Our story so far: how Little Incluencers began
Well, we're live! It's so exciting to see our new page come to life, and to build on the amazing reception Little Incluencers has had in its first few months. From the very beginning, Little Incluencers has been about sharing the realities of life with a child with a serious disability, and about passing on what we've learned along the way, in the hope that something we share helps at least one other parent.
Alina and I met in London, where we both worked in hospitality, and a few years later we made the move to Germany, Alina's home country. Not long after, our son Laurens arrived, and for most of his first year life was full of the usual baby milestones.
Shortly before his first birthday, things changed. After a long period of tests and waiting, Laurens was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Aicardi-Goutières syndrome (AGS). Like many parents who get news like this, we had a lot of questions and very few places to turn for answers or support.
The years since have been a big learning curve for all of us. We've had to adapt, build resilience and fight for the support Laurens needs. Alina in particular has been incredible, leading the way on so much of that.
That's where Little Incluencers comes in. It's our way of turning our experience into something positive. We hope it brings a little more understanding into the world, helps other families feel less alone, and maybe even opens a few doors for Lauri and kids like him.
We love our life with Laurens. He brings us more sunshine than we ever could have imagined, and we're determined to make the most of every day. Thank you for being part of that.
Paul (Papa Incluencer)