Today, I wanted to address a topic that is close to my heart: mental health. It may seem strange since this blog is for now essentially for myself and not yet shared with anyone. At some point there will be a dedicated page about mental health and my journey since Iz was born, I wanted to share a recent experience that left me feeling unsettled.

During the school run, I encountered a mother I am not very familiar with. Despite our limited interactions, she asked about Iz’s well-being and if she had undergone all her surgeries. I shared the ongoing medical challenges facing Iz and spoke about my uncertain return to work due to her lifelong condition and unpredictable future.

After the conversation, I couldn’t shake off a sense of vulnerability and discomfort. I felt like I was exposing Iz’s private life, raising concerns about her autonomy in the future. What if she prefers her medical issues to remain confidential? What if my son faces ridicule because of his sister’s condition? These worries clouded my mind, leaving me anxious. I later confided in my husband about these feelings.

Upon reflection, I realized that the essence of my blog is to foster discussion and awareness about invisible disabilities like Iz’s. My aim is to destigmatize these topics and create a more inclusive environment for families in similar situations. By sharing our story, I hope to contribute to a world where children like Iz are embraced and supported wholeheartedly.

As challenging as it may be to confront the uncertainties and fears that come with Iz’s condition, my love for her means I cannot look away. Although the process of educating myself can be completely overwhelming, my determination to improve Iz’s quality of life drives me forward. Through this blog, I hope to process my experiences, gain as much knowledge about Iz’s condition as possible, and support her in navigating the complexities ahead and if in turn that helps others on similar journeys that would be amazing.