We are the Flewellings

I feel extremely blessed to have this opportunity to share Frankie’s story, and I hope and pray it’s a blessing to you too. Empathy is hard to teach. But my heart’s desire is that through this book children will better understand how to accept and celebrate children like Frankie. Children with unique abilities deserve to be understood and accepted! I’m ofen asked questions like, “Why does Frankie wear braces on her feet?” or “Why is Frankie being weird?” Frankly even I sometimes struggle with how to respond. So I decided to give Frankie, and other children like Frankie, a voice. This book will help answer some of these questions, and hopefully give you a glimmer into an incredible little girl who’s got grit! Francesca Margo was born in 2010 and our lives felt complete. Despite numerous medical issues she encountered as an infant, we didn’t expect or realize how it would afect her future. However; once I realized Frankie was going to possibly need special care indefinitely, my internal dialogue shifed and I began to dwell on questions, “Why me? Why us? What could we have done diferently to prevent this?” What helped me tremendously with anxiety was journaling and writing a book, and participating in support groups. I was a little hesitant at first to share my story with others but I found that the more I did, the less lonely I felt. I allowed myself to be vulnerable and opened up to other parents and caregivers that were in the same boat---I like to call it a cruise ship. The wealth of knowledge and friends I have gained has been priceless. That’s how this book was born! If you have or know a child like Frankie, we’d love to hear from you. Please visit our website, www.thisgirlsgotgrit.com and find us on Facebook and Instagram.

“Because of your little faith,” he told them. “For truly I tell you, if you have the faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain ‘move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

-Matthew 17:20