Today was Lola's year-end celebration at school. Deannie rehearsed and practised, practised and rehearsed so that Lola could participate in the songs and ceremony. It was a big deal. Lots of patience, waiting, following instructions - and you know what? She did great. Lola, that is - well, Deannie did great too, but this is Lola's blog. :) It's hard to put into words what I felt at that ceremony. I was afraid that Lola would have a seizure when she was supposed to be having fun and celebrating. It felt odd to be the parent of the special needs child - to see my child pitied. That part was difficult. But you know what - there was far more kindness and genuine smiles from all those people as well. It didn't erase the fact that no, my child wasn't singing the songs, nor participating in the actions - but what got me through the tough parts was Lola. Lola with her shining persona - highlighting the moment for me, Deannie, and Dora. I'm so incredibly proud of her. So truly, very proud. She smiled, loved the applause, and everything was okay! We tried to hide in the back so that Lola wouldn't see us. At one point, she scanned the crowd, through the 6 or so rows deep of audience, and set her sights on Dora. She wasn't happy at all, but she worked it out with Deannie's help. She spotted me too - and this just cracked us up. She was so mad. At one point in the morning, the kids all filed in one at a time to get their diplomas, so Lola had to walk right by us. That didn't work so well, and she got right into my lap and gave me big kisses. So I held her hand as she went up to get her certificate. She got a pretty big applause from the crowd. I remember a time in a patient-care conference, where Steve, through tears, asked the team of doctors, "Will she ever go to school?" So now we have our answer.
Lola, you are incredible. I love you with everything I have. I've never been so proud. xo
p.s. she stole a little boy's rice krispie square with cat-like ninja reflexes - I wrestled her to the ground before she put it in her mouth. Good times.
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