Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neuro-genetic disorder characterized by intellectual and developmental delay, sleep disturbance, seizures, jerky movements especially hand-flapping, frequent laughter or smiling, and usually a happy demeanor. People with AS are sometimes known as "angels", both because of the syndrome's name and because of their youthful, happy appearance.

This is the mysterious diagnosis for my daughter eluding doctors for over 6 years. 6 years and so many doctor visits lately, we now can put a name to the mysterious monster that was effecting our little girl. The good news is, this is a disease that will not effect her lifespan. However, she will be plagued by seizures and since she was dealt a horrible deck when she was born, is also effected with Type 1 Diabetes which doesn't help with all her other ailments.

However, she is my angel. And if they are able to find a genetic cure, her little brother is the walking cure. However, genetic research is very new.

Now that we have a name to the monster plaguing her, its funny how that alone changes your life. You are done searching and you don't realize how much of your time was spent searching, wondering, what was going on with her. Is there something you are missing? Is there something that you didn't do right?

I am finally able to get back to my artwork. Something I have missed. Something my daughter is now getting involved into because it is her way of expressing herself which is just fabulous!

Why I have thrown myself into my artwork and starting up the Art for Angels project with some of my friends. I hope you will take a chance and read the forum post I placed up asking people who want to create a piece that will help start awareness for genetic disorders in children or who want to donate pieces to be sold where the profits go into research.

It's funny how calm you become after you finally get a diagnosis! I am so glad its fall now. My daughter loves Halloween and she just turned 7 yesterday!! It's going to be a good year for her!