She is Loved Raleigh NC Children's Photographer

I met up with the E family this Sunday to do some 6 month old pictures of Miss Audrina.  The last time I saw this little delight she was just a few days old.  I've gotten to know this family over almost year now. It was such a perfect day for this session and the weather couldn't have been any nicer.  As we spent the afternoon together I learned of a disorder that Audrina has been diagnosed with, a disorder that I had never heard of and has really stuck with me since learning about.  This sweet angel was diagnosed just a few days after her birth with a metabolic disorder called PKU (Phenylketonuria).  Most of you will probably think what I did, oh, a metabolic disorder.  She must just have to avoid a few types of food.  It's much more serious than that.  After speaking 

with her mom and then researching it myself I learned that these children who are diagnosed with this must avoid all protein and dairy.  Yes, you read that right, all protein and dairy.  I thought my 3 year old was difficult to feed.  I can't even imagine the challenge that comes with avoiding all protein and dairy.  If they do not avoid these foods the consequences are detrimental.  Eating foods with protein or dairy can cause developmental delays, behavioral problems, seizures and mental retardation. I asked her mom if I could put up a few links to generate some awareness about this disorder and all that comes with it from avoiding the foods to affording the very expensive formula and supplements that these children have to be on for the rest of their lives.  Audrina was the 25th baby in North Carolina to be diagnosed with this disorder.  Only 1 out 25,000 babies will have this disorder.  March of Dimes has a wonderful website that explains this disorder in detail and allows for donations to fund research and help families get the formulas and supplements they need to keep these kiddos as healthy as possible.  If you're interested in learning more please check out their website, http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/14332_1219.asp. 
Donations can be made to:


UNC Pediatric Genetics Gift Fund

UNC Hosptial

CB#7487, Division of Genetics and Metabolism

Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7487

UNC Tax ID#: 56-6001393 

***All donations are tax deductible!

 The more people are aware of the disorder, the more we can all help!


If you have any other questions about this disorder or how you can help, please contact Jessica Edwards at:plegaljess@nc.rr.com.


Thank E family for opening my eyes to this disorder and for spending the day with me.  Audrina is just adorable and I can't wait to see her in another 6 months.  Hopefully she won't remember the bridge!!!