I usually perform on big stages or in concert
halls but this week I had a very special performance for a little family that
reminded me a lot of my own. M. developed Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension as
a baby and doctors gave her no chance to live. But it's always fun to show
people that miracles are where ever we will look for them and M. is a very
clear reminder of that. Her mom, her twin and little sister are as amazing with
M. as my mom and sisters are with me. They are total rock stars. So we had a
little impromptu performance in their living room to say thank you for being so
amazing.
I know in my life, I have lots of people caring
for me in little and big ways. Mr. One has helped me (and the entire TD clan) with all of the paperwork
I hate for years. Dr. P often serves as my personal medical researcher. My
husband is whatever I ask him to be. My siblings at any given time have
unofficially served as editors, fashion consultants, drivers,
therapists, nurses, maids, cooks, and baby sitters. My mother has
made keeping me alive her top and occasionally only priority since
that life seemed to be in jeopardy. I know that my experience with
illness has changed the dynamic and the cadence of our family life a great
deal. There can be guilt and resentment that very naturally flow from these
things. But I am so deeply grateful that despite everything
my family has not only remained close through these challenges; we've become
closer.
If you've ever been a care taker, had a sibling
or a parent or a family member who suffers with physical, mental or emotional
challenges or illness, please know we really appreciate you. Your patience,
your work, your care and effort. We know we wouldn't be the same (or alive)
without you and we know we're not always the best at showing appreciation for
all that you do. Sometimes it gets annoying to have to be appreciative for
things one would never ask for and never want. But we see what you do for us. We
love you. We are sorry you don't always receive the laurels and praise you
deserve because you are the super heros. You wear all sorts of masks: from
sibling to demanding relative to friend, but you save lives. Your prize is
knowing that someone woke up, someone got out of bed and someone lived a better
life because of you. But make no mistake of it: in our lives, you are the rescuer. You wear
the cape. And for that, you deserve more than a little thanks.
With much love and appreciation,
Two