love and support

There have been so many wonderful friends and family who have offered words of encouragement, prayers and support during the last six months. You all will never know how much that means to us. We weren't always able to answer the phone, return the text or email back, but it doesn't mean the message wasn't received and appreciated.

In the beginning, it was tough emotionally to answer the phone or respond with a text. We were going through so much and I found it easier to isolate. As time has gone on, I've been coming out of my shell more. I'm more willing and able to talk about what's going on. I'm more willing and able to have visitors. But there's also this deficit of time that it makes it tough to return every call, text, email. . .or to make it to every event or social gathering. There just isn't enough time in the day to work, maintain a household, eat, pay bills, clean, exercise Daisy and care for this sweet (albeit very demanding) child of ours. So to those of you who don't hold that against me, thank you! Right now I'm probably giving a little less to our relationships than you are, but that's the way it has to be. And I know the strong relationships will survive and flourish.

I also have a whole new set of "friends" whom I've never met in person all around the world. These are the ladies (and some men) who are experiencing the same (or similar) challenges as we are. To this group, I am eternally grateful. You ladies offer advice and knowledge deeper and better than the best doctors we've seen. Walking in the footsteps of the paths you have forged gives me hope for the future. Your children are beautiful, your stories inspiring and your spirits lift me up in my darkest hours.

And finally, for those who ask what you can do to help us. It's simple. It's less about the physical things, although we always enjoy a visit or a homemade meal or both! It's just being there through the thick and thin. We are doing better every day, but we still have a long road. Don't give up on us. Keep sharing the love, support and words of wisdom. We need that more than anything. I know it's tough to relate to what we are going through. We don't expect you to. But giving us your unconditional love through a simple phone call, text or email means so much.

With that, I'll leave you with a recent photo of our sweet girl.