United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Julia,

Although my little one is almost 2 years old, I feel that I have gone through a lot and have come to understand too that she will never be hole and I have to accept that. It hurts to see her this way but she is a very determined little girl and nothing has been an obstacle for her so far. I wish you the best in college and the same for Josh. I'm sure you will feel great about yourself when get your Masters!!!

Oh my God thats just how I feel Frankie is starting 10th grade and will be 16 in Feb and I think back to all the sleepless nights I worried so about will he have friends will he be picked on will he have a girlfriend will he be safe away from me and like you said he made it just fine. he takes his practice SAT in Oct and wants to go to Rutgers University so I figured I would go too. Just kidding but yes letting go even when you know they are more then prepared is going to be the hardest thing for me. he too is my only. I do have a stepson that did his 4 yrs in collage and is now back home but its different I think with kids that have bpi since you spend so much time caring for them and when they no longer need the care you feel lost. Mare

Congratulations Julia for going back for a Masters degree.

Carolyn J

Julia,
Oh boy, I sit here and read and can just imagine me writing similair words in 7 years. I understand and want to congratulate you for doing something for you !!! You deserve it.
GAYLE

Julia,

Josh will always "need" you--that need will just take on a different role. He also needs to become independent.

You and Scott have done such a great job of raising a great young man!

Besides, I'll always need you I'll be cheering you on for your degree! YOU GO GIRL!

I don't know how to tell you all this BUT...

Your children always need you - They just need you in different ways a they mature and grow. That's what raising children is all about. We are suppose to give them WINGS and they are suppose to soar like Eagles!

They always return to the nest... Just think of how many times you have all felt you needed your Mommy.
I lost my Mom when I was 28 and I am 68 now and have had many times when I wished she was here with me...

So don't get depressed just look at it as your children's great adventure.

I have three children and I cried when they left for school each year. I missed them and college had me blubbering beyond belief. How could I let my babies live with strangers. Now they are older and two are married and all have their own homes. I really need a revolving door for my new Condo... They are always around and bring the best gifts of all grandchildren.

It goes by very fast but my mother gave me a very big gift... She gave me Wings and told me "The best way to hold on to your children, is with an open hand".

Dry your tears Julia and look to your future. Josh is a fine young man and he will do well. Let go and he will be fine... You both taught him well and now he is a man!

Also... just could not help it... I am normal and so are your children... we just have had more challenges.
As a result of these challenges we mature early, become creative and determined. These are gifts that serve us well over the course of our lives. I never think I can't do something... I often wonder how will I do it and then get to it!

Kath robpi/adult/68