I just wanted to take a minute to stop and thank Denise's family for always sharing her with us all...and for Lacey for introducing us and bringing her directly into our lives.
The thoughts that raced into my mind when I heard that Denise had passed away last month...No. Oh no...not Denise. And then I thought, how rare is it that someone could step into your life and so immediately and foreverimpact your life so proufoundly? This is what Denise did...she gives HOPE for me as a mother, for Kai and for everyone touched by autism.
Although I only met her last year (and how incredible grateful for that I am!), she had already been connected to our family through all of the therapists who had been working with and supporting Kai since we entered the Arizona Early Intervention Program in 2007. Never had I seen one of Kai's therapists literally jump for joy and almost fall out of her chair she was so happy to see Denise walk through our door one day. Hugs and giants smiles of pure joy filled the room...and my heart. A little cheese maybe, but I like cheese...we all need some cheese, and more people like Denise in our lives.
Here is the newpaper article about her and I hope you and I are reminded that sometimes "the system" can work, and sometimes it actually does - because of good people like Denise Kinkade: http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/301242.php
Here's to Denise and here's to HOPE. ~M
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