This tile is dedicated to all "mothers"
who have had children with the rare genetic neuromuscular disease Spinal Muscular Atrophy
or SMA. These women exemplify the true meaning of "spirit". They
display incredible courage as some watch their children die and others watch as their
children slowly lose the ability to move, hold their head up, sit, stand, walk, eat,
swallow and breathe. They show the true spirit of a mother's love for a child;
protecting, nurturing, providing and loving them. The endless hours spent in
searching for the proper care and treatment so their children can be
"comfortable". The pain of watching their children suffer to
reach for a small toy or struggle to take a breath. They were chosen by God to take
care of his special angel for reasons only He knows. Maybe because He saw in them
that they could rise above and see clearly ignorance, cruelty and prejudice. Many
believe in angels, not too many get to touch or know one. They are meant to be made
aware of. That is what these moms do! They are true saints to true angels.
The SMA Clinic at OSU established in July 1998,
is located in McCampbell Hall on the OSU Medical Campus across from The Spirit of Women
Park. Without the dedication of three Ohio families, headed by the "moms",
this clinic would not exist. The Preston, Matthew, and Miracle for Madison funds
were established to increase and support the health care delivery for children with SMA,
promote awareness for this dreaded disease and raise funds for research at
OSU.
Shot of several of the tiles
