The motto “It takes a village” was popularized by Hillary Clinton, though she certainly did not coin the phrase, nor did it apply to her life raising Chelsea in the White House. For parents with children with developmental disabilities, it certainly does take a village or at least some awesome relatives and fantastic friends.
This does not always mean that these adults are only around when your child is in the ER because of a high fever with the possibility of a seizure. Sometimes it’s easier to be around for the emergency events. It’s very clear when they occur. What’s less clear are the more positive events when the parents need family and friends around to share in the joy of the special needs child. Believe me, there are joyful moments and to feel the joy sharing is vital.
The fashion show at Isabella’s school is one such event. This year, every person who I invited via email responded yes. Our virgin attendees were my father’s brother and his wife — Uncle Don and Aunt Joan. It was especially meaningful to have them at our table because they have 9 grandchildren of their own…and because my children no longer have maternal grandparents.
Simply sharing the evening with my aunt, uncle, sister, sister-in-law, college roommate, Isabella’s godfather, a friend, my eldest daughter and her BFF, Isabella’s twin brother, and my husband made the joy of watching Isabella walk down that runway all the more joyful. And I have to turn away my BMF (best mom friend) and Isabella’s Annie Sullivan.
Thank you to my little village.
11 Comments on “It takes a village”
Hi Laura,
This is lovely. Isabelle looks beautiful! Thanks for telling your stories.
Liz
Best wishes, very tough road, thank goodness you’re tough.
Hi Laura:
A wise girlfriend once said, “No one knows your child better than you do.” Isabella is lucky to have you for a mom.
Much love to all of you,
Mona
Thanks for sharing.
thank you, Laura. I love your writing and I love hearing about life with Bella. The fashion show sounds like great fun; do you have any pictures? love to all & keep on blogging! L&K, H&H, Nance
I just went back a year in the blog & read about last year’s fashion show; lots of growing in the meantime!
Laura,
Everytime I read you blog, I cry. It is so genuine and from the heart. Isabella is lucky to have such a terrific mother. Keep doing what you’re doing.
So glad that you have this blog! You are an amazing person and a determined mother. This information will help others, too…Thanks for sharing!
Glad to be part of your village!
Laura:
Over the years I have come in contact with an ad hoc, fraternal group who have the strength to share the burden of their struggles — disabilities, illnesses and losses. You have found the strength to see the good aspects of carrying the cross, to embrace it and inspire others. I respect you the more as a friend for your courage.
Best, George
I enjoy keeping up with Bella…………. Please keep blogging.