Last week at Matthew’s baseball game, I was pushing Olivia in her stroller/wheelchair around the corner to get situated at the game. The previous game was just getting over and the boys were milling around getting medals and pictures as it was the last game of the season. Catching me completely off guard, a boy pointed at Olivia in front of all of his teammates and their parents and shouted “OH MY GOD! LOOK AT HER!” and then laughed. The boys joined in.
I couldn’t believe it.
I gave him a death glare and shouted back “WELL, THAT WAS RUDE!” and got us situated. The boys and their families were still milling around and not one of the parents said a word to that boy or to me. I was so angry I was seeing red and shaking. I said to Olivia, very loudly: “Look at you! Can you believe how beautiful my girl is?” Because you know what? She can hear and she has feelings.
Honestly, I was devastated. My heart hurt. Thank God this kind of thing doesn’t happen very often. But the stares happen constantly. And that is exactly why it’s important to spread awareness.
People need to know that those with disabilities are just…people. Different isn’t bad. Different is beautiful and sweet and funny and kind and the purest soul you’ll ever meet. Different is the best damn girl you’ll ever have the privilege to know. When we spread awareness, we hopefully help people realize all of these things.
I sometimes feel like I don’t do enough to spread awareness. But I do what I can. I’m having my 6th annual golf outing on August 10th for Olivia and Cri du Chat Syndrome. If you would be interested in helping in any way, please let me know! And if you can spread awareness in your own way, please do!
Elastamom's Excerpts 
You and your family are, simply, amazing, even though it just seems like you live your life. You are special, loving role models. Thank you. Peace.
I’m so sorry that happened to you and Olivia. People’s callousness can be shocking sometimes. ((you)) ((Olivia))
Where were the PARENTS?!?!?
Ugh. I am so sorry Tiffany. How frustrating that some people can’t or refuse to see Olivia’s beauty and captivating personality. They suck. But you don’t…you are an AMAZING mother with an amazing family. Xo
I can’t BELIEVE none of the adults said anything, even when you gave a response! What dicks. Love what you said about awareness. People can be so afraid of the unknown…
You’re amazing girl! So is Olivia and your entire family! If I was standing there I’m pretty sure I would have been shocked too! By the way…. Would a manicure help for a prize? Let me know!
Thanks
Summer
Love this! Love you! Very well said & shame on those boys & parents. I think you do an amazing job of making people aware of so many things!
I am so sorry that this occurred, Tiffany.
Sending hugs and lots of love. xoxo
So very sorry you had this nastiness happen. But I am very impressed that you were able to check the boy for being so rude, and to defend your beautiful girl. The world is changing too slowly, every time we can make someone else aware of being a better person to the differently abled, the better.
Love to you all x x x
My mothers heart understands your feelings of being crushed but I know the strong beautiful woman you are and are raising Olivia to be. God bless you and your family for being shining examples to us all of his perfectness in creating each one of us as unique individuals with different personalities, feelings and needs.
What?! Shameful! Glad you confronted it, a good step in the right direction. After all the recent bullying in NWO(Anthony Wayne)you would think it would be a no-brainer that parents are talking to their children about proper behavior and acceptance of others whether they are similar or different!
I’m so, so sorry that happened to you and Olivia. I’m doubly sorry that no other adults stepped up and said anything to the boys. I’m a firm believer that whatever people accept becomes acceptable, so kudos to you for putting him in his place. Hugs.