As a mama of a son who was born with clubfoot, today’s post has a special place in my heart. When you are told your child will be born with clubfoot, it’s emotional and the questions start swirling around in your mind. When starting out on the journey of clubfoot parenting, it can feel lonely.
I’ve found such comfort in connecting with other clubfoot parents as they share their clubfoot journey and having a community to turn to when I’ve had questions or needed comfort. So it’s my absolute pleasure and honor to introduce you to a friend of mine and her precious son.
Today, we meet Josiah, who was born with clubfoot.
Tell us about Josiah.
He’s the youngest of 3 boys. He is a happy baby! Always smiling. Loves music. He rolled over at 2 months. Sat at 6 months. Crawled at 8 months. He has not walked yet, but we have hopes it will be soon.
When did you find out about Josiah’s clubfoot condition?
I found out Josiah would be clubfoot at my 20-week ultrasound. It was just after Christmas and it made the New year a bit tough to take in. Finding out when your pregnant that your baby is not 100% healthy is pretty tough.
How is Josiah now?
Josiah just turned a year old and he is doing wonderfully! He went through casting, a tenotomy and 23/7 braces all within his first year. It may seem like much but at his young age, the bones in his feet and legs are still developing, so it’s the perfect time to adjust them.
What’s the hardest part?
The hardest part of the clubfoot journey so far has been the first few weeks of bracing. We got almost no sleep. It took him awhile to adjust. Also, his legs and feet were sensitive to touch at that time, since they had spent so much time in casts.
What advice do you have for new clubfoot parents?
My advice for new clubfoot parents is to take lots of pictures before starting treatment. I regret not getting too many candid photos of those little crooked feet.
Another thing is to remember that the journey is worth the outcome. I felt so lost at times. Not getting much sleep. Not quite knowing how to navigate my feelings, trying to be strong for my baby, but feeling so helpless when he cried. One day I realized this is just temporary and all our tough moments will be overshadowed by the happiness of seeing him walk and run one day.
I am so grateful to have the opportunity to share Josiah’s story! Dominique is a blogger at Writing Mother Fashionista and publishes beautiful motherhood posts, gives beauty advice, and she openly shares about her son’s journey and advocates for clubfoot awareness. Be sure to connect with her through social media as well.
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What questions do you have for Dominique or myself about clubfoot? Leave a comment below and I will do my best to respond.
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