Aziza's first visit to the beach, she was 4 years old. Her skin was so pale and unaccustomed to being in the sunlight. Because she was diagnosed as having osteopenia (low bone mineral density) I allowed her skin as much time in the sunshine as possible to soak up the Vitamin D and strengthen her bones. In rare cases, osteopenia in children can be caused by long term exposure to drugs that control asthma, as well as by confinement to bed/wheelchair and malnutrition. This condition can be treated by consumption of Vitamin D, Calcium and regular physical activity to promote healthy bone growth. After spending so much time outdoors Aziza became a child with a significantly darker skin tone than seen in these early photos. She loved the water so much and the beach was one of her favortite places to visit. The first photo shows her attempting to walk up a very small incline from the water to the beach. This was very difficult for her to do back then but great exercise, so I stayed a few feet back to encourage this independance - even though my Mommy heart just wanted to take her hand and help her up! If only I could have figured out a way to get her to stop eating the sand ...
4 comments:
Wow, look how tiny she was and her skin is so much different too.
The innocence of a child experiencing new things in their life, is amazing. Aziza was so blessed to have you, God Bless. Praying. {()} xo xo
Smart mama taking her to the beach! She looks so little in these pictures.
It is not just her skin that is different, her hair lacks the shine and health it developed under your excellent care. You are a wonderful mother. While I know you must be hurting unbearably I hope you can take some comfort in knowing that.
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