Thyroid Advocacy for our Children
Hold on, to me as we go
As we roll down this unfamiliar road
And although this wave (wave) is stringing us along
Just know you’re not alone
Cause I’m gonna make this place your home
Settle down, it’ll all be clear
Don’t pay no mind to the demons
They fill you with fear
The trouble it might drag you down
If you get lost, you can always be found
Just know you’re not alone
Cause I’m gonna make this place your home
-Phillip Phillips, HOME
The other day, I was riding down the road listening to Phillip Phillips’ song, Home. I’ve heard the song plenty of times, but that particular day, it struck me that a parent could have written this song to their child. I write mostly about thyroid related issues, but those issues don’t just impact me, they impact my children. My children’s battle with thyroid disorders is what motivates me to write and to advocate. Today, I wrote this letter to my sons based on the lyrics of this song. I wrote it for both of them, but addressed it to “my son” with the hopes that they could each read it and know that it was written just for them. My children have thyroid disorders, but have other challenges as well that sometimes make their lives tough (not unlike most children). I know that I’m not always the best cook, the best lunch maker, and definitely not the best housekeeper (okay – I’ll be honest – I’m not good at any of the “traditional” mom stuff), but one thing I know for sure is that I am my children’s best advocate. No matter what the journey ahead may have in store for them, I want them to know that they are not alone.
Dear Son,
I love Phillip Phillips and have listened to his music plenty. Recently, I listened to the lyrics to “Home” as we drove along, probably on our way to or from tennis. Have I told you lately how proud I am of you? I love watching you play tennis. This song, though, honey, it reminds me so much of my journey with you, my sweet son. These are the words I tell you daily. It’s okay – I’m going to help you. I’m going to hold your hand. I’m going to walk this journey with you. I’m going to roll down this unfamiliar road with you, and together we will figure it out. I’m not going to let you be alone. Settle down, honey, it will all be clear. One day, this journey will make sense and it will all be clear. I know it’s tough, but already you are making your mark on the world. I believe that God put you here to walk this journey, because you are going to make a difference. I believe it with every fiber of my being – you, my son, have been called. Don’t ever let anyone tell you otherwise. Don’t let your fears stop you or hold you back. It’s okay to admit you are scared, though. Honestly, I am too. This is all new to me as well. Together, we will conquer those fears and anything that stands in your way. If you get lost along the way, I’ll find you, I promise. I’ll be your home, your base, your safe place, and I’ll help you be the best man that you can be. Know – always – that you are NOT alone. I will be your best advocate, your loudest cheerleader, and your biggest fan. Anytime you question that, you just listen to that song or you read this letter again. Being your mom is the most precious gift, opportunity and job I’ve ever been given. Nothing, absolutely nothing, means more to me than you. I love you.
Love always,
Your Mom
By Blythe Clifford
