special. It’s my prayer that Good Good Father helps children understand the amazing reality that we can call God our Father, that we are His beloved sons and daughters. It’s

a simple, yet powerful story—one that has been kid-tested in my own home and a joy to watch my girls experience.” If his writing career is anything like his singing career, expect big things: Tomlin has written songs that are sung by more people on a weekly basis than any other songwriter in the world.

ALBabyMag.com 35



Family Travel

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in

Florida

V

You want a sun-drenched vacation in paradise. The kids want a fun-filled getaway geared to them. Who says you can’t have it all? BY K I M H I L D E N B R A N D

VACATIONING WITH KIDS CAN FEEL LIKE A BIT OF A JUGGLING ACT:

It’s not always easy to find the perfect spot where you can enjoy a nice mix of adult and family time. The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa (the largest full-services resort in Florida) offers the best of both worlds. Located in South Walton County on Florida’s balmy Northwest Gulf Coast, the resort boasts amazing amenities. Parents adore the breathtaking views of sand and sea, six exciting restaurants, luxury spa, pools, fitness center, golf, and shopping. Kids love the child-friendly accommodations (some suites have bunk beds!), in-room video games and movies, nearby attractions including a waterpark and marine park, and special Kids Krew and Kids Night Out programs at the resort just for them. While you shop, golf, or simply relax on the beach with your favorite magazine, your children can head to Kids Krew, where capable and experienced staff will guide them in activities like kite-flying, water balloon play, slip-and-slides, and sand-sculpting.

FAMILY TRAVEL SPONSOR

They even hold special events, such as Holiday Mix-Up Day (paper snowball fights!), Field Day (teambuilding with giant soccer balls and parachutes), and Sweet Tooth Day (learning to make ice cream or cookies.) In the evening, if you’d like to linger over a quiet meal at one of the restaurants, simply drop off your children at Kids Night Out. While you savor your meal (and don’t even

Find more family-friendly travel tips and destinations from The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport at AlBabyMag.com/Travel.

ALBabyMag.com 37


family travel

have to cut anyone else’s food), your kids will have a great time roasting marshmallows over a beach bonfire, scanning the sky for constellations, undergoing secret-agent training, participating in pirate parades, and even having pillow fights during a pajama party. It’s a win-win situation for every member of the family: The kids are sure to have a blast, and you’ll get to relax, sink your toes into the sand, and unwind during the kind of vacation you’ve been dreaming about. Don’t forget to send us a postcard!

38 ALBabyMag.com

What You Need to Know

• Kids Krew and Kids Night Out cost is $50 for first child and $40 for each additional child. • Kids Krew is offered from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The cost includes lunch and a T-shirt. Children must be registered by 8:30 a.m. and cancellations must be made by 7:30 a.m. There is a $35 cancellation fee. • Kids Night Out is offered from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday. The cost includes dinner and a T- shirt. Children must be registered by 5 p.m. and cancellations must be made by 4 p.m. There is a $35 cancellation fee. • Both Kids Krew and Kids Night Out are offered spring break through Labor Day, as well as during select holidays. Kids’ Krew is also offered at other times during the year with a 10-child minimum. During either programs, activities may change due to weather, the interest of the children and the number of children (a minimum of three is required). You can register for both programs at the resort’s Activities Desk or call extension 3138. From outside the resort, call 800 - 559 -1805. • For children younger than 5, or during hours not covered by kids’ programs, guests at Hilton Sandestin Beach can take advantage of babysitting offered by outside licensed and bonded child care agencies, with assistance in arranging through the resort.


family travel

Where to Shop

What’s a vacation without a little retail therapy? You’ll have plenty of options near the resort: • Silver Sands Factory Store: the largest factory outlet in the nation, featuring more than 100 name-brand designers • Village of Baytowne Wharf: more than 30 world-class shops and speciality boutiques • Grand Boulevard: exclusive shops arranged in a charming Town Center atmosphere

Spa and Salon Services The 14,000-square-foot spa offers an extensive menu of treatments, as well as men’s and women’s lounge areas with cascading whirlpools, sauna and steam rooms, private lockers, plush robes, an all-new 24-hour fitness center, zero gravity loungers, and separate relaxation areas for men and women. The resort also offers a wide range of hair, makeup, and nail services at the full-service salon.

Local Attractions for Families Want to venture out for a day of excitement? Here’s where to go:

soccer games and amazing 18-foot leaps • Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park: an adventure park with more than 40 water attractions, three tropical mini golf courses, two go-kart tracks, and three high-thrill rides • U.S. Air Force Armament Museum: the only U.S. museum dedicated to the display of Air Force armament and “protected” by 25 reconnaissance, fighter, and bomber planes

Resort Details HILTON SANDESTIN

BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA Toll free 800-559-1805 or 850-267-9500 HiltonSandestinBeach.com

ACCOLADES: The resort has been recognized with the Forbes Travel Guide Star Rating, and been named ‘Top 150 U.S. Resorts’ and ‘Top 20 Florida Golf Resorts’ by Conde Nast Traveler magazine.

• Gulfarium: America’s second-oldest marine park, where dolphins delight crowds with hilarious

ALBabyMag.com 39


family calendar

T N E V E

s k c i p

1

LEGO® ROADSHOW JANUARY 28 – FEBRUARY 12 RIVERCHASE GALLERIA If someone in your family loves LEGO®, then you won’t want to miss THE LEGO®Americana Roadshow: Building Across America. This exciting (and free!) event will take place at the Riverchase Galleria from Saturday, January 28, through Sunday, February 12. Exhibition hours are Monday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The traveling installation features largescale LEGO® models and free building activities. You’ll get to admire 10 one-of-akind models of famous American landmarks made completely from

LEGO® bricks by

LEGO®Master Builders. Among others, you’ll see the U.S. Capitol Building, White House, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Statue of Liberty, Independence Hall, and Old North Church. Along with enjoying the models, you can participate in other fun events too: • Enjoy model

the

behind-the-scenes

load-in

beginning

LEGO®

Wednesday,

January 25 • Let the kids unleash their imagination at the LEGO® Brick Play Area • Build your own LEGO® Americana Roadshow–inspired model and take it home with you (the Statue of Liberty) •

Participate in the LEGO® Scavenger

Hunt and collect a special LEGO® prize if you complete it.

40 ALBabyMag.com


2

a

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

LITTLE LABS AND SCIENCE IN THE CITY

Looking for an experience that merges fun and learning? The McWane Science Center has introduced Little Labs and Science in the City, new daily programming in Itty Bitty Magic City (IBMC). Little Lab programs are 20- to 30-minute handson activities that enable children to experience STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). STEAM is the foundation of learning. Science in the City programs are short 2- to 3-minute teaching activities that are presented on the floor of IBMC throughout each day. Activities range from seasonal activities to favorites such as making slime, mini reactions, static electricity, weather bottles, magnets, or sink and float activities. Science in the City times vary. Head to the McWane Science Center soon to take part in this enhanced experienced that’s sure to delight your budding scientists and future engineers.

GOING PLACES

JANUARY 11 -MAY 7

Created by the renowned Scitech in Perth, Australia, Going Places is an interactive science exhibition that explores the technology humans have developed for travel. If you have ever wanted to pilot an airship, ride on a hovercraft, or control traffic in a city, now is your big chance! As well as exploring the technology that gets us around everyday, visitors will explore the way that travel has shaped the social fabric of our time. Visitors will also see new technology and get a glimpse of where our future is headed. With 17 interactive exhibits and 8 information kiosks detailing the incredible technology pioneered by humans to make the farthest reaches of our planet accessible, Going Places will be a wild ride!

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HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS As the Harlem Globetrotters prepare to bring their 2017 World Tour to the Pete Hanna Center at Samford University in Birmingham on Sunday, March 12 and Sunday, March 19, the iconic team took a timeout for Guinness World Records Day. Only one year after setting seven official Guinness World Records titles, the Globetrotters broke a single-day total of nine records this year, including the longest basketball hook-shot. Tickets to the see the Globetrotters in start at $29.00 and are officially on sale now at harlemglobetrotters.com.

Jan. 18 Jan. 22 March 7 March 12 March 19

Montgomery Huntsville Mobile Birmingham Birmingham

Garrett Coliseum Von Braun Center Mitchell Center Pete Hanna Center Pete Hanna Center

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KIDS’ FUN ZONE LOOK FOR THE ALABAMA BABY & CHILD KIDS’ FUN ZONE,

sponsored by America’s First Federal Credit Union, at local events this spring and summer. We’ll be there with coloring books, giant checkers, bean bag toss, and lots of other fun games to keep the kids entertained.

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where we’ll be next.


OPENS JANUARY 11

DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY

Explore the technology of transport Ever wanted to land a commercial airliner, load a cargo ship or pilot a hovercraft? Then come and experience more than 22 hands-on exhibits at Going Places.

PRESENTED BY

200 19TH STREET NORTH — BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203 — WWW.MCWANE.ORG


Heart Gallery

Heart Gallery of Alabama

EN’DAE, born September 2007 is fun

and energetic. He enjoys coloring and playing with his toys. He is very active, although he also enjoys sitting and watching Sponge Bob. En’dae is a very special child with unique needs who deserves to have a forever family.

If you are interested in adoption or would like to learn more about featured children, call Heart Gallery at 205-445-1293 or visit www.HeartGalleryAlabama.com. You can also help by making a tax-deductible donation to Heart Gallery of Alabama to help them continue to find the one thing these children want most—a home.

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Coca-Cola is a Proud Supporter of Alabama Baby

©2015 The Coca-Cola Company. All Rights Reserved.

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Known as the place “Where Babies Come From,” St. Vincent’s Health System has been providing personalized, compassionate maternity care for generations. Through Monogram Maternity, we now have even more offerings for expectant moms, including your very own birth designer. Learn more about Monogram Maternity at stvhs.com/MonogramMaternity.


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