Spina Bifida Holiday Party

I am often amazed at the courage children have. Tonight, I was reminded of that. We had the opportunity to attend a Christmas party for families with children who have Spina Bifida. The party was hosted at the Center for Puppetry Arts here in Atlanta. It was a magical experience.

Most people would never know that our Madilyn has Spina Bifida. She has a rare form of it that is in a class of its own called Lipomyelomeningocele. She is neurologically sound and has limited damaged to her bowels and bladder. She does have significant nerve damage to her right leg from her knee down to the tip of her toes. Yet, no one would ever know. She is amazing. She is like our own Energizer Bunny. She keeps on going no matter what.

Tonight there were children just as happy as our Madilyn. Their faces were bright and their spirits soared as they looked at the Jim Hensen puppets. Big Bird was my favorite. Oh, to be a child. I was reminded how fortunate we are as a family. We have been through alot with three surgeries this past year. But, Madilyn can walk. She can run. She can rider her scooter. She is a miracle. There were many children we saw who will never have that experience because of Spina Bifida.

I ran into Renee, a lady I met at a financial seminar for families with children who have Spina Bifida. She was laughing and smiling. She told me she was laughing because if she didn't she would start crying. I have learned that, behind every face there is a story. Their business failed in June and they have used almost everything in their 401k to survive. It's almost gone and they are about to lose their coverage for their son who has Spina Bifida. He is the cutest little boy and he is in a wheel chair. Her husband has two job interviews next week. They are praying something will come through. We shared each others pain as we talked about our children. Our priority in taking care of their needs. We laughed to keep from crying.

In that one moment, I was reminded how fortunate we are. Vince is a teacher and has a good job. We have insurance, it may not pay for everything but we have it. We have a house that is warm and we still can put food on our table. Our children may not have all the material things they want but they are loved. We are blessed beyond measure.

I am so thankful for those who plan such wonderful events for families with Spina Bifida! Tonight I will say an extra prayer for Renee and her family that the Lord Bless them and keep them safe and warm.