I was 9 when I went through my reconstructive surgery. I am 20 now and I can hardly remember it. I really think that is about the perfect age. Kids that age can understand some of what is going on but still young enough not to remember it all. I was diagnosed when I was 18 days old. When your child gets sick you can expect her to be sicker than most. It is just what I have become use to. For the first few years you can expect to visit the hospital alot because you will get worried and feel like she should go and then most of the time she should be there. But just remember this, she is like any other child, no different, except she gets sick and has to take medication for the rest of her life. She can still grow up and be anything she wants to be and do anything. Don't hold her back because you think she will get hurt.