I don't wish this life on anyone...

Last night, a friend called to share that her two-year-old had received a rare diagnosis. When you’ve been in this life for a while, you often get calls like these.

During our call, I listened, shared in her heartache, and offered encouragement. I acknowledged the power of finally knowing, and I spoke about the gift of having my daughter and the love and joy she brings to my life.

When we hung up, I wept.

I wept knowing how much her life had changed. I mourned the heartaches that may come, the sleepless nights, and the fear of the unknown. I know how hard this journey can be and how much work it sometimes takes just to make it through another day. My heart ached for my friend and the reality she was trying to take in.

Disability parenting is not a tragedy, but I still wouldn’t wish it on someone else. I love my daughter, and I love being her mother. I also wish the people I love didn’t have to know how exhausting it can be to wake up every day with more to navigate, more to carry, and more to overcome.

This is why I created 2villages.life: to be there for families navigating this life without guidance; to offer a lighthouse, a shoulder to lean on, a listening ear, and the support of someone who brings a decade of lived experience and professional training to help them find their way.

You don’t have to do this alone.