But What Can Just One Person Do?

Have you ever wanted to help someone but didn't know how? Ever found yourself wishing that there was something you could do, but the problem just seemed way too big?

Well, I can tell you from personal experience that even the smallest gestures can bring about the biggest miracles. I've seen it happen countless times — both for my own family, and for beautiful friends, hanging on for that faint glimmer of hope.

Tiff's lovely family from Three Ring Circus, just recently discovered what grand things a small step of faith and a little creativity can accomplish in life.

See this beautiful little girl?

Isn't she a doll? You wouldn't know it to look at this photo, but over the past year, Ivy has been in for the fight of her life. Literally.

In March, after countless months without a diagnosis, Ivy was finally diagnosed with a rare condition known as pemphigus, and additionally with immune deficiency and ectodermal dysplasia.

Since then, she has experienced a severe medication reaction, chronic illnesses due to her immunosupressed state, and fevers so high that they have caused convulsions.

She's only two — the same age as my own little boy.

Despite all that she's been through and the countless reasons she qualified for treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), her families request for treatment was denied. The IVIG would provide a transfusion of immune cells that would bolster Ivy’s own immune system and help her fight infections in a normal way — and give her a chance at a healthy childhood.

But the powers that be said no. That is, they said no until Veronica from Sleepless Nights had something to say about it. Veronica is one of those rare, wonderful souls that instead of wishing she could do something, she does it.

Just what did she do? She put up a simple, yet moving post about Ivy on her blog and started a petition. Such a simple thing — I've been kicking myself that I didn't think of it, but I'm sure glad that Veronica was there to do so. Can you guess what happened with the petition?

Over one thousand people signed it.

A few short days later, Ivy was approved for IVIG therapy.

So. Next time you doubt that your small little gesture will make a difference, think again. Then think of Veronica. Think of Ivy. Think of the difference you could make. You. All by yourself. You can make the sort of difference that matters for someone — and it is so worth the effort.

Oh, and while you're thinking of Ivy, why not stop by and wish her well while she's recovering from her first round of treatment? A small gesture, but I can guarantee you — it matters.

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