July is Disability Pride Month, a time to honor and celebrate the identities, experiences, and contributions of people with disabilities. It’s a month dedicated to raising awareness, breaking down barriers, and advocating for equality and inclusion.

For the past two decades, my family and I have navigated the intricate world of DDD services for my daughter. We have spent countless hours, day and night, navigating the system to find answers to our questions and trying to determine the best ways to work as a family to allow my daughter to have a fulfilled and joyful life.

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, promoting understanding, and advocating for the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities. This month serves as a catalyst for important conversations and advocacy initiatives.

Dear past self,

You’ve been through some really hard things. Some so profound that you felt like you were watching yourself from outside your body. This happened on February 3, 2018.