Laurel is a Trooper

As some of the family knows, Laurel suffers from an Irritable Bladder condition. While not life-threatening in any way, I wouldn't wish this condition on anyone. For years, I assumed I wasn't giving her enough attention or didn't know how to toilet train my child because we've been battling accidents since she was two (she's six now). Finally, after she tested positive for a UTI, and I described her symptoms, her pediatrician told me she suspected irritable bladder (I went in there expecting to leave with the name of a counselor because I couldn't seem to toilet train my daughter). The pediatrician didn't want to put Laurel through the battery of tests required to know for sure that was the problem, but recommended medication. So we went on medication. The accidents continued, but occurred only in the late afternoon. Four more UTIs in four months followed. Finally the urgent care doctor told me we needed more testing. So Laurel went through 4-5 tests at Children's hospital to find out if she had reflux - she didn't - thank goodness. But it was confirmed she had a stubborn bladder. We ended up at a pediatric urologist's office and left on two different, stronger medications. These have worked wonders, but we still have accidents. So today, she got yet another, stronger prescription. Hopefully this will do the trick. We'll go off the meds in December and find out if they've cured her bladder.

I wanted to share Laurel's story because I think she's a trooper. Of all my children, I think God knew she could handle this the best. Irritable Bladder means the bladder contracts on it's own with no warning, causing accidents even if you don't think you have to go. So she's endured accidents at dance class, at school, at friend's houses, and at home. Yet she is still her bubbly little self. Her happy self-concept has stayed intact. She has happily let doctors and technicians do many tests on her without crying or being afraid. And she hasn't once felt discouraged (wish I could say the same).

Laurel, you have all the qualities of a hero, or a princess, or even better, a princess-hero. You are happy, positive, helpful, brave, loving, and determined. And I've learned a lot by watching you handle this - you're one of my heros and I love you!