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When our son was born at 28 weeks on Christmas Day, we knew he was a fighter. What we didn’t know was how long and winding the journey would be. Not just through those fragile NICU months, but through the years that would follow.
Today, our Christmas miracle is thriving. He’s 8 years old, full of life, energy, and resilience. He may be small in size, but his heart and story are bigger than life.
The Early Journey
Looking back on those early days of fear, the uncertainty, the whispered prayers in NICU rooms, I realize how much strength surrounded us. His strength. Our family’s strength. The strength of every nurse, doctor, and volunteer who lifted us when we needed it most.
We will forever be grateful for the unexpected gift we received that Christmas. Not wrapped in ribbons, but wrapped in hope and the unbreakable spirit of a little boy ready to meet the world on his own terms.
Parenting ADHD/ODD
Over the years, we’ve fought hard for him, and with him. From physical health concerns in the beginning to behavioral challenges today, every stage has brought highs and lows.
In May 2024, after years of emotional outbursts, impulsive behavior, and frustration struggles, he was officially diagnosed with ADHD and ODD. We weren’t surprised. His challenges mirrored so much of what I experience myself with ADHD.
We saw the signs:
- Quick overstimulation
- Constant need for engaging activities
- Big emotions and big outbursts
- Aggression
Seeing Progress
Starting ADHD medication wasn’t easy. We’ve tried multiple medications and dosages and with each adjustment bringing hope, setbacks, recalibrations, and small victories.
What’s improving:
- Fewer behavioral calls from school
- Stronger focus in the classroom
- Good grades and growing confidence
School is where his progress shines. Home is where the real battles still show up: the anger, meltdowns, sibling conflicts, and emotional dysregulation.
Therapy, Hope, and Small Wins
Behavioral therapy is part of our journey too. Progress is slow and sometimes invisible day-to-day, but we hold onto hope.
We remind ourselves:
- Progress isn’t always loud.
- Healing doesn’t happen overnight.
- Growth takes time, love, patience, and grace.
Our Christmas Miracle, Still
He faces invisible battles with his ADHD and ODD and we continue to monitor, support, and walk beside him. Specialists check his growth, emotional health, and future possibilities.
Every appointment and hard day reminds me:
This boy was built for big things. He’s thriving, in his own way, on his own timeline.
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FAQ: Where Are We Now – Our Christmas Miracle Baby
How does ADHD ODD affect daily life?
It brings emotional ups and downs, outbursts, and challenges in both home and school environments.
What helps most on tough days?
Routines, therapy, small wins, and a lot of patience and grace.
Does ADHD ODD progress get better with time?
Progress can be slow, but with support, love, and the right resources, growth happens.
How do you stay hopeful as a parent?
By focusing on the good moments, leaning on support systems, and remembering the strength in our child.