Why?

Why are we keeping this journal about something that we would really rather forget? Why would we want record of this terrible time in our life, when re-reading these things will just cause us to relive the pain?

First and foremost, I am keeping this blog for me. So that I can remember how my daughter feels on which days of the week and after which medicines are administered. How we handled the bad days, and also how we enjoyed the good days. We are going to experience the full realm of emotions throughout this.

Secondly, I am keeping this blog so that all of our wonderful friends and family can keep up to date on the girl they love so much. Literally hundreds of people have offered help to us. Prayers, meals, gifts, babysitting, condolences. I am getting the feeling that people really do want to help. And honestly, these people are what is going to bring us through. I owe it to everybody to keep them informed as to how Ally is doing with the treatments and what our schedule may entail. I thought this way would be easier than sending out emails all of the time. It will allow me to stay connected without taking time away from my daughter. Check it often. I will try to be good about updating, even if the post is small. If it bothers you to read about how crappy life can be for a seven year old girl, then don't read it! Something tells me that we are all going to learn a lot from her. As horrible as this disease is, she is going to turn out to be a tremendously brave, compassionate, and smart person. I just know it.

Finally, someday when I am on the other side of this, maybe I will be able to help another family. Maybe they will read our story and find some commonality that will make them feel at ease. That it is going to be ok.

Why did I choose ALL4Ally? First of all, ALL is the disease that we are battling. It is strange that it is also the first three letters of her name. But more than that, I was thinking that we are ALL in this together. Everyone that loves her. And it is a lot of people.

Welcome to our journey. Two parents who wish they could take the pain away from their little girl. A baby sister who cries every time her sister cries. And, well, a slightly irritating, but also loving little brother who promises to stick up for her if anyone says anything about her lack of hair. Please leave us comments. I think this will be a frequent source of support for our whole family.