By Vicki Zandier
May 20, 2022
It is a common theme among parents of having doctors not believe a parents concern about their child. No matter how hard they try to advocate for their child, most doctors disregard the symptoms for unknown reasons. Advocacy World Doubt
Marjorie Strebe is all too familiar with this struggle. In 1984 she welcomed her daughter Michelle unaware of the journey she was about to embark. Unknown to Strebe, her daughter was born with William’s Syndrome. This genetic disorder is the result of 26-28 genes on chromosome 7 and causes developmental delays and health problems.
As soon as she had concerns about Michelle’s development, she started to write them down. Strebe made the decision to bring Michelle to a pediatrician to express her concerns. This marked the beginning of their difficult health journey.
“Knowledge is power. You have to be an advocate to make sure that your child gets what they need.”
– Marjorie Strebe
No doctor was listening to her concerns about how Michelle wasn’t developing at the usual pace. A particular experience involves a doctor threatening to call CPS on the grounds of child abuse because Michelle was so frail. All Strebe had ever done was try to find answers, but they were constantly met with disbelief from doctors and were dismissed.
The family moved to Cincinnati where they finally received answers. As soon as Strebe arrived at a clinic specializing in genetic disorders, they doctors had an answer. Michelle had William’s Syndrome. At 3 1/2 years old Michelle was rushed into tests and Strebe finally got the help she needed.
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Strebe had talked to countless people about her journey with Michelle and decided to write a book titled “Another Day, Another Challenge.” In this book she discusses their medical battle and advocacy for children.Â
Listen to the podcast on the platforms below.
“Educate. Enlighten. Entertain.”
Contact Information
Marjorie Strebe
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Disclaimer: This blog does not provide medical advice. Anything you hear or read in this blog should always be discussed with your primary care provider.
