Choose Kind

No words can express how much I love my beautiful sister, Halle Regan - she makes this world a happier and better place. She was born with Pfeiffer Syndrome, a genetic bone disorder that makes the bones in her face grow differently. She was recently interviewed by @condor_folklore about her experiences and did AMAZING, so I had to share her message here. Check out the video!

When I was about 6 years old, all I wanted was a baby sister.  I remember begging my mom to have a baby girl. I prayed for 2 years for her. haha! When my parents found out they were having a baby, they couldn't wait to tell me. I told my mom that if she had twins, she could take care of the boy and I'd take care of the girl. haha! The whole family went to the ultrasound to find out the gender. My mom wrote, "When the technician said 'this baby is a girl,' you didn't know what to say! Your eyes filled with tears. I said 'Arianne! You are going to have a sister!"

When my parents were deciding a name for her, they came across the name, “Halle”, meaning “strong in war”. And let me tell you, I have never met a stronger person than Halle. Halle has this way of bringing light and strength to all who know her.

Halle started a blog, Step up to your edge, to share some of her stories and experiences. “I want people to know that looks don’t define the person – it is how you act and what you do. Pfeiffer syndrome has helped define who I am by helping me gain strength and courage and faith. I always try to remember the positive things in my life and I make Pfeiffer a positive thing in my life." I love reading her posts and know you will too!

We are also big fans of the book Wonder by R.J. Palacio. If you haven’t read it, order it here and read it! It’s about a boy who has a facial difference and his experiences. Its full of good messages to choose to be kind. “Kinder than is necessary. Because it's not enough to be kind. One should be kinder than needed.” It is one of my favorite books and I can't wait for the movie to come out soon! Over 60,000 people have signed the pledge to choose kind - you can too, right here.

Thank you Halle for being a fearless advocate for kindness and a most amazing sister. God knew I needed you in my life.