School Supplies

I was in Target earlier this week and very excited parents were in the school supplies aisles selecting backpacks, pencils, and folders for their children. A mom and her adorable little girl were working on selecting a lunch box. They were checking off items from a list of things she would need for kindergarten. It was such a simple task. But it is one that all parents cherish...and usually shed a few tears over.

I have been shedding many tears this week anticipating the arrival of Waverly's list. Her checklist will be significantly different than most. I am so thankful for her placement. She is going to be in a small class with other moderate to severe special education students who are within a few years in age. She will have a 1:1 assistant to guide her through her day. Her school bus is a little one with an attendant on board and she will be donning her special safety vest.

Her first day of kindergarten is rapidly approaching. And in the midst of the back to school excitement, I cannot help feeling sad. I wish she were a healthy little girl, excited about the new friends she was going to make, what outfit she would wear and which backpack to select. I wish she could talk to me about her nervousness and ask the cute little questions that 5 year olds are known for. I love her for exactly who she is, but I wish she could be who she is supposed to be. A happy little girl, free of this terrible disease.

We have to work to find a cure.