Hope in the Holidays
December 3, 2024
As the season of warmth and togetherness unfolds, the Nielsens find themselves back in the place they have long dreamed of, home. They take some time to reflect on their journey at Children's Hospital Colorado during trying times.
Nearly three years ago, we stood amidst ashes and uncertainty, having lost our home in the 2021 Marshall Fire. It was a season of profound loss, but also a time that revealed the unshakable strength of community and the power of HOPE.
In those trying times and over the years, Children’s Hospital Colorado became more than just a place of care—it became our family, a comforting haven when life felt most uncertain. Having a child endure major surgeries, including heart and colon procedures, reshaped our perspective on resilience. Those moments taught us how to weather storms far beyond what we imagined we could handle, preparing us for even more challenges ahead. The compassion and expertise we found at Children’s Colorado gave us hope not only for recovery for our child, but for the strength to face whatever came next in life.
This year, as we gather around our table for the holidays, it feels like a true homecoming. For Hope, now 9, it’s the joy of decorating her very own room for the first time, filling it with creativity and love. For Mikka, 13, it’s rediscovering her basketball and golf trophies, symbols of her passion and hard work that survived the flames. And for Danikka, 15, it’s the culmination of years of perseverance, as she balances her dreams of college golf with her unwavering faith and heart for service.
Reflecting on this journey, our family has been profoundly shaped by both the challenges we faced and the memories we created along the way. Living in displacement wasn’t easy, but it taught us resilience, strengthened our bonds, and reminded us of the kindness of others. As we hang ornaments and bake cookies in our rebuilt home, we are filled with gratitude for those who gave us hope when we needed it most.
This holiday season, we’re reminded that perseverance is a hallmark of not just our family, but of every family who faces trials with determination and faith. We celebrate being “back home,” but more importantly, we celebrate the journey that brought us here—and the community that walked alongside us.
May this season bring you joy, love, and the inspiration to continue making a difference in the lives of families like ours. From our hearts to yours, thank you for giving us hope, and for showing us the true meaning of the holidays.
With gratitude,
The Nielsen Family
Heikke, Jolene, Hope, Mikka, and Danikka