Dawn's Story
Allow me to share my journey with you. I'm Dawn, a mother who has walked the challenging path alongside my daughter's recovery from heroin addiction. With unwavering love and support, my husband Joe and I gained custody of my grandson Elijah when he was just 18 months old. Now, as Elijah approaches his twelfth year, our bond grows stronger every day.
One playful moment with Elijah, sparked a profound realization within me. As we shared laughter and jokes, I couldn't help but reflect on the countless children who lack the stable, nurturing environment that Elijah is fortunate to have. That realization ignited the inception of BTDEL - an organization born from the desire to provide love, care, and stability to those children who need it most.
The name "BTDEL" holds a special significance, inspired by a moment of connection between Elijah and me. As he innocently sang the Star-Spangled Banner, reaching the phrase "By the Dawn's Early Light," it struck a chord within us both. It was a serendipitous moment, perfectly aligning with my name, Dawn, and encapsulating the hope and promise that we strive to bring into the lives of others.
Through our journey, we've transformed adversity into opportunity, turning the darkness of addiction into the guiding light of purpose. My daughter's own journey through recovery has brought a deeper meaning to our lives, reinforcing the belief that even our most challenging experiences can lead us to our true calling.
In every moment, we're reminded of the power of love, resilience, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance at a brighter future.
