This was written by the mama of Isabelle, the night before she was heading off to college at Elmhurst College. Izzy is one of our 2017 Rockin’ Recipents and is killin’ it in her first year (more on that later!) I love the strength that both Isabelle and her mama have in their hearts. I hope I have her strength when it’s time to let Ruby spread her wings and fly!!
“August 22, 2017 – was the night before we were bringing Isabelle to College. I couldn’t sleep – thoughts flying around in my head – did we pack everything on the dorm list – have we signed and handed in every form – have we prepared Isabelle for this next step?
Then it struck me, on this night 18 years ago, I was still pregnant with Isabelle.
Isabelle was our first baby, after 10 years of being a couple. With that came the endless time to think, plan and dream about who she would be. We talked a lot about where she would go to college. We had thousands of various versions of who she would be, what she would become, the impact she would have on the world. Oh, places she was going to go!
August 31, 1999 – Isabelle was born. Our hearts exploded with pure joy! Ten days later, Isabelle was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. We found ourselves under water – struggling with our new reality. All at once, dreams were replaced by doctors, therapists and education interventionist.
Yet, on this night there, I sat, marveling at what an amazing and life changing ride it has been. Our daughter is off to college. Just like we always dreamed. Isabelle forged her own path in life. The influence she has had on those around her and the world at large, has been inspiring to be a part of. Our dreams have been replaced by Isabelle’s goals and achievements.
August 23, 2017 – The day we take Isabelle to college. We load everything into her dorm room, set up it all up, meet the new roommate and floor friends, complete a day of campus activities, we stand in front of Isabelle’s resident’s hall waiting for her to let us in. Isabelle turns to us and says, “You can go now – I’ve got this.”
Our hearts swell with pride as tears stream down our faces.
Oh, the places she is going to go!”
Yes, Izzy…the places you will go!! We are so proud of you!!