MyChart
In the bustling corridors of Welia Health, amidst the flurry of daily activity, there’s a story that embodies the essence of love and inclusivity. It’s the story of Welia Health surgical technician Rebecca and her youngest daughter, Amelia, whose unexpected journey began right within the walls of operating room number three (OR3) on the Mora campus.
Rebecca’s daughter came into the world with a surprise diagnosis of Down syndrome. “The little person in the center of all of our pics is Amelia, my youngest child,” Rebecca shares. “Her Down syndrome diagnosis was completely unexpected; it was discovered at birth.” Reflecting on the first year, Rebecca recounts the emotional rollercoaster of navigating uncharted waters, filled with uncertainties and fears but also with profound love and determination.
At six months old, Amelia underwent open-heart surgery at Children’s Minneapolis, marking a pivotal moment in her journey. “After surgery, recovery was a long but uneventful road,” Rebecca recalls. However, today, at the age of three, Amelia is a bundle of joy with a huge heart and tons of energy.
The journey, however, is not one in which Rebecca walks alone. Her colleagues at Welia Health have been her pillars of support, learning and growing alongside her every step of the way. To celebrate and express her heartfelt gratitude, Rebecca initiated a tradition in a simple yet powerful gesture: wearing crazy mismatched socks on March 21 for World Down Syndrome Day to celebrate what it means to be different.
“The very first pic was taken in front of the OR3 door because that’s where her journey began,” Rebecca shares. What started as a humble gesture has blossomed into a movement of love and support. Each year, the photo grows in numbers, with OR staff eagerly joining in, donning their mismatched socks and matching gear.
“Our pictures are always meant to show love and support,” Rebecca emphasizes. “They represent what inclusion should look like, what full support and love should look like.” Indeed, the photos radiate with warmth and positivity, a testament to the power of unity and acceptance.
As they look ahead, Rebecca and the OR team at Welia Health aim to make each year bigger and better, spreading their message of inclusion and love far and wide. As the photos continue to capture the essence of their journey, one thing remains certain: they serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us all of the beauty found in embracing differences and standing together in solidarity.
