Request to help this CA heal from a tough 2013.

[Jill1228]

Yes, I reached for the tissues long before your tissue break. I want to give you a HUGE hug, but due to my recently having surgery and LOTS of stitches, it'll have to be a light hug.

I agree with the others. You've got to take care of YOU. You won't be use to anyone else if you don't.

Give your little legacy a kiss from all of us at GC

[AOII Angel]

Your story is heart rending. Sometimes you just have to wonder how one person can handle so much. I agree with the others who have suggested that you need to take care of yourself first. Mourn properly for lost dreams (there is nothing wrong with adjusting to the realities of what it means to have a child with Down Syndrome), care for your child as she recovers from surgery and I'm sure goes to therapy for a litany of other issues, and mourn the loss of your two sisters who passed so suddenly just as you should have been happily celebrating the birth of your child. I'm sure you are mentally and physically exhausted. Time heals all wounds, but you have to give yourself that time. Another suggestion when you are feeling better would be to help the chapter find a way to honor these sisters. A special memorial, an award named for them, scholarship endowed in their name. Focusing on something positive out of the tragedy can help.

[navane]

Praying for you.

[clemsongirl]

I hit the waterworks well before the tissue break. I'm so sorry for all of your losses and I wish I really knew what a stranger on the internet could say or do to make a difference, but I don't. I'll keep you and your loved ones in my thoughts.

[ZTAme]

For sharing your struggles and for the reminder that perspective is everything. You are in my prayers.

[AnchorAlumna]

Hugs to you, sweet lady.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for everyone is to let them help you for a change. Give them a chance to earn some stars for their crowns in heaven.
Take a rest from sorority, and give another alum the chance to step up and develop her skills. The wonderful thing about sorority is that it is always there when you are ready to return.
Meanwhile, your family and your sweet little daughter need you right now. Is there anything better than being loved and needed?
Blessings to you and yours.

[AOIIalum]

I can't really say much different than everyone else, but my love goes out to you Trish. You've gone through a lot in the past months, no question about that. Whatever you choose, as long as you do what is best for you and your family, because sorority will always be there for you. Always.

[SoProud2BeAnAlphaXi]

Sister, you have given so much for Alpha Xi Delta and are so valued, not a soul among us questions the need for you to do whatever you need to do to heal. If that's stepping back, that's fine; if it's immersing yourself, that's fine too. We are here to share both joy and sorrow with you, and I hope you feel the love and attempts at comfort we're sending your way.

[AGDLynn]

So happy to have met you all those years ago.

I know what it takes to be a CA. Think of you and your family first. The chapter will know that you are not abandoning them. Just steering a different course for a while.

[greekdee]

Oh my, Trish, you have been through so much and been so strong.

My family has been through a very challenging 18 months. The circumstances are different from yours, but something I learned is to let people help you. Accept their offers if needed and don't be afraid to ask. The fact that you've reached out here shows that you understand the need for support, but it's surprising how many people resist it and shut themselves off during difficult times, or try to shoulder it all and then some.

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.