To the parent of the newly diagnosed child,

I see you.
I see you curled up in the fetal position in the corner of your dark room.
The rest of the world is busily shuffling outside with smiles and laughter.

I see you with your swollen eyes and your heart ready to explode at any second.
I feel your anxiety, I breathe your sadness.
I know how it feels when the specialists words echo in your mind over and over.

The echo of the diagnosis is deafening.

You wish that it was a horrible dream.
I know what it feels like when your whole world has shattered.
Everything is black.

It feels like you are alone, and right now,
honestly
you want to be.

I will tell you I will be here for you when you are ready. I will be here to walk this difficult yet rewarding road. We will navigate together.

However, In the meantime, I will sit here with you in the dark.

But please promise me you’ll look up and see the light from the crescent moon and know that the luminescent beauty still exists.

Love,

A parent who has been exactly where you sit.