I am a very proud mother of 2 beautiful girls. My oldest daughter, Emma, will be 15 soon. She is a freshman and involved in Volleyball, SADD, FCCLA & Yearbook committee. She loves horses and finds that after high school she will continue her education in Veterinary field. Emma was diagnosed at age 10 with early onset Schizophrenia. She has taken leaps of progression that so many parents would only dream for. Her progress continues to go well and she is stabilized. She has a heart that most adults cannot fathom and her kindness shows in all her actions. She loves to attend Bible Camp & Horse Camp every summer. Next year she plans on training for Bible Camp counselor. Her dream is to some day own her own horse, which she'd like sooner than later, but she is patient and knows if she works hard enough, she will have it.
My youngest daughter, Madison, is 9 years old and in 4th grade. She is my tomboy and loves to get into rumbles (more than her mother would ever imagine). She's not afraid to speak her mind but at times sees the world in ways that remind me so quickly of her childlike eyes. A view from a childs perspective always puts us in our place, as we age we have taken for granted much of what we see. She likes to draw but dislikes school greatly. Madison is ADHD, Asperbergers, also has anxiety, RLS & panic disorder ( coupled with Separation Anxiety Disorder). So, yes, she can be a handful but is quite a charmer.
With my children's Mental Health issues, I've become quite involved in some different organizations. I am the president/founder of the NAMI chapter in Mower/Freeborn County. I am also a PACER Center advocate ( for parents needing help with their childrens educational needs in schools). I am also a volunteer on the Parent 2 Parent warmline, so that other parents may be connected with me when they need a friendly ear or some advice on where to go, what to do when they find their children diagnosed with mental illnesses, such as the ones my daughters have. I am a huge advocate to try and stomp out the stigma against mental illness. Its a tough battle but the rewards are great. Out of the darkness they can rise and share the sunshine with everyone else.
I love farm life, love my horses and chickens. My glass is 1/2 full and my children feel the same way. We take all of our challenges head on and give it everything we've got.
I'm active in my church as well. Love to sing & dance. Hold my friends dear to me & would do anything in my power and even beyond my power to help those in need.
God has blessed me in many ways and continues to do so, even with my challenging life. I was diagnosed with bipolar 2 years ago and find that even I can have a life, and seek that happiness that will someday follow. God first, my children 2nd, myself last.
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