I want to preface this post, as it’s two-fold. I’ve been a little more silent than usual, but it’s not what you think. I’m seeing, hearing, reading and learning from my Black sisters and brothers. That I promise.
But in unfortunate timing, along with the heartbreak that’s caused me to cry over the news of our country, we found out that our sweet pup, our best friend and the light of our family, Lucy, has what looks to be an incurable mass on her heart. And because of it, she is experiencing a secondary condition that’s causing lymph fluid to collect in her chest cavity (called Chylothorax).
To say we are in shock is a complete understatement. I never knew it’d be possible for my heart to break not just into two pieces, but three. Rick and I don’t have children, so for 6.5 years Lucy has been a child to us; she is the light of our lives. And while devastated doesn’t even begin to describe how we feel, we’re doing our absolute best to keep her comfortable, showering her with love and relishing in the time we have left with her.
I will say, I’m not done fighting for her just yet. She’s far surpassed the 24-hour mark that the internist gave her last Monday, June 1st. As of today, we are now nine days removed from the heart-breaking diagnosis. I’m still calling around to different vets, openly exploring holistic and homeopathic options and even reached out to the vet who is the leading expert on Lucy’s Chylothorax condition.
If you could please keep Lucy and our little family in your thoughts and prayers, it’d be so appreciated.
In this time, I’ve really been reflecting and thinking. In the midst of all of this, we’ve witnessed the beginning of a revolution. And I’ve really found solace in the following quote from Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
So while a few things are going on for us personally, and I will never understand what it’s like to have to be fearful because of the color of my skin, I want to promise and put into writing that I will continue to speak up for what’s right. I will use this space of mine to share amazing and wonderful Black creators and business owners whenever possible.
Teaching in the words of love is a start. Loving others infinitely, being a good neighbor, listening and fighting harder; I vow to be open to correction if I make a mistake. And open to learning how to continue to be an active ally. Because above all else, justice is not just a privilege, it’s a right.
I want to make clear that I will not stop either, even when the “fad” of sharing on social media goes away.
I’ve been using my space on Instagram to share a few amazing organizations to donate to, such as Black Girl Ventures, Black Women’s Blueprint, The Conscious Kid, and Yellowstone Academy, which is locally-based here in Houston. We’re also working behind the scenes here at Girl Wonder Life to create some amazing content centered around Black female owned businesses, and cannot wait to share more soon!
I truly feel that by doing this small part, together we can make a difference.
So, honestly, I’ve struggled to share my personal issues in the last week, because I don’t want to be seen as making this about myself during this larger time. But so many of you have reached out, that I realized it was time to share.
Thank you for being understanding. Thank you for loving Lucy from afar and for your infinite prayers of courage and strength. It doesn’t go unnoticed.
