In a world where we are bombarded by information, advice, stories, advertisements and the details of what everyone is doing at that given moment... it can be overwhelming. And with social media literally at our fingertips... anything you want to fill your mind with is possible in a matter of seconds. Social media can get a bad rep but for me it is this simple: it can be whatever you make it out to be. And I want to inspire others. But, what I have found is inspiration... everywhere. And true friends.
I want to share some mamas with you that inspire me on a daily basis. And these are just a handful of women that inspire me... there are many more! Their stories are real and raw and moving. They have also had a few words change their lives. They have been faced with difficult decisions. They have had heartbreaks... and they also have triumphs. They are survivors and in my eyes... they are heroes. The one thing they all have in common, they have found happiness and joy regardless of their situation.
They have stepped out into the public eye to share their stories with all of us. That's not easy to do... and they do it to encourage, inspire and open minds. And I thank God for all of these women setting a wonderful example of poise, grace and faith. Meet my friends...
Heather
I want to start with this mama because she is in the middle of a fight. She is fighting to raise money to take her son several states away to see a specialist that has agreed help her son. Cooper was born with achondroplasia (like Lilah) and is currently measuring in the top 95% for head growth on the achondroplasia charts. There is a legitimate concern for hydrocephalus (water on the brain) and the need to see this particular doctor is paramount. She has set up a "go-fund-me" website where anyone can donate to help this cause. If you only read about one of these mamas (no! keep reading!), I wanted it to be this story because they need your help.
In her own words:
Cooper's Go-Fund-Me website
Heather's Blog
Cooper's Crusade Facebook Page
Instagram: heatheryv76
Jade
I haven't known this mama for very long but I feel like our souls have always been connected. This mama is wise beyond her years and has such a calm persona, a nurturing way about her and is such a ray of light-- she brings happiness to all of those around her. She is doing amazing things in the world of advocacy in such a short amount of time! I am so proud of her for teaching others all about dwarfism in the best way possible... by leading with love... not only in her homeland of Australia, but all around the world.
In her own words:
Jade's Website
Floyd-Henry Facebook Page
Women's Weekly Feature
Floyd-Henry's VIDEO
Instagram: jade_audrey_love
Abra
This mama I met via Instagram, but now are lifelong friends. I saw a prayer request sent out by one of my friends in San Diego... turns out this mama is a friend of a friend of a friend. And miraculously... we live an hour away from each other. Let me just say... she has the most incredible, unwavering and real examples of faith that I have ever witnessed. She taught me "you come as you are." She uses her whole self to fulfill His word and purpose for her. I love to watch this mama in action... she's a dreamer like me and she goes after those dreams in full force.
In her own words:
Abra's Blog
Praying For Naomi Facebook Page
Instagram: thegiftoftoday
Tara
This mama is such a go-getter. I mean, I think I don't sleep much... but there is no way she sleeps. She is relentless (in such a good way) in the advocacy that she spreads in Canada and around the world for Down syndrome and for the love of her daughter Pip. I love how she dreams big-- the next thing you know she is on a mission to have Pip on the Ellen Show, she's got a t-shirt line and she's on the news. Oh, that was all within the last few weeks. Last year her daughter was in heart failure. This year, we are in celebration mode over the joy that Pip brings to everyone. I dare you to try not to smile when you look at her picture. Impossible.
In her own words:
Tara's Website
Happy Soul Project Facebook Page
Instagram: happysoulproject
Chelley
Chelley has been a driving force in my journey with dwarfism awareness and education. She is often the words I wish I could say, the determination I wish I had and a huge influence in this movement of equal rights for those of short-stature. She is so passionate about reaching people, raising thought-provoking conversations and standing up for what is right. She is not afraid to show her weaknesses and vulnerability but she is strong as an ox. I am grateful for her.
In her own words:
Chelley's website
A is for Adalaide
Instagram: martinkadeluxe
Beth
I first learned about Beth and two of her beautiful children about a year ago... And I don't know how on Instagram we found each other but I will never forget she said, "I feel like I hit the Instagram jackpot when I found Lilah!" And the thing is... it was me that hit the jackpot by being invited into their lives. I love to watch Coco & Livvy in their everyday happiness. Such joy! So proud of this mama for all she has been through and all she does for those with special needs (and their mamas.)
In her own words:
Beth's Website
Parents Magazine Article
Instagram: lilcocobea
wow, you have quite the circle of amazing women you know. but it takes ones to know one. and lady, you are it. i love your heart so much, you lift up others and encourage them without taking any notice of yourself, even though you deserve it. you are a beautiful soul.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much mama! You have taught me so much in just the way you live your life. You truly are His hands and feet and I learn so much in the little things you do... love you! XOXO
DeleteBeautiful post. Can't wait to check out all these amazing women and be inspired. Found you via Floydy's mama.
ReplyDeleteMe to and I have just spent the last 2 hours reading this spirit lifting blog and following all of these amazing people on instagram. I look forward to spending many more hours reading and looking at your fab pictures.
DeleteJade is to be commended for raising such awareness. Everyone's lives are richer for now being part of all of your lives. Trace X
Well, I am in love with FH and his mama! Thank you for finding us! Much love to you all! XOXO
DeleteVeery creative post
ReplyDelete