November 29, 2018 Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. &nbsp;We are adjusting to the realization that life is not always what you imagined it to be. However, &nbsp;we are trusting in God and believing that He will meet all of Xander's and our needs. Thank you for visiting and for your support. Alexander "Xander" James Walter was born on November 6th, 2018 at 11:52 am at Einstein Memorial Medical Center in East Norriton. He was full term, weighed 7 lbs 1 oz, and was 21.25 inches long. Shortly after being born, he was brought to the NICU at the hospital because he wasn't getting enough oxygen and kept sounding raspy, like he couldn't clear out his airway. On November 8th, he was transferred by ambulance down to the N/IICU at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where he stayed for 9 weeks. Xander has been diagnosed with Moebius Syndrome. This is a very rare neurological condition where the 6th and 7th cranial nerves are underdeveloped or missing. They estimate there are only about 2,000 people living with Moebius in the entire world. These two nerves control lateral eye movement and movements of the muscles in the face. Because of the underdevelopment of these nerves, people with Moebius cannot move their eyes laterally and cannot show facial expressions (can't smile or frown). Fortunately, people with Moebius have normal intelligence. There are many varying degrees in which someone with Moebius may be affected. In some instances, the syndrome is also associated with physical problems in other parts of the body, or other cranial nerves could be underdeveloped as well. Thankfully, &nbsp;Xander seems to only be affected by the 6th and 7th nerves. We're learning more and more each day how Moebius is affecting our little man. However, we're also seeing how he is learning to overcome the obstacles and challenges he faces. We're excited you're here to help support us through your thoughts and prayers and we go on this journey with Xander. &nbsp;

Xander Walter

Update: My Story – by Kristen Walter