Clarity

It’s been two years since the Grand Canyon Adventure and I’m still absolutely moved to tears when I think of how many folks, from how many places, came together over one young man’s simple wish. As many of us witnessed, that one wish with it’s a huge butterfly effect, rippled through our whole community leaving an indelible print on so many.

Over the last year, there have been many tough adjustments. AC stopped being able to roll over at night making sleep scarce and sacred for those of us who turn him, Pneumonia came and went with far more serious implications, and our family struggled to adjust to our new normal in regards to his level of care. And Anthony through it all? He continued to flash his huge grin, boss us around, and constantly think of new adventures.

Having four of our kids now in High School, the conversations in our home frequently center on the future. As any DMD parent knows, this topic brings waves of strong emotions no parent wants to have to ride. But in his usual spirit, AC is only briefly sad or fearful. He quickly jumps in and starts asking tough questions with complete abandon for the complexity of the answer. What’s next, Mom? I get to graduate with my friends, right? Where’s my job going to be? What am I going to do that's fun? And (my favorite) how can I get away from Mom?

Trying to prepare our kids to be independent, purposeful and happy is every parents challenge. However, when you have a kiddo with special needs, depending which day you ask, can seem nearly impossible or at the very best, completely overwhelming.

After going another round with the grief cycle, I emerged from the fog with some clarity. I remembered the canyon and the community we built. I remembered how in sharing the load, it become so effortless to carry. I thought of all of the other parents, afraid for their children’s future. Then immediately thought of all the beautiful people who not only want to, but need to help others for their own growth and sanity. I was reminded of the Aspen trees in Colorado. And how thousands and thousands of living breathing trees all share one root, not far below the surface.

We, as a community, like those trees, have ONE SHARED ROOT.

And it was upon that realization, Anthony’s questions suddenly didn’t seem so hard to answer.