When my older daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I felt like I had to be hyper-vigilant all the time. It is an invisible illness in many ways: it doesn’t show outwardly, but it is always there, shaping decisions, routines, and worries. At first, I hovered constantly, trying to protect her from every possible mistake or risk. Over time, I realized that my vigilance, while well-intentioned, wasn’t helping her grow into the confident young woman she was meant to be. I had to learn to step back, trust her judgment, and support her through the times she stumbled, rather than preventing every stumble. It wasn’t easy, and even now, there are moments of fear that creep back in. But the transition from helicopter parent to trusted support system has brought us much closer and given her the space to thrive. Along the way, I also volunteered at a children’s hospital, helping other families who were navigating the anxiety and complexity of serious childhood illnesses. I would love to offer the same support to others finding their way through this journey.