today is a special day — i’m embracing it with a big ol’ bear hug because it’s congenital diaphragmatic hernia (cdh) awareness day. if you didn’t know, i was diagnosed with cdh. i was never expected to live, let alone turn 5, 10 or 17 years old. i am now 26 and having life experiences that no one would have dreamed possible. it has been quite a journey, but i wouldn’t change it for the world. i am just so so grateful to be here. cdh occurs when the diaphragm fails to fully form, allowing the abdominal organs to move up into the chest and preventing lung and heart growth. it happens to 1 out of 2500 babies and only 20% survive. the cause is still unknown. in honor of those who are also battling with cdh — have a heart filled with hope for the fighters, admiration for the survivors, and honor for the taken.