Over the past 9 months or so I've been doing quite a bit of outreach (along with my local Sisters) to new parents who receive a Ds diagnosis, and to parents who receive a prenatal diagnosis. For the most part, I just listen. I hear familiar (and some times not-so-familiar) stories, beliefs, fears, and joys. Many times I also answer questions - mostly about Sheridan (and, of course, for those families who are interested I always have pictures to share - he's so flippin' cute that it quickly becomes evident to the families that everything will be ok).
I have truly loved meeting new families, and helping them along that journey from uncertainty to hope. From fear to peace. Some folks' journey is longer than others, some have a meandering path and others have a straight and narrow one. No matter what the journey, I've come to love and embrace it.
My only hope is that through our local outreach, and through blogging, is that we are able to help even one family. Just one family turn the corner from sorrow, regret, helplessness, and grief, to embracing their child who is truly the love of their lives. Toward acceptance, hope, and happiness.
That's why I love this report... a simple testament to how impactful our experiences and stories are to those families who happen by our blogs, or our shopping carts in the grocery store, or our blanket in the park...
Thanks for sharing this report and being such a support to the Ds community. You and your local Sisters you are making a difference. Anybody who experienced the Saving Sofia Crab Feed can vouch for the impact that you are having. Keep up what you are doing, families are being reached.
ReplyDeleteThat's a great story- I read it through tears. If we all spread our joy, only good things can come of it. Do you mind if I link this to my blog too?
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing this report. Makes me smile inside and out. Oh yes, and those happy tears :-)
ReplyDeleteI wish so much that I had been able to talk to someone like you after my son's diagnosis. Maybe it would have been a little easier. It's wonderful what you are doing.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this post and article, Lisa! I was at that conference (not that session) but it was such an inspiring day! I actually handed out my blog address to a few new families. Seems strange to say that, Landon is only 13 months old, one would say I am quite "NEW" myself. I was so fortunate to have a great support system right from the beginning and was so lucky to have found so many of you fellow bloggers.
ReplyDeleteSometimes, in the work field we say, that hands on training is sometimes the best. Who better to reach out to these families than those who have been blessed and live this every day! We must keep on reaching and sharing, like you said, even if we only reach one family!!
That's an awesome report and clearly the author "got it". So glad he's using his voice to share OUR message of hope and love. Thanks, Lisa!
ReplyDeleteOur outreach is very important! And while I am super new to this journey, I love all the people I've met and the support of this community.
ReplyDeleteI think you are doing a great job. I had a prenatal dx and spoke to many people, therapist and several families. We went to visit one family in their home and I talked to a mom with a teenage daughter who helped me so much. Support can make such a difference.
ReplyDeleteLisa, You always share such amazing information. The article gave me chills. Have a Happy Easter! xoxo Andrea
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