Ella had a better day today! She was definitely not her normal energetic self, and at one point passed out on the couch, but there was only one super short episode all day. Obviously, the goal is for her to have zero. Time will tell if this new dose is the right one. I am happy to report I found a new way to give her the medicine, and she got two full doses today.

Since starting the blog, I have been amazed at the response. People reach out privately with support, almost daily, and their words are truly inspiring. Sometimes I get suggestions and little tips to help, sometimes there are questions about places we have been and modifications we have tried, and sometimes there are the most thoughtful messages of encouragement. It makes me wish I had started sharing our journey a long time ago.

What amazes me the most though are the stories that people have opened up and shared with me. There are people I have known my whole life who are on their own confusing and unknown paths. I know what it was like to be traveling alone, and am so grateful they have let me in and shared their stories. These wonderfully strong people deserve to be supported as well.

For one, my childhood friend who now lives in Tennessee with her beautiful family. Her husbands kidney is failing him and she has stepped up while he awaits a transplant. Not only is she still working and momming every single day, she recently discovered that she is a match, and god willing, will be donating a kidney to him soon. There are some physical criteria she has to meet first, and is kicking ass to make sure she does. I can’t imagine what she is going through, but her determination and love for her husband are truly inspiring. I ask you all to say a prayer for her family. It’s going to be a long road to recovery for both of them.

I can’t go without mentioning a beautiful soul I have known most of my life, who despite life’s twists and turns is doing a top notch job raising her amazing little girl. Nothing can break a mother’s love, and this single mama has proven that over and over. Each time she has been knocked down, she has gotten up a stronger woman, mother, and advocate. I admire her willingness to embrace change and not be afraid of the unknown. She focuses on the here and now and truly believes knowing her daughter is healthy and loved, is the perfect recipe for happiness. She is contemplating some big changes right now and still manages to send me such amazingly uplifting messages daily. I want her to know she is loved. Hopefully we can all send her some extra prayers.

Finally, a friend I met about a year ago, is dealing with a family member who is battling addiction and depression. Many nights before Ella’s episodes started we would be texting, and you could sense the fear she was feeling through her messages. Addiction is an ugly beast, I have family members who are still struggling with it. I am happy to be a sounding board and support her. It’s the least I can do. I found out yesterday that this particular family member is now sixty days clean and sober. This is a huge step, and I will continue to pray for that number to double, triple, etc. This mama has been through a lot and can use all the prayers she can get.

Strangers can be just as wonderful. Today I joined a new group on Facebook for parents with children who have developmental delays. I shared Ella’s story and welcomed myself to the group. Fifty four comments later, and multiple private messages, I found myself learning so much. These mamas reached out to share their stories and outcomes with me. Some of their children were showing very similar characteristics and delays as Ella, and had a diagnosis to go along with them. Here I am wondering what else we can do, and unknowingly these mamas have given me food for thought, and armed me knowledge. It feels great to be a part of a community that understands the daily struggles.

There are also so many of you who have already shared your stories in person, via text, by phone, or on social media. I applaud your courage. It has taken me five years to find mine. I really do love hearing them so please keep sharing. No one should ever have to feel alone and I will always support those in need!

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