So 'us' is really just me, for now. But that's okay, because I have enough to say for all of us.  But hopefully that will change, as more women get involved and we grow into a full-fledged support system for all you moms of kids with chronic disease out there.

My name is Deb, and I have two boys. My older one has cystic fibrosis. I could tell you that I am an expert and have things well under control, but that would be a lie. I do, however, have 16 years of experience with crying, fighting, hoping, wondering and wishing, to lend to this little project of mine. I don't know if I would go so far as to say I have any real insight into the surreal and sometimes heartbreaking world of children with chronic illness, but I do understand the complicated emotions involved. I also understand that moms carry the lion's share of the load.

We need to take care of ourselves. We need to keep our sanity and recharge our souls. I think we can do that here, at The Common Thread Project. Let's help each other out, and give each other a break. I want us to use this site to unburden ourselves, ever so briefly, of the heavy load we are carrying. I am willing to take this in any direction you need in order to feel heard and supported. And I'm thinking I may need to find a way to throw in some pampering, too!

So that's the nutshell version of my little vision. I hope you'll jump in and participate. I love feedback and ideas. The occasional rant or pity party is always appreciated, as well.

What else might you need to know about me? Well, I hate my hair more often than not, I worship shoes but rarely get out of my flip flops, and I am currently depressed about the ever-growing bags under my eyes.