October 15th- Emily and Vivian

“It is so hard to believe, but our family will be gearing up to celebrate this sweet girl’s 40^th birthday in a few short months!  Life happens so quickly, and we often forget to take pause and reflect on where we have been and where we are headed.  So, I am hitting that “pause” button today to take a moment to send her an early birthday wish and take this opportunity to share our sister Vivian with you.

In 40 years, Vivian has graduated from high school, tackled living overseas in China, traveled the world, gone hot air ballooning, volunteers in her community, seen countless movies and shows with her friends, hiked mountains, speaks 2 languages, heads to work every day and comes home to a house full of friends at her group home.  And this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Vivian is a loving daughter, devoted sister, doting aunt, fun loving sister-in-law, avid traveler, dancer, artist, animal lover, swimmer, and a believer of true love and Disney princesses.  To me, Vivian is my inspiration, my first companion, and ultimately the one who has shaped my life the most.  She is determined and stubborn and pushes us to be our best versions of ourselves when we are with her.  Vivian is also a homebody who loves family and her church above all else.  Vivian is our teacher, who has taught our family to love big and spread compassion without judgment.

Vivian is so many things – but what stands out most about her is what she isn’t.  Vivian is not limited by a label or her diagnosis.  The world is hers for the taking and I am so excited to see what the next 40 years will bring.  Happy Birthday little sister – we can’t wait to celebrate you!”

– Emily (board member, GiGi’s Playhouse Fox Valley), sister to Vivian

Emily has been a board member at GiGi’s Playhouse Fox Valley since January 2019.  She is also active in Buddy Up Tennis.  Thank you Emily for everything you do!