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

Getting to watch my children learn, grow and succeed despite the obstacles they have each had to overcome. Being apart of the everyday little magic moments that happen that make up the bigger picture. So many beautiful memories to look back on and so many future memories to be made.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

That it is not easy but it's so worth it. How much patience and grit you will need. It was a difficult journey to become a mother. Doing IVF and embryo transfers three times. Miscarriages. Foster care, and adoption. All the paths were hard. There is pain and trauma with each one. Children are worth those sacrifices that you have to make. They will teach you so much about yourself. What's truly important in this life. Finding beauty in the simple things. Don't overcomplicate things.

What would you do with $20,000?

It has been 18 years this month since I had my kidney transplant at the age of 17. I have to take anti - rejection meds everyday twice a day and the costs are going up. One of my medications discontinued their copay program through the manufacturer. I would like to put some money into savings for the medical costs in my future. I have a cadaveric kidney and I will need another kidney transplant in the not so distant future. Also, debt relief and maybe a house project.