One year ago (minus a day), we launched Evie’s SDR fundraising campaign.  I had worked for hours on her video, picking the best pictures and clips, hoping I was sharing the right message.  I learned to build a website and started my blog.  With the help of Brian, we created our GoFundMe page after we had all the details we needed.  A lot of this was done for a few weeks but we were hesitant on publishing it.

We waited because we were nervous, anxious and worried about any reactions we may get (it is not easy for us to ask for help) and if we were doing the right thing.  We knew deep down this was the right thing to do for Evie’s future but we needed help in order to help Evie.  Sharing all of this was going to open us up to the world and make this all real…that was scary.

October 23, 2017 I published our GoFundMe page to my Facebook and shared it on Brian’s.  Then I left and went out for dinner with my friend.  I was so nervous.  Finally, during dinner I checked my phone and was overwhelmed.  My post had already been shared many times.  People were already donating.  There were so many supportive comments.  I honestly couldn’t believe it and as I type this now it makes me a bit emotional!

So much has happened since that day.  We have been on quite the journey and continue to be on it.  We surpassed our fundraising goal.  Evie had SDR.  We lived in St. Louis for 32 nights.  Evie had her second eye surgery and has completed over 7 months of rehab.  She started school and is growing up right before our eyes.  We have built stronger relationships with friends and family, made new friends, supported others on the same journey and created so many new memories.  What a ride!

We can’t thank you all enough for your support.  We wouldn’t be where we are today without so many amazing and giving people.  We will always be grateful!