You might have seen Dexter's name here and there.
He's been 'getting around a bit' lately.
Some of Dexter's 'friends' have known Dexter since the very first moments
he found his way to us. (If you have been touched by Dexter,
and you follow his story, we consider you to be his friend. Thank you)
Other friends might not have know Dexter for very long.
a quick summary of Dexter's first two years. For some people, this page will be a page of memories - some happy and some sad.
For the rest of you, let me introduce you to our cheeky little man.
(The green writing indicates a link - click for more information)
He was a good size, for this age, but suddenly took a turn
for the worse and his battles began.
Dexter was in three hospitals for the first four months of his life. He had countless procedures, scans and tests. He had many, many setbacks. Bringing him home was one of the scariest and most treasured days of our lives. | A photo-video of Dexter's first month. |
Our world went into free fall.
The day we found out that Dexter had brain damage was the worst day we could imagine. Telling everyone, was just as hard. Link: Finding out | A photo video of Dexter's first three months. |
We are still learning just how much Dexter can see. At the moment, he can see about 5 colours. He can see at a range of about 30cm. He is learning to play. He has a little room, where it is quiet and we are taking advantage of the fact that his sight may improve, up until the age of 8yrs. We have colour boards and even, new clothing, to help him. | |
Cerebral palsy: This is the big thing in our lives. This is the thing that changes everything we do. Dexter may never be able to walk up to us, put his arms around us and say "I love you" and this is something we live with, every day. He needs assistance with everything, but we're so proud of him. | Dexter in his walker and on his trampoline Dexter's a quick learner Dexter has shown us the meaning of 'determination' and he has taught us how to love. |
Can you believe it!? After everything else, Dexter gets diagnosed with cancer! Our broken hearts were kicked to the ground with this news. Six rounds of chemotherapy and a few surgeries, over about 8 months... and pregnant. This was a truly awful time, but Dexter taught us strength and patience and we got through it. | Cancer journey in photos- video and post surgery Dexter had weekly blood tests and several blood and platelet transfusions |
We have been lucky enough to go on two Camp Quality camps. We enjoyed packing for a weekend, where we didn't need to go to hospital. As a way to 'pay back', we raised $6725 for Camp Quality, through Dexter and the People's Truck. *We also raised over $7000 for the Cancer Council, through Relay for Life. | Read the 'First Video' and 'Second Video' posts to find our favourite parts of these videos. |
Postcards for Dexter PO Box 3151, Minnamurra NSW 2533 | The last two years have been difficult. We're exhausted. But, we've grown stronger and have met some of the most kind-hearted, genuine people. Our lives are richer because we have Dexter. We appreciate everyone who loves our little boy. Your love makes the hard days just that little bit easier. | Melissa sings to Dexter: Somewhere Over the Rainbow and Dexter plays the Aunty Carol song Sloppy kisses xx |