Why I'm grateful for The DIS...

[DrMomof3]

Aside from the obvious things - unparalleled trip planning advice from the only people in the world who love Disney more than I do; help with DIY travel projects that let an arts and crafts challenged individual like myself make autograph books, countdown chains, and homemade activity books for our upcoming trip; and the fabulous podcast that keeps me laughing even on the darkest day - I'm very grateful to this website, especially this week.

My youngest child (age 2) was diagnosed with very mild CP (Cerebral Palsy) on Monday. Even though he's had some significant motor delays, he walks and talks and "looks normal." (He's still well below the normal range for motor skills at his age but the delays are very subtle.) My DH and I have really been struggling with what this all means for him. I have received an unbelievable amount of support here. From people just posting "hugs" and saying that they understand how difficult this must be (and I even feel guilty "complaining" since he is so high-functioning) to suggestions for how a GAC could help him to PMs with personal stories about CP, etc. It makes me so grateful to be able to take part in a community like this.

I know sometimes there are problem threads here and there but that's nothing compared to incredible openness and generosity of spirit of the community as a whole. I just wanted to take the time to say thank you to all the incredible people here who help create this wonderful place! What's truly amazing is that it's not just the "Webmasters" and "Moderators" and "Powers that Be" who make this place great (not to take anything away from the hard work that goes into this wonderful place); it's each and every person who takes a moment to reach out.

So a big THANK YOU!!!

Amanda

PS And I'm sure I'm not the only one who has had an experience like this here!

 

[DisneyKevin]

I've been the recipient of the support this community a few times now and I completely understand what you are saying.

It's an amazing place / thing / feeling.

 

[corky441]

This thing we call the DIS is a family. A disfunctional one at times, but a family in every sense of the word none the less and for those of us who " get it" it's truly a wonderful place filled with friends we'll have forever- even if we never meet

 

[halliesmommy01]

I get exactly what you are saying. I have met some incredible people on this board. Some have become the best friends I could ever ask for. When one if us is down the others lift them up. They get me, when even my family doesn't seem too.

 

[*NikkiBell*]

 

[DrMomof3]

Glad I'm not the only one! I've received more helpful information here than anywhere (and I work at a major children's hospital!).

Amanda

 

[wendydarling826]

I agree one hundred percent. I began reading the Disboards before our first trip to WDW in 2002, and for the first couple of years I came here primarily for information, travel tips etc. Over time, though, it's become much more, and I feel a real connection to this community. Like a family, we may not always agree, but what we share and have in common is so much more important than what separates or divides us. This community means a great deal to me.
I wish the very best for your son - he is blessed to have such a wonderful Mom.

 

[paulasillars]

I love this community and I have met some amazing people that I'm truly grateful have come into my life.

The Dis keeps me going through the times between Disney trips too. We don't get to the parks as often as we'd like due to the distance so I consider the Dis my support group

I'm constantly amaze at the generosity and levels of support that people in this community give to others. We are very lucky to have each other.

for you and your families.

 

[DrMomof3]

Thank you!!!!
It's great to have so much support from people who wouldn't even recognize me on the street! It just shows how amazing human compassion is!

Amanda