Katherine Frerichs was away from her 8-month-old son, Ethen, for just a few hours. But those brief moments would forever change their lives.
While Katherine was taking a class about child protective services at Offuts Air Force Base in Lincoln, Nebraska, Ethen was left with babysitter Michelle Charles. During that time, the woman aggressively shook Ethen, leaving him with permanent brain damage.
Michelle admitted to a judge that she shook Ethen because she was mad at his mother. The sitter was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison.
Katherine has come forward with her story to spread awareness about shaken baby syndrome, but also to offer hope. In a 2011 interview with KETV, Ethen was revealed to be a happy, energetic second-grader.
While he required brain surgery, his right arm will be permanently paralyzed, and his right eye will have little peripheral vision. However, Ethen appears to be an ordinary kid. Katherine is no longer angry, because she says it doesn't serve Ethen's interest to be resentful.
The mother hopes to educate others on the dangers of the condition that is only preventable by caretakers and parents. Symptoms of shaken baby syndrome include:
- Extreme irritability
- Difficulty staying awake
- Breathing problems
- Poor eating
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Pale or bluish skin
- Seizures
- Paralysis
- Coma
Shaken baby syndrome cannot be caused by bouncing a child, minor falls, or rough play, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is typically caused when a caretaker or parent loses their temper and shakes a baby out of frustration. If you are having difficulties managing your anger, it is recommended to consult your doctor and seek a referral for counseling.
Please SHARE this important message to let others know about the dangers of shaken baby syndrome.
