Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

Being a mom means witnessing my children grow together in love and support. Despite challenges, like my 2-year-old's autism, every milestone is a triumph we celebrate. My oldest teaches her patience, while her younger sister encourages her to explore. The joy of seeing them nurture each other reminds me daily of the strength and resilience of our family bond. These moments of connection are my greatest reward.

What is one memory of your kids that you will never forget?

After losing two children, I never thought I would have another baby, let alone two, just 17 months apart. The moment my family brought my older children to meet their newborn sister was unforgettable. For the first time since my loss, I felt a sense of completeness and joy, surrounded by the love of my children. That day symbolized hope and healing in our family journey.

What would you do with $20,000?

If I had $20,000, I would prioritize experiences that foster my 2-year-old's development, like a trip to explore nature and visit state parks. I would allocate funds towards our forever home, and specialized therapies. Additionally, I would attend the Documenting Hope conference to further my advocacy work through the SOAR project. This involvement allows me to contribute to improving early intervention for future families, transforming our journey into positive change.