'Doubling Down With The Derricos': Karen says Dawsyn associates any touch with pain after her heart surgery
Karen and Deon Derrico were shocked to find out that their newborn Dawsyn Derrico has a hole in her heart. While the new parents were fearful of what might happen, they decided to stay strong for the sake of their children and Dawsyn. Karen spent most of her time at the hospital while Deon spent time at home with the rest of the children.
After spending months apart, Dawsyn was finally ready to come home. Her first surgery was successful and she was set to have another after a couple of weeks. While Karen and Deon were happy to have their daughter in the house, the pair admitted that it had not been an easy road.
Karen recalled that when Dawsyn was first brought home, she did not smile at all. She assumed it was due to spending the first six months in the hospital where she was constantly being treated due to her heart condition. Karen stated that Dawsyn was a 'victim of pain cushion' as for the first six months it was all about poking her with needles to ensure her vitals are alright.
Karen further added that it reached a point where she started associating touch with pain. While it was a hard time for the family to get Dawsyn comfortable, Karen admitted that the love and support that her daughter received from the rest of the siblings proved to be helpful. At the same time, Karen decided to rely on research, prayer and spending one on one time with Dawsyn to get her comfortable. She admitted that over a period of time things got better as they got a hang of how things should be. Karen said that even though Dawsyn was back home, it did not mean there was nothing to worry about.
To make sure one person is always there for her, Karen and Deon decided to distribute the work between them. While Karen focused on the triplets, Deon decided to be with the older children. Even though the two had thought they had everything prepared, the stress of not spending time together and lack of communication was affecting the relationship. Will the family get through this?
'Doubling Down With The Derricos' airs on Wednesdays at 10 pm ET on TLC.