Surrounded

At the risk of sounding cliche, I must admit I am humbled beyond words after our weekend.

Another constant in the world of having a daughter with a significant disability is the feeling of loneliness and isolation that can overwhelm you. Early on, I shut people out, and much like my daughter, I found I just couldn't connect. I was angry, astoundingly sad, and drowning in a world I never wanted to belong too. Hours turned into days, days into weeks, weeks into months... and now I find myself a few years wiser and a few years stronger... all because of a journey I never wanted to travel.

But I am not alone.

The network of friends I have somehow maintained, and even formed recently, is like a pillar of strength, a blanket of security and love, and an ARMY of strength.

They stayed with me. They see beyond disability. And they have found a way to relate to me and my family, love us in our darkest hours, and lift us up when we feel too weak to stand.

Saturday, November 14th 2009 was the "DFW Walk Now for Autism Speaks." I formed a team because my daughter deserves more. I wrote a blog about it. It was one more small way I can help be her voice. And we were not alone.

An ARMY of supporters donated money and even more took time away from their lives to drive all the way to Arlington, Texas to walk with us. To surround us with their encouragement, friendship, hope, and understanding. They lifted us up, and gave Avery a gift she may never understand, but will benefit from her entire life.

We are extraordinarily grateful that you have stuck with us. That you let go of your own agenda, and for a moment, gave my family your strength and avidity. We are forever beholden, and truly blessed to be surrounded by such magnanimous and devoted friends and loved ones.