Dear Chloe,
I vividly remember the moment you were born. It all happened so fast that the nurses weren’t ready and the doctor didn’t even make it on time! I kept telling Daddy to get off the phone (he was calling Nana with an update)! We had tears of joy from the excitement and tears of laughter from the chaos – both at the same time! We couldn’t wait to see what you looked like, who you looked like, if you had hair, how much you weighed, etc. When I finally held you for the first time, I realized I had everything I ever wanted in my life.
Your first year has been remarkable, memorable and nothing short of a true blessing. I am so proud to have a strong and brave little girl! Watching you change and accomplish so much over the last year has been a dream come true. Your personality and quirks are one of a kind! You are a quick learner and are so curious! I love watching you explore and learn. Each day is a new adventure and I enjoy every moment. You’re my Chloe-cakes, and there’s nowhere else I’d rather be than at home, playing on the floor with you.
Watching you fight to survive your CHD has made me a better person. Being by your side every step of the way has taught me so much about myself. I’m definitely more educated on the anatomy of the heart (and less on hollywood gossip!). And I’m still as stubborn and strong-minded as always (just ask your nurses!). But I realize now that I used to endlessly worry and stress about silly little things that, at the end of the day, really didn’t matter. I’ve finally learned to let the negative, energy-draining things go. I’m now more realistic, less dramatic. More patient, more thankful and more grateful. I forgive more, explain less and regret nothing.
I finally feel as though I have a specific purpose in life. I feel like I was always meant to help raise awareness about heart defects and be there for other CHD families. And I not only feel, but know, that I was always meant to be your Heart Mommy.
Thank you for finding and choosing me. You have brought a peace and completion to my life that I have never known. I’m already the Mommy I’ve always hoped I could be. I love you unconditionally, with every beat of my heart and every inch of my soul.
Happy 1st Birthday!
XOXO,