July 25, 2013
Saving My Life

Dear Dr. Laura;

My name is Autumn. Forgive me if this letter isn't very sophisticated; I am only 3 months old. My mom used to think there was nothing wrong with day care, but then she started to listen to you. Luckily, before I came along, my parents decided that they would do whatever it took for one of them to be home full time to take care of me. At first it was going to be Dad, but life changed in unexpected ways, and my parents started their own business so now I have Mom and Dad with me at home all day.

They take turns taking care of me and working. The house is mess. There are no date nights right now. I can tell they don't have much time for themselves, but we are all really happy.

I love my daddy, but there are times he just doesn't smell as good as Mommy, and she is the only one who can make the world right for me. I can't imagine how scary and confusing it would be to spend the whole day away from her, and I'm glad I don't have to.

Just the other day I started to spit up as babies do, but this time I started to choke. My eyes got huge, my face turned red, and I was terrified. I couldn't breathe, so I couldn't cry for help. I looked around and my mommy was there to help me--she is always there. She held me all night afterwards, and we both felt much better.  I never made a sound, but somehow Mommy heard my heart. I wonder if a day care worker would have noticed my silent struggle over all the other babies? Maybe. But...what if?

Because you nagged my mommy and daddy, I never have to hope I will be noticed. My mom and dad keep me close every day.  So keep reminding mommies how much their babies need them. You are changing lives, and you saved mine.

Autumn



Posted by Staff at 11:02 AM