Holland

There is a poem called Welcome to Holland that is shared amongst many who have children with disabilities.  The basis of it is that there are people going a trip to what they think is Italy, they want to go to Italy, are prepared and excited for Italy, but somehow end up in Holland.  Holland's not bad, just different that what they expected.  Most people who want to go to Italy, go.  Many of us who ended up in Holland, never expected to go there.  Again, not bad, just different.  It is a metaphor symbolizing that we don't always get perfection in life.  But having a child with a disability doesn't necessarily change life's perfection. 
Last weekend, I had the realization that I really was in Holland, but not alone.  I had the pleasure of having dinner with 4 other moms of children with Spina Bifida.  We discussed the kids differences, their similarities, their challenges and the successes.  We have all had very different experiences with Spina Bifida, but then again every child is different, even ones with out a disability.  At one point during dinner I had a brief moment of sadness that I was amongst these women because of our common bond, only to be over shadowed by the thought that I was incredibly luck to be a part of this group.  I have the support of other mothers.  When I am feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, I have someone there, who truly does understand what I am going through.  I have encouragement on my hard days and cheers on my good days.  I know there are people who aren't in touch locally with other Spinase Bifida families and they struggle.  I know that babies were born with Spina Bifida 20 years ago, before the Internet and weren't lucky enough to have the connections I have today. 

Evan brought us to Holland, and I am a glad to be here.