On July 31, 2016 while we were on our family vacation in Disney World my 16 month old daughter Brooklynn suffered a stroke. Before my daughter, I was never even aware that a child could have a stroke. But, that suddenly became our reality. It was a balancing act those first few days.
While I was in the hospital with Brooke, my husband made sure our other 3 children, my sons Will (11), daughter Abby (7), and Brooke's identical twin sister Shelby were shielded from what was happening. He ensured our kids still had an enjoyable vacation despite all he knew was happening. It’s what you do as a family, you just work as a team.
Thankfully, Brooke continued to amaze the doctors and we were able to go home. Once we returned home and settled into a new routine, I began doing what anyone would do and I started searching the internet for anything related to children and stroke. I came across the Pediatric Stroke Warriors and their website. I read about their Warrior Bags and Brave Box Program and I thought it would be so perfect for Brooke. When we received that Brave Box it was such a wonderful gift not only to Brooke, but our entire family!
Will mailed letters and he asked me to post his letter to Facebook. He collected donations from our friends, family, teachers at school, and fellow twin moms. He worked so hard and it was absolutely inspiring to see him share about his sister and about what this Box meant to our family. When he had finished collecting donations, he had collected well over $600 for the Brave Boxes and Bags!
Will wanted to help make a difference and help bring a smile to a child's face, and he succeeded! He is aware how difficult this has been at times for our own family and for Brooke. We celebrate how much Brooke is progressing, every day she improves more and Will is her biggest cheerleader, and I am the proudest mom!
Learn more about Our Warrior Bags & Brave Box program