Since my gorgeous niece Olivia was born on November 31th, my outlook on life has been altered. She has given me something to look forward to. Each cuddle, each smile and each chat (Aunty Jac is always a favourite for having baby chats with) have enlightened my heart with pure joy. I was able to hold her by myself when she was first born and that was pure bliss.
About two weeks ago the men of the family demolished Nan’s shower. My sister Monique (Olivia’s Mum) was in the top room transferring “stuff” (for legal reasons I’m calling it “stuff”) onto Nan’s hard drive. Olivia was asleep in her pram beside me and I took great pleasure of keeping a watch over her. At one point, Olivia stirred so I gently put my hand on the edge of her pram and she grabbed my finger with her little fist. I thought “this is heaven”.
Many people look at people with severe physical disabilities and may automatically assume “you won’t enjoy watching us doing….because obviously you can’t physically do it.” What they don’t realise, just being included is enough! This year my goal is to take my older nieces and nephews to the park just a few doors down. That’s a huge thing because since my chair accident I don’t drive outside the house because of anxiety and pain. BUT, I will do it! Watching them play and just being with them will be a huge honour and privilege.
