When I found out my daughter Lydia was diagnosed with CDH, my heart shattered. I knew she needed specialized care in Houston and honestly, I didn’t know how I could ever afford to relocate. But I knew I’d do anything to give her the best chance at life.
I started calling around and realized there was no way we would be able to afford anywhere. Then, we found Project Joy and Hope, and everything changed. The moment I walked through the door, I cried. Not from fear, but from overwhelming gratitude. Having a place to stay lifted an enormous weight off my shoulders. I felt like I could finally breathe. I knew that meant Lydia could get the care she needed. Not only that but when I walked in they had gifts for my older daughters. It overwhelmed me with how thoughtful the whole process was just on Day One. I’m so grateful to say that my older daughters had a safe, welcoming space, complete with activities that gave them joy during a difficult time. After Lydia’s birth, Ms. Whitney went above and beyond, spending time with my older girls and doing activities with them, making sure they felt care for. That kindness meant I could focus on Lydia’s treatment with peace.
Project Joy and Hope gave our family something immeasurable that I could truly never ever repay. Because of them, I write this while holding my sweet baby Lydia who would have only had a 12% chance of survival rate but instead had a 90% chance of survival. And in just 4 weeks Lydia came home. I cry while writing this because the emotions are still so real. Ms. Jan, thank you so much for creating such a life-changing organization. From the bottom of all the Littrell family’s hearts, we want to say “Thank you!”