Watch out, here we come!

Today was an emotional day, but a good one for sure. Joel and I, with Grace, met with an attorney regarding SSI and Medicaid. He specializes in this range, and a great lady referred us to him. He heard everything I had to say about Grace and our great trip through the medical circle. She still doesn't have a diagnosis, still a "medical mystery". We talked about how I can't have a job outside of the home, she needs 100% supervision and is still totally dependent on us. Emotions arise when talking about all of the things your child can't do. Similar to an IEP meeting. Don't dare talk about things your child is good or excelling at, they will receive nothing. In the midst of the conversation, the attorney picked up his phone, spoke to a woman, hung up and and told us he is going to set up a meeting with an Adams County representative. When I looked up her name, she is actually a State Senator! She has worked as a nurse and would be a great advocate for our family. I am so excited to see what will happen with our case, not to mention, the attorney isn't charging us for anything. As I walked out of his office, the tears came, tears of relief, tears of joy, tears. We have someone who is willing to listen to us! The wife of the attorney, who also works with him, stopped me in the hall, asked if he was taking us on, I replied "yes" and she embraced me with the biggest hug. I told her if nothing can change for us, maybe we can change the rules so someone else won't have to wait four and a half years for someone to listen to them. Maybe we can create new Medicaid laws. I would call it Grace's Law.

reflection

Oh 2012, what a year it has been! My journey with Grace continues, as well, a journey. Day to day is never the same. I think I have her figured out, and then she does something new. This can be a regression or advancement. I have tried finding outlets for myself in the last year or so with trying to be a "normal" mom. I am learning more that this is also a challenge. At the end of the day all I want to do is sleep. Crafting, working out at the gym, reading. The things I love to do are becoming a daily chore. I want me time, but I think that would require getting up around 4 am. Doesn't sound to exciting for me. With Grace staring Kindergarten this fall, I have learned to appreciate quiet, but look forward to her coming home at noon. She is learning so much at school, more social skills than academic, but she loves it! Losing my Grandma to cancer this year has put life into perspective. Something she said that I will always remember, "I'm not afraid to die, I've had a good time". Isn't that what it's all about in the long run? Have fun, enjoy life, don't sweat the little things. Enjoy your time on this planet, for it's only a trial for the great things we have to look forward to in eternity with the Father. I'm looking forward to 2013 and all that it will bring. Instead of a resolution, like others, I have two words that I will be looking forward to learning how to do. Be Still. Be still to listen, learn, and reflect.