No Longer My Sister’s Shield

My younger sister Ella had a rare disease.

The slightest touch would leave her covered in bruises, and a fall could shatter her bones completely.

She was our family's "porcelain doll."

Growing up, the words I heard most often were that I had to protect Ella at all costs.

So when she fell down the stairs right in front of me, I didn't hesitate to throw myself beneath her.

Ella was fine.

But I broke my leg and would be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of my life.

After that, the words I heard most often changed to:

"Anna, Ella will be grateful to you."