Our story began in Providence, RI. It was expected and not expected all at one in an experience that can be described only as: what just happened? It was, all the same, perfect.
On April 17, 2012 a daughter was born! Adelaide Eileen Martinka came into this world after over 36 hours of labor weighing 7 pounds, 7 ounces and 18 inches long.
June 22, 2012 during an unrelated hospitalization, Addie was diagnosed with Achondroplasia, the most common type of dwarfism caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene. She will, most likely, be about 4 feet tall.
This is our story, which started out about one and has turned into two…
Who we are:
I am a Philadelphia-native, turned New Englander. I love the north for its seasons, sports and amazing food and travel! My family of five is so happy to be together in a beautiful home in the Boston suburbs. I co-parent Adelaide Eileen and Camille Thea with their father, Dave, and have adopted an amazing teenager, Rachael with my wife-to-be, Kim. My goal began with advocating for dwarfism awareness, and the disability community… and has grown into so much more.
I love all things fitness and nutrition, and am committed to a lifestyle of health and wellness- as long as I am enjoying it! I work as a physical educator for disabled adults, as well as a group-ex instructor at the local Y. Kim is a Navy Chief, and while she loves living in New England, she will always be a southern girl.
I believe strongly in parent education for the best possible birth outcome, loving pregnancy, doulas, breast feeding, baby wearing, cloth diapers… and red wine! You’ll find more lighthearted pieces, too, like favorite recipes, talk about travel and beauty, and tips to making life easier!
As a Boston lifestyle blogger, my goal is to share how normal life is in our little suburb, even for families with special needs or disabled children, and we invite you to join us as we navigate our way!
Are you ready to know more about dwarfism? Start here, with Adelaide Has Achondroplasia. This is a safe place to ask questions, look for answers on your own, or just take the ride with us. Welcome.
