It's hard to believe it's been 5 yrs since Kathleen's first stroke, and diagnosis of Moyamoya.It's unfortunate that this place didn't exist at the time because I've come to see how important it is to have this contact with other's going through all that comes after the diagnosis.We were so in the dark and alone.Thanks to DJ and everyone here others don't have to do this alone and in the dark,it's a very lonely place to be.
This is one place that I know parents understand the devestation that comes with the words "your child has suffered a stroke", "and will continue to stroke without surgery" It seems that time may never dull the emotions that followed.It plays over and over in my mind as if it were yesterday.There will be several "anniversaries" over the next few months; her strokes,her surgeries and her fight to come back to who she had been before all of this. Her first words, her first steps,The first time she touched her nose with her left hand etc. etc.Thankfully though it all will culminate into the best one, the day we took Kathleen home from the Rehabilitation Hospital.We knew that since she had made it this far, and had showed us how determinded she was, and she was still our happy, funny,beautiful little girl, that there was no stopping her.She would fight her way back to walking and talking, and that's exactly what she's done and more.A day never goes by that I'm not consciously thankful for eveyone involved in saving Kathleen.Without them, from her neurologist here, to Dr. Scott in Boston, these anniversaries would be much different.This seems like a very appropriate time to also thank everyone here for their support when I needed it ,and for sharing our little "celebratons" along the way.Thank you from me and my HERO.
Mary and Kathleen

Congrats for reaching 5 years!

-Shari

Congurdulations of year 5!!!!!!!
All the Best,
Becky

Hi Mary Grace and Kathleen,

Congratulations on Kathleen's 5 year anniversary.

Kathleen has had to overcome so many obstacles and challenges in her 5 years and she has done a remarkable job of overcoming so much in such a short period of time. Kathleen's positive progression is largely due to the support of a loving and caring family and it shows.

Kathleen is a true inspiration and hero to all.

My very best wishes to Kathleen for many more anniversaries.

Hugs,

Lore

HOORAY for 5 years!! [smiley=sayyes.gif]

You go, Kathleen!!

Mary Grace, I know EXACTLY how you feel - times two!!

So glad to share in the happy times with you!

Love and Hugs,
[smiley=heart.gif] [smiley=hug.gif] [smiley=heart.gif] [smiley=hug.gif] [smiley=heart.gif] [smiley=hug.gif]
Kristen

Your whole family has come such a long way. What a difficult journey....but I am so glad everything is going well.

Congratulations and hugs....Diane

:)Congratulations on 5 years Kathleen & Mary! I know its exciting for you both! Hope all continues to go well!!!

:)Christy