FEATURED FAMILY: Meet the Blazer Family

Aaron, Amber, Olivia and Henry

BY JAMIE MCCABE PHOTOS BY 21 VINES PHOTOGRAPHY

Aaron and Amber Blazer have overcome some significant challenges since the birth of their daughter Olivia, who is almost 4. Born with Down syndrome, she needed a g-tube for feeding starting when she was only six weeks old. She can now consume solid food and drink with a straw, but it’s still a struggle to introduce her to new foods and increase her fluid intake. Occupational and feeding therapy played a crucial role in getting Olivia started, and now her parents focus on gradually exposing her to new foods in a stress-free manner. Olivia just completed her first year of developmental preschool at Northwood Elementary in Franklin and also receives several outpatient therapies each week. She now has a new baby brother, who joined the family in January.

The other cherished family members have fur and whiskers and say ‘meow’. Coco has been with the family since she was a kitten and is now 14 years old. Momo was adopted from a family member.

Amber was born and raised in Indiana, graduated from Franklin College, and earned her doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Cincinnati. Aaron was born in Virginia but moved to Indiana with his family as a baby. Amber works as a hospital pharmacist while Aaron takes care of Olivia and Henry. Given Olivia’s numerous appointments and therapies, and the challenges associated with finding a daycare facility comfortable with Olivia’s g-tube, it made sense for one of them to stay home.

The Blazer’s advice for other families facing similar challenges is to never give up on their goals. They emphasize celebrating the accomplishments and everything their child can achieve rather than focusing on their limitations.

One of the happiest memories with Olivia was her first time at the beach, where she delighted in the sand and water, getting excited with each wave. Milestones like saying “Mama” and “Dada” for the first time and taking her first steps are also unforgettable. Amber and Aaron weren’t sure that walking would ever be possible for Olivia, but she started to walk independently after turning three. The extra effort and hard work Olivia put into reaching those milestones made them even more special.

Olivia was involved in music therapy before starting preschool, where she participated in a small monthly group with other children with Down syndrome. Aaron and Amber are planning to enroll her in swim lessons or dance lessons to provide her with a new fun outlet. Olivia’s favorite activities include coloring, swimming, watching movies, and going on walks— typical activities enjoyed by most children.

The Blazer’s favorite vacation destination is Hilton Head, South Carolina, as the whole family loves the beach. To make travel less stressful, they plan ahead, ensuring they have snacks, entertainment, and sleeping arrangements ready. They also pack extra supplies for Olivia’s feeding tube in the diaper bag.

The family supports causes related to Down syndrome. Amber’s brother-in-law and sister-in-law are organizing an event called the “Down Right Perfect Ride,” a motorcycle ride to raise awareness and funds for Down Syndrome Indiana and the Lucky Mama Project.

One of the happiest memories with Olivia was her first time at the beach, where she delighted in the sand and water, getting excited with each wave. Milestones like saying “Mama” and “Dada” for the first time and taking her first steps are also unforgettable.

Several resources and organizations have been instrumental in helping the family navigate the world of special needs. First Steps provided great support when Olivia was younger, and they miss her therapists since she recently aged out. Down Syndrome Indiana has been a valuable resource, offering community involvement opportunities, and connecting the Blazers with other families. The Lucky Mama Project, a local group, provided them with care baskets.

The Blazer’s advice for other families facing similar challenges is to never give up on their goals.