You are never prepared to hear the paralyzing news that your daughter has cancer.  You do not think this can happen to you.    Our daughter Alyssa married  her high school sweetheart Joey in May of 2015. They were  so excited to  begin  building their life together and planning a family.  The news that they were expecting  came in December 2016. Life in their eyes ( and ours)  could  not get any better .  Alyssa and Joe   could not  imagine anything other than a typical pregnancy and a healthy baby.  In her third trimester they were not prepared to receive the news that their son may be facing some serious health concerns. Carter was diagnosed with Achondroplasia  .  This is a genetic condition that results in dwarfism.  The emotional strain of the uncertainty of their sons health was overwhelming,  what some would deem unbearable. Their strength, attitude and love for their son has been remarkable. They are blessed that Carter is healthy , however,  he  will  require ongoing health management.  Shortly after the birth of their son,  Alyssa  began to experience what we thought were typical "new mother" symptoms that included increased fatigue, lack of energy, insomnia  and exhaustion.  Unfortunately , this was not the case.  After discovering a lump on her neck, Alyssa sought medical attention and began extensive testing .   Alyssa has been diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma.   Life as she knew it has taken a different direction.  She and Joe are strong, brave , humble and proud, but they are going  to need help. She has missed a tremendous amount of time from work and will be unable to work  while she undergoes her treatment  course  that will consist of chemotherapy.  The loss of her income will have a serious impact on their household.  They have a mortgage, ongoing child care expenses, medical and travel expenses as well .  Alyssa and Joe are blessed to have a large support team of family and friends who want to help in any way they can.    We are all optimistic and positive. Her medical team has a plan in place  . This journey will be a challenging one to say the least,  but we  have  strong faith that she will beat this cancer!!  As a mom I feel helpless....so I thank you all in advance for your support during this difficult journey .  For  your  love, prayers, kindness   and your contributions to our daughters return to good health.