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Surviving Estrangement, Seizures, and Starting a Dog Fashion Empire (in Jeans That Fit and a Sunflower Shirt)

  • Writer: Crystal McDaniel
    Crystal McDaniel
  • 4 days ago
  • 3 min read

Estrangement will never stop a really cute T-Shirt with a Sunflower
Estrangement will never stop a really cute T-Shirt with a Sunflower

Let’s be honest: estrangement isn’t just a word—it’s a season.A heavy, quiet, confusing season that sneaks into everything.And lately? It's been the backdrop of my life, louder than my dog Big when Amazon dares to approach the porch.


There have been days I truly didn’t think I was going to make it.Days when it felt like the entire foundation of my world was about to give way.And on those days, the pain of estrangement from my adult daughter pressed on my chest like an elephant in heels—glamorous but crushing.


Panic attacks.Dizzy spells.Seizures.The full list of “I-didn’t-sign-up-for-this” symptoms.

But I’m not made of glass.I’m made of Vibranium.The same stuff Captain America’s shield is made of—minus the spandex and with a lot more dry shampoo and caffeine.


✨ Enter: ADA Paws Pass by Crystal. ✨Our mission? To raise awareness for those with invisible disabilities and give service dogs (and their humans) the recognition, access, and style they deserve.


We are so close to full launch, and it’s starting to feel real.Our brand-new tees have landed—and honey, they’re EVERYTHING. Soft. Strong. Covered in purpose. Stamped with the Sunflower Symbol to spread awareness for invisible disabilities and service dog access.


And here’s the beautiful part about sunflowers—During the day, they track the sun, soaking in every bit of warmth and energy it gives.At night, they droop. Not because they’re weak, but because they’re wise. They conserve energy. They rest—so they can rise again.

That’s exactly what it means to live with an invisible disability. Some days we shine, some days we droop—but we’re always growing. Always facing the light when we can.Still here. Still beautiful. Still pushing forward.


These shirts say:“I’ve been through it, but I still showed up.”

And for those incredible people who support us?The shirts say:“I’m with them. I get it. I care. I’ll help. I’ll show up.”


PLUS—big news—dog fashion is coming soon! Because service dogs and emotional support animals always deserve to look their best too. Big, my 105-pound Service Dog CEO, demands nothing less. 🐾👔


You can check out our site at www.pawspassada.com.It’s still under construction — inventory isn’t loaded yet, and I’m still adding info and links.But if you want to pre-order, just send me a DM!


This Monday, I get to gift some of these tees to a class of amazing children—because their teacher just happens to be my BFF from high school.Yes, the same one who helped me survive 80s fashion.(We made it through jelly shoes, perms, shoulder pads, and electric blue eyeliner—we are unstoppable.)


And, oh yeah—I'm getting ready for Italy.I may be weepy, wobbly, and worn out, but I’m still packing my bags and preparing to sing.Life’s not waiting, and neither am I.

Some days, I crawl.Some days, I strut.Most days, I hobble forward in jeans that fit, a Sunflower shirt, a smile held together by faith and caffeine, and a 105-pound Service Dog CEO named Big.


If you’re reading this and feeling like you’re inching your way through a fog—know this:You’re not alone.One inch at a time is still forward.Slow and steady is still progress.You’re still here—and that’s everything.


With sass, soul, and a suitcase full of hope,


Crystal & Big 🐾

Founder of ADA Paws Pass | Warrior Queen | Vibranium-Wrapped | Still Crawling, Still Hoping, Still Fabulous


Please Remember that you are loved and enough. Comment below and let us hear from you!



 
 
 

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