Show Your Hope!

8 years ago today, Sasha entered this world unexpectedly – with a fierceness that would shake and embrace our hearts forever.

From the moment she took her first breath, Sasha has always played by her own rulebook.

She was supposed to be ‘perfectly healthy’ – but instead, she was critically ill…doctors scratching their heads – baffled by the unexpected situation on their hands. We were told that they didn’t know why she was so sick, they couldn’t promise us they could fix it, and that we were in the best place for her.

Little did we know that this was just the beginning of our journey through peaks and valleys with her.

I can’t even begin to describe the fear that takes over your heart – squeezing and crushing you with every beat – when you’re faced with ‘the unknown‘ and you find yourself holding on to every shred of hope that comes your way.

But Sasha…she became my lesson in faith, perseverance, and strength.

SHE became MY teacher…

There’s no denying that Sasha has been through hell and back….that she has experienced more in her short life than any human being should endure in an entire lifetime…yet this little soul shines joy, courage, and love.

Ralph and I have done our best to find the best, most compassionate and brilliant team to walk with us on our journey with her, and we are incredibly grateful for their dedication, candor, and willingness to help Sasha thrive, blossom and grow to be the sweet little girl that she is today.

Over the years, Sasha has certainly had her rough times…

And while we can’t escape them…

Or deny them…

We have found our way through them….

We’ve grown from them…

And Sasha has taught us SO MUCH about what is really important through it all.

But there’s more to Sasha than the ‘tough times‘

And THAT is what we focus on…

THAT is what we celebrate…

THAT is what we hold tightly to…

Between the fierceness and the fragility, Sasha has blossomed…shined…and become the most precious ray of light this world has to offer.

Sasha has taught me to be courageous, even in my own fear.

She has taught me to be patient, even in my frustration.

She has taught me to be strong, even in my weakness.

Sasha has taught me to find the hope…even when I feel hopeless.

While I would never wish her journey on another soul, Sasha’s life is a testament to how joy can exist – flourish, and shine through even the darkest night.

Today, and every day – I celebrate the true gift that Sasha is, not only to Ralph, Will and I….but to this world.

Happy Birthday to my Fire and Flowers….to my precious sunshine….to the most fierce bit of sweetness I will ever know.

Love and Light,

Stefani