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The room was cheerfully decorated with Sesame Street characters and bright colors. Andrea had made sure every detail was just right for her little boy’s second birthday. It was a special, long-awaited day. After two years of intense health issues and continual medical concerns that lead this darling family of three to hunker down and live month-to-month, this would be Donovan’s “coming-out party.” A chance for him to finally meet more of his family and friends, people who have been rooting for him since before he was born.

I have known Andrea since grade school. She, Mike, and I went to high school together.  Andrea is one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met, and her journey into motherhood has been both a heartbreaking and inspirational one. Due to a severe case of pre-eclampsia, Donovan was born when Andrea was in her 26th week of pregnancy. Against all odds, and after an 8-month NICU stay, Donovan has grown and thrived, earning him the nickname “Strong Fighter,” and the love and respect of hundreds of people from across the country. He has certainly held a special place in my heart since day one…I’m unabashedly a big fan! I feel a very special bond in motherhood to Andrea. Although our heartache and victories have been different, we understand each other’s joys and sorrows on a different level. She was incredibly supportive of me and Mike in our darkest hours last year, and I was beyond thrilled that the stars aligned for Mike, Ellie, and I to celebrate with her, Josh, and Donnie last weekend.

Andrea and I had big ideas for the photos I wanted to take for her. For the memories we would capture on this special day. Unfortunately, as both Andrea and I know all too well, “the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” The night before the party, Donnie came down with a cold. Uncertain of how the cold would progress. Andrea and Josh deliberated whether to cancel the party. In the end, they decided to keep their plans. Donovan was a trouper, taking in all of the party flare, greeting his biggest fans, posing for a few photos. Look at that smile that he mustered for mommy! It may have been the only one of the day, but it was beautiful, and I’m so thankful I was there to capture it. After an hour or so, mommy and daddy made the call to bring him home so he could rest.

It was definitely the right call, and I’m happy to report that everyone’s favorite Strong Fighter is back on his feet and smiling again today. It was amazing to meet him, to catch up with Andrea and Josh, and to be part of the love that swirled through that room.

Andrea recently had a beautiful article about her family’s journey published on The Mighty. (SO AWESOME.) I want to share the link HERE with you with the hope that Donnie, Andrea, and Josh bring you as much perspective and inspiration as they bring me. They are the gold stars that have been warming my heart all week.