Day 290: Did My Part To Give Jasmin The Gift Of Independence

I am not a very independent person.  I've always had my own thoughts, opinions, and have always been particular about the way things are done, but I have never lived by myself and I have always relied on the women in my life (Mom, Sister, Wife) for so many different things.  Whenever I am home alone, that usually only lasts a few minutes before I go to someone's house to hang out.  I think I have a deep seeded fear of being lonely and bored, and so therefore, I am pretty dependent on having someone around me at all times regardless of if it is a friend or stranger.  So for me, independence is something that I feel I should strive for because it will help me to grow as a person.  I have always had the ability to increase my independence, so when I see someone who is fighting to gain their own, it really reminds me not to take it for granted.

On October 6th, I received a Facebook message from a teacher in Connecticut.  She told me about an incredible former student of hers who, in spite of a debilitating condition, is a top student, hard worker, and always has a positive outlook on life.  At 5 1/2 years old, Jasmin Floyd was diagnosed with a rare bone disease called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (or FOP).  FOP is a disease which causes Jasmin's muscles to turn into bone, slowly creating a second skeleton.  Because of her FOP, Jasmin has lost movement in her neck, arms and legs in addition to also suffering from decreased lung capacity, chronic pain, and scoliosis.  Despite all of this, Jasmin feels as though she was given this disease to prove that she could overcome it.  Jasmin wants to continue to gain independence for herself, and is in need of both medical supplies and supplies for school (she is currently attending college) in order to achieve that.  So today, for my random act of kindness, I did my part to give Jasmin the gift of independence by giving a small donation to her.  When I see someone who was dealt a tough hand, but doesn't allow it to define her, it inspires me to be a better person.  If you would like to help Jasmin's cause, you can do so here.