If you can't say anything nice

Let's make this a quickie:

Freedom of speech is a wonderful thing, and we support it around here. For all of you who are writing, blogging, commenting, or posting about Sahara's story, we welcome your words, your efforts, and your good wishes.

Period.

Today I've had the sad task of reading a number of emails from people who have done just that, and now have others telling them that the Aldridge family or I am offended. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Get the story out there. But please, be accurate. If you didn't read it here first, or get it directly from Amy, Sahara, or Shannon, it may not be true. Some of the things I posted yesterday are out there, and people are passing them on. That helps no one. And it can hurt the Aldridge family. Mistakes about ages or birthdays are no big deal--but rumors about Sahara's health are more upsetting. Please, we will tell you all we know, and all the family feels comfortable sharing, here.

On a related note, there have been some ugly comments on this blog, and I've deleted them. If you don't like what we have to say, don't read, and don't post. But if you write something cruel or hateful, please don't expect any hospitality.