From the bottom of my heart

This is one of the few photos of newborn Small Fry and me that does not make me want to cry.

I tuck a print into whatever book I’m reading as a reminder that, yes, I struggled, but even more important, I have a beautiful daughter to show for it.

Most everyone who reads this blog knows that I’m a postpartum depression survivor.

It’s pretty much the reason I started writing pretty*swell. To be a resource for other moms and (I hope) show that life DOES get better.

Another way that I try to pay it forward is by volunteering with the organization that played a huge role in my recovery: Postpartum Education and Support.

I’ll never forget the gigantic wave of relief that washed over me during my first support group meeting. Not only because I’d been dreading it with a capital D, but also because there were so many other moms in that room feeling EXACTLY the was I was feeling. Hopeless. Scared. Crazy.

I realized I was not alone.

And I healed.

Thank goodness.

On October 2, Postpartum Education and Support is hosting its first-ever StrollerThon fundraiser, and I am super-excited about this event. All proceeds from the three-mile walk will fund programs and services that benefits moms and their families.

If you live in (or near) the Triangle area and want to walk, or if you’d just like to support the cause, click here.

If you’re a blogger and would be willing to post a badge on your site for the next month, drop me an e-mail.

Thanks for anything you can do to help get the word out. Every little bit makes a big difference!