Catalogue of Chicks

Welcome to the Catalog of Chicks — a place where you can meet everyday women and read about their extraordinary acts of bravery and courage. We hope you are inspired by their stories — we certainly are!

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<<Previous Chick Next Chick>>Judy Thompson
Wilmington, DE
Submitted by: Dina RobertsonFEATURED BRAVE CHICK FOR MAY 2008

Below is the letter we received from nominating chick, Dina Robertson, about her dear friend, Judy Thompson, and her family:

April 2, 2008

"In addition to each or your own stories, Judy Thompson is one of the bravest chicks I know and a true inspiration for women, mothers, and sisters, everywhere.

In March 2005, Judy and Jason Thompson welcomed a beautiful little girl into their family: Avery Noel Thompson. Early in her life, Avery started seeing doctors and underwent tests to determine whether she had Turners Syndrome. While those tests were negative, another identified she had cataracts (both eyes) and at four weeks of age, Avery underwent her first surgery. The Thompsons were referred to specialists and after several tests and months, it was determined that Avery had Cockayne Syndrome, Type 2 or B. It is a rare genetic disorder and they were informed that death typically occurs by age 7.

When you meet Avery, she is one of the happiest, sweetest children and I believe her strength comes from her parents, particularly Judy who left her corporate job to be a full-time mother, care giver, therapist, nurse, wife, friend, you name it. Three years later, she continues to amaze everyone. Avery has had other surgeries and started school (which she loves) all with Judy being her biggest fan. I am nominating Judy, because from the beginning she was always strong. Now, I am not saying tears were not shed, but I am saying she started out as a Brave Chick, doing all the things to make Avery’s life fulfilled and normal and she continues that. Every time you see Judy, she is wearing a smile and looks great. She is an inspiration for others and I am proud to say she is my friend.”

In Friendship,

Dina Robertson

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Cockayne Syndrome is an extremely rare, inherited genetic disorder. Type 2, is the congenital form and is marked by poor growth at birth, little to no postnatal neurologic development, severe muscle/joint contractures, and death typically occurs by age 7. For more detailed information and to meet the other beautiful CS kids, please visit www.cockaynesyndrome.net

Avery is very social and loves to be held and to listen to people talking, reading or singing. Her favorite activities are playing in her exersaucer, highchair or playmat. She loves the water and especially the spray nozzle in the kitchen sink and in her bath. She also loves to pet her dog, Jackson. But more than anything else, she loves being held and to grab peoples faces and hair. This really makes her laugh. She loves her own crib, but she doesn't like to take naps -- usually one nap a day for about 45 minutes, and she wakes up several times throughout the night. She does not love having her teeth brushed, getting her nose suctioned, or getting blood drawn! Avery has a wonderful and unique personality, like any CS child, and she shows amazing resilience, persistence and commitment to achieve as much as possible along her journey. Avery, like all children, is so special and beautiful in her own way and an absolute joy in our life. If you ever meet Avery, her smile will melt your heart. She is pure love.

Thank you for reading Avery's story! To learn more about Avery’s story, visit her caringbridge site at:

Avery's Story

Thank you so much, Jason and Judy, for allowing us to share Avery’s story on the one brave chick website. Thank you, Dina Robertson, for finding the time, energy, love and support to recognize the Thompson Family as the BRAVE FAMILY in your life!

Please stay tuned each month for more Featured Brave Chicks!! Your submissions have inspired each of the Founding Chicks and we cannot wait to share your stories of courage and love.<<Previous Chick Next Chick>>