Hope, Healing, and Faith
As parents, watching our daughter Emily go through the challenges of PANS has been incredibly heart-wrenching. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, from confusion and fear to relief and hope. We never imagined that our lives would take this unexpected turn, but through it all, we have learned so much about resilience and the strength of the human spirit.
Before PANS, Emily was a vibrant and active child. She had a love for life and a contagious energy that drew people towards her. Seeing her laughter and joy suddenly replaced by tremors and seizures was devastating. My husband and I stood by her side, holding her hand through countless doctor's visits, hoping for answers that seemed just out of reach. It was frustrating to witness our daughter suffer and be met with confusion from medical professionals.
When Emily finally received a diagnosis of PANS triggered by Lyme disease and mycotoxins, it was both a relief and a challenge. We had the validation we craved, but now we faced the uphill battle of finding effective treatment. As we navigated the world of alternative medicine and sought out specialists who understood PANS, we felt the weight of uncertainty pressing down on us.
The physical and emotional toll of PANS was further compounded when Emily contracted COVID. It felt like an extra layer of distress was added to an already overwhelming situation. But even in the midst of it all, Emily's resilience shone through. She faced each day with determination and a will to overcome the obstacles thrown her way.
Thankfully, with the guidance of an exceptional doctor and the support of organizations like the
“JBC PANS & PANDAS Foundation,” we found treatments that started to bring Emily back to us. Treating her gut health and enrolling in a brain reintegration program were small steps that made a world of difference. We watched as our daughter began to think more clearly, regain her strength, and slowly return to the activities she loved.
Through it all, the JBC Foundation has been an invaluable source of support. Their grant money enabled Emily to participate in a nutrition program that was recommended by her naturopath. The JBC team was always there to offer guidance and help when we needed it most. They have become an integral part of our journey, and we are forever grateful.
Seeing Emily thrive and work at an Ice Cream shop, receiving praise for her outstanding performance, has filled our hearts with immense pride. It's a testament to her resilience and determination. As her parents, we are in awe of her strength and her ability to find solace in art. Her beautiful and symbolic artwork has become a reflection of her journey and a reminder that beauty and hope can arise from the most challenging circumstances, as the hummingbird brings together all of the beauty that was unraveled. Emily's middle name is Rose, so she wanted to incorporate flowers and the hummingbird as a symbol of hope.
Healing is very possible. Don't ever lose hope.
While it saddens us to think about the time Emily lost due to her illness, we now see it as a crucial part of her personal growth. PANS has shaped her into a kind, caring, and empathetic young woman who is ready to take on the world. We are grateful for the support and love we have received from friends, family, and the JBC Foundation.
As parents, our hearts burst with gratitude and hope. We have witnessed firsthand the incredible progress Emily has made. Healing is possible, and we will never lose hope. Emily's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of light.
Thank you Stacie, PANDAS Network and the JBC Foundation for helping us find the words and giving us a platform to share Emily's story of HOPE!
