Here is what I know for sure. Last summer was the absolute scariest of my life. I still can’t look back on what happened with Ella and feel the emotions that I should because feeling them means spiraling, and spiraling means a hot mess mama.

Instead I have poured those emotions into advocating for my little girl to get every thing she is entitled to, and deserves in this world. In the last year I have formed some exceptional relationships, learned more about the healthcare system then I ever wanted to know, written letters, and called senators. I also realized that no matter how alone I felt there was always someone out there feeling the same as me, willing to listen.

When I started my blog my intention was to write about Ella and our life as a family. It was intended to be my outlet for sharing, and I was grateful for whoever was there to listen and support our family. I never imagine it would become what is has. While it’s not known far and wide, it has grown bigger than I could have ever expected.

I have people messaging me for advice, asking me questions, and sending prayers. I have strangers telling me that they are so thankful I am sharing our story because it makes them feel like they are less alone. I run into friends out in the community who ask me about Ella. Friends I didn’t even know were reading my blog but clearly are because they are referencing things that I have written about.

I hear from people who are scared. Scared of what the future holds for their child and who are reluctant to share their story with people outside of their circle. I can relate so much to those people. For years we wanted to keep Ella’s disability in a safe place where only we knew about it. A place free from judgement, questioning, and opinions. A place where we controlled the narrative. By doing this we lost friends, stopped getting invited to events, and I am sure had tons of trashed talked behind our backs. Do I regret it? No. We weren’t ready to share our full story just yet. Everyone’s timeline is different and no one respects that more than me.

One we finally were ready the most amazing thing happened. The more I shared and fought, the more empowered I felt. I was making a difference in Ella’s life and the lives of other people. It felt rewarding, in a very private way. The truth is, most of my conversations with others have taken place on a very personal and individual level. I truly feel that if someone is taking the time to reach out, I am making sure I find the time to listen.

With the being said, I have decided to start up a new social media platform, using the name of my blog. My goal is for it to be a safe place for people to share their journey and what they have overcome. I want to feature more children, and adults, from the special needs community in my blog and continue to follow them as they continue down their path. I have already reached out to a few friends and asked them to write and share their stories. The response has been fantastic. That being said, if you have a story you would like to share and didn’t hear from me yet, I would love to hear from you.

Our special needs kiddos (and adults) are inspiring and they should be celebrated. I hope you will join me on my quest to make that happen!

Follow my new page below if you are ready to meet some amazingly inspirational humans.

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