Naila’s Birthday

“Ever since I found GiGi’s playhouse, almost 2 years ago now, it has meant so much to me and my family. When I walked in for the first time, with my youngest child just a few weeks old, I was terrified about the unexpected diagnosis. I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know what I needed to know. I didn’t know who to turn to. I didn’t know what GiGi’s was about. From the moment I walked in, it felt magical. I immediately knew this was a place that would be a big part of our journey.

GiGi’s playhouse is a place of community, support, education; everything you could ever want or need while raising a beautiful child with down syndrome. Having such amazing classes and community- free of cost – is one of the biggest blessings here in Charlotte. Some cities don’t have this, or parents will have to commute far for a GiGi’s, and we have one right here in our own city.

The first year of Naila’s life was filled with unexpected obstacles, some that we did not see coming. I reached out to people I met at GiGi’s many times, and every time they met me with so much support and information- the two things I need most in times of crisis. I took Naila to classes, LMNOP, the new caregiver support group, and not only did I learn so much, but I also just felt like we belonged. Being able to bring her siblings (6 and 4 at the time) also means so much to me. Not only is it a place for individuals with down syndrome, but it is also a place for their entire family. And this is really important to me, because I’m still raising two other children in addition to my sweet Naila.

On Naila’s first birthday, we chose to celebrate with a party at GiGi’s playhouse. It felt like the perfect way to celebrate her first year – a year where she overcame many medical battles, a year where we learned how much GiGi’s meant to us, a year that I truly survived, in part with the help of the GiGi’s community. The only gift I wanted was donations for GiGi’s. It felt like the best way to celebrate Naila and give back at the same time – to a place that has been such a rock in our journey in so many ways. This year, she turned two, and although I didn’t throw her a party, we raised money with friends and family again for GiGi’s. It feels like the best way to celebrate what a blessing Naila is to us, while supporting the organization that has continued to support us through so many ups and downs in Naila’s short, but full life. I’m so thankful for the friends and family that contributed to GiGi’s as a way to celebrate Naila – in my eyes, it’s the gift that keeps giving. Donations to support GiGi’s so that GiGi’s can continue to make the world a better place. We are so thankful for everyone at GiGi’s – from the staff, volunteers, to the amazing families we have met. Every single person there has impacted our life in a positive way, often when we need it most.”