Diagnosis Day

When speaking with parents of children with special needs about the day they received their diagnosis, you often hear a tapestry of stories woven with a range of emotions. Some parents can vividly recall the exact date, while others celebrate that day after years of relentless searching for answers. I fall somewhere in between.

April 28, 2016—our diagnosis day—arrived unexpectedly, like a sudden downpour on a sunny day. While I can't remember the weather or the exact words my doctor used, one thing remains clear in my memory: the overwhelming sense of numbness that engulfed me. As I drove home, everything outside faded into a blur. I stared out the passenger window, watching birds land gracefully on the telephone wires lining the street. Their movements stood in stark contrast to the turmoil inside me.

Reflecting on that day, it's evident that many parents experience similar emotions. This shared journey of navigating the unexpected creates a bond that unites us. I distinctly remember the moment when my mindset began to shift: the instant I met Mira. As I gazed into her eyes for the first time, I made a promise to her: I would do everything in my power to provide her with the best life possible, to protect her, and to advocate for her.

April 28th is the day I reflect on that promise I made to Mira.

Receiving a diagnosis, regardless of its nature, can transform your life. It brings a mix of emotions along with such a significant change. We have shared joyful moments filled with laughter and love, alongside challenges as we navigate an uncertain future. Through it all, I choose to focus on embracing each milestone with a heart full of hope.