Inspiration
But despite the sleepless nights, the chronic stomach pains, the inability to run up and down a field, these things do not stop our daughter from enjoying a full life every day. She rides horses twice a week with the ultimate dream of one day competing in the Paralympic Games. She drives her brothers to school every day. She hangs out with her friends on the weekends. We travel as a family whenever we can. Exposing Jane to life regardless of her abilities, raising her to understand that despite her condition we are very fortunate indeed, these are lessons we have tried to teach all of our children. But the things she has taught us are even more precious; believe in a higher being, keep a smile on your face, do not dwell in the “Why me’s” but treasure the moments that make life worthwhile and memorable. Jane inspires me to be a better person every day, to have more meaningful relationships, not to get caught up in the superficiality of our lives. Having a child with special needs has opened up a world that we feel so fortunate to be a part of. Special needs children teach us what is truly important in life. It is not how many AP courses your child takes, or how many sports trophies they win. Watching your child have
courage and strength to face the world every day with a smile on her face and the will to go on despite what she is battling internally, that is true inspiration and my call to action every day. n
Learn more about the McCollLockwood Laboratory for Muscular Dystrophy on the Carolinas Healthcare website. If you would like to help support the McColl-Lockwood Lab, you can make a donation online.
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