I knelt down next to my daughter, who had been watching the exchange with wide, anxious eyes. “Hey, sweetheart,” I said softly, “how about we go grab some ice cream together? We can come back and do something else fun if you want.”

She nodded, her eyes still glistening with unshed tears. “Okay, Mom,” she whispered.

As we left the pool area, I felt a mixture of sadness and resolve. I was disappointed in my sister, but more determined than ever to advocate for my daughter and educate those around us about her condition.