This time last year we had our sweet Kitty home and the enormity of what we had just been through was beginning to hit home. When you are encapsulated in a world of fear and unknown everything else stands still. The only way to get through it is to put things in boxes in your mind and try to forget about them. As a mother I found it so difficult that, whilst we were in hospital, I could do nothing for any of my children. I don't think I have ever felt so useless or numb as in my darkest times last year. If it wasn't for the genuine acts of kindness we countlessly encountered I am not sure we would be who and where we are now.
Our amazing family and friends took control of everything none hospital related. They fed and clothed and comforted my other babies whilst we stayed with the one who needed us most. They did the washing and the ironing they even had a rota to provide food for us everyday for as long as we needed. There were 30 odd people who volunteered to cook for us. I will never forget how humbling and wonderful that felt.
The kindness we were shown gave us the time and space to concentrate on Kitty and her journey. We grew much strength from all the wonderful messages we received from all over the world. People tweeted with stories of throwing pebbles into the sea for Kitty, of thinking of us and offering help. She received almost 100 cards whilst she was in hospital. From as far away as Australia, Afghanistan, India, America to places much closer to home like Brecon and Bradford people were thinking of and praying for Kitty. People we knew and people we have never met covered Kitty in constant prayer for the whole time she was unwell. Each message and prayer gave us strength. The knowledge that people really cared carried us through some very difficult times. One of the joys of having a faith and a church family is the fellowship it brings. Prayer is a powerful tool. Whether you believe in a God or not.
These 2 photographs were taken exactly a year apart and show just how far we have all come. They remind me how blessed I am. They remind me that anything is possible and that human kindness should never be underestimated.
My prayer now is of thanks and of hope that I too remember to 'Scatter Kindness'.
Kristy x
