Emy came under care of Show Hope’s Special Care Center in Jiaozuo, China in August 2009. She was diagnosed with biliary atresia, a congenital liver condition. If corrective surgery is received within the first few weeks of life, children born with this condition have a 30% chance of recovery without the need for further surgery. If surgery is not available within these early weeks, a liver transplant within the first few years of life is necessary for survival.
Recently, Emy’s nurses noticed that she was developing a yellow cast to her skin. Because of her history with biliary atresia, the nurses were understandably alarmed. Lab tests were quickly ordered and to the great relief of the staff, all results came back completely normal. After a little investigative work, the nurses were able to determine that Emy’s skin color had changed simply due to a recent increase in Emy’s intake of carotene foods like carrots. It is this same level of care and attention that makes it possible for children like Emy to thrive. In fact, Emy’s nurses celebrated since her skin color changes were actually the sign of beautiful, healthy skin.
Emy loves to play with balls and is able to follow simple instructions well. She attends preschool every day and is doing well in class. And like many toddlers, she is also learning not to put everything in her mouth. Emy sometimes gets jealous of the other babies but this sweet little girl is adored by everyone she meets!
As we celebrate Emy’s upcoming adoption by her forever family, please pray for her and the other orphans under care with this same condition. Orphans like Thea and Zarek (pictured) who need a forever family in order to survive. With treatment, children with biliary atresia can have an excellent quality of life.
