Life on an Unexpected Road... (*Guest Post*)

Today's guest post is written by one of my good friends. Ashley writes at her blog Momma on a Mission has been married for almost 10 years, has three awesome boys, is a homeschooling momma, hobby photographer, and professional crafter! Earlier this year, Ashley's youngest son was diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis and Ashley has become both a fierce advocate for her son and played an important roll informing the public about the disease. Earlier this year, her youngest son wwas diagnose with juvilnile Arthritis and has taken to her blog to provide awarness and information for parents. To date she has spoken at a recent Arthritis Foundation event and hopes to be more involved with the them in the future. Her hope is to bring more awareness to this disease and provide a place of support and encouragement for other families as well.

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It’s been almost ten months since Monkey was diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis and what a crazy ride it’s been so far. Full of many downs but also full of some great and unexpected highs. We’ve seen the OR room, tiny exam rooms, and needles more than we’d like, but, we’ve also received some nice surprises and met so many kind doctors, nurses, and found many new friends to help us along the way. We’ve even gotten the chance to be a part of some great events and look forward to being part of many more!

I’ve also found that this road is tricky…it’s not straight or clear. There are so many twists and turns and often times you’re in an area where even if there were a parenting GPS you wouldn’t get a signal. I’m fully convinced though that we as parents are given every gift and blessing to parent the children that God gave us. He has equipped us with every tool we need to be the perfect provider, nurse, comforter, and guide for them. This realization has given me faith and strength as we’ve walked down the road of JA. I may not be able to fix everything or make it all better but I know that I am doing my best and that IS best.

So if you and your family are walking down an unknown road leading you places you’ve never been and dealing with a disease or hardship you never expected remember that you were made for this. You alone have what it takes to be a source of strength and love for your babies and your family. Have faith my friend, and when you feel weak remember that there are others out here just like you holding you up and supporting you with prayers and thoughts. xo


(If you or someone you know is seeking a source of support or encouragement please feel free to pass along Ashley's Blog. She is also available via email (mommaonamission@comcast.net) and is more than happy to talk to those who are needing someone to listen.)