"Like they are my own"

Leanne Menzo
Jul 29, 2016
3 min read

JULY 29, 2016

Dear Addie

"I love them, like they are my own".

This is a phrase I've heard a lot of people say, generally from moms who are referring to their friend's children.

One of the first things we were told when we learned of your diagnosis was find a good support system. "You'll need it!" they would say.

Well, let me tell you sweet girl, we have been blessed with the best there is!

We have friends that keep toys around their house instead of donating them, just because you love them. They will stash pink squares (starbursts) away if they are out with us just in case you need them. They will even barricade their front doors in their homes when we're visiting in case you decide that it's time to leave and go exploring. They come hang out with us at our house because they know it's less stressful for you....and maybe a little easier on your mom and dad as well.

We have met so many friends along this journey (all of which are absolutely priceless and so very special to us), but this week we got to spend some time with a friend (and her family) that I'd like to tell you a little bit about and how she has truly embraced this adventure with us!

This friendship began when your big sister Clara and my friend's oldest daughter (that has the most beautiful blonde curls that would make Goldie Locks jealous) became best friends in 3yr preschool many years ago. Gabe was instant friends with her little sister and years later we would both welcome our 3rd blessings (that's you my dear) into the world, making us a giant party of 10 anywhere we went!

As the years went on (and we moved from state to state), she... with her family drove hours, sometimes even days to visit us. They came to see us in NY multiple times - even spending holidays and birthdays together, and they even ventured all the way to Texas battling July heat and mosquitos!

Fun fact: she was even there as we were packing our moving truck in NY headed to TX! What a great friend!

She always would tease mom and dad by saying that we needed to provide a disclosure when meeting new friends telling them to "be warned we will leave you" - because we moved so many times!

But she refused to let this be true! Even though we moved, she always remained close to us and always had a passion for connecting with YOU my love.

She watched you grow. Witnessed your challenges and accomplishments. She's always been one of your biggest supporters and mommy's too!

She loves you, like you are her own.

When things actually looked like moving back to NC was a reality, she was there to welcome us with open arms! I've seen her eyes fill with tears when you finally said her name. I promise you, the excitement she gets when you play and engage with her is just pure joy to witness. My heart melts a thousand times over. Because...

She loves you, like you are her own.

Nobody ever said motherhood or parenthood rather was easy and I truly understand what "it takes a village" means now.

So we are beyond blessed to have "Miss Susan" in our village Addie, because she loves you, like you are her own.

You are loved.