Monday marked Demi Lovato's 26th birthday, and in addition to the outpouring of love and support from her fans, the singer also got one special message from her younger sister, Madison De La Garza.
In honor of her big sister's birthday, De La Garza posted a childhood pic of the two of them smiling at the camera and included a heartfelt message.
"Today could have been one of the worst days of my life, but instead i get to spend it thanking God, the incredible doctors, demi's team, and everyone across the world who offered their support — without all of these people i wouldn't have my big sister anymore," De La Garza wrote in the caption. "I've been thinking about how i wish that everyone could see the silly little things that she does, like how her nostrils move when she says certain words and when she brushes my hair behind my ear when i'm trying to sleep, because those are the things i'm thankful for today.
"They seem so small, but those little things make up my sister — not a singer, not a celebrity, and definitely not what she's been described as in the media," she continued. "She's a daughter, a friend, and my big sister… and i am so, so thankful that i can tell her happy birthday. #happybirthdaydemi ❤️"
Earlier this month, Lovato released a statement following a suspected drug overdose and subsequent hospitalization at the end of July.
"I want to thank my family, my team, and the staff at Cedars-Sinai who have been by my side this entire time," Lovato said in the statement. "Without them I wouldn't be here writing this letter to all of you. I now need time to heal and focus on my sobriety and road to recovery. The love you all have shown me will never be forgotten and I look forward to the day where I can say I came out on the other side. I will keep fighting."
Recovery is a long, sometimes challenging road. But, as SELF explained previously, having a solid support system can make a huge difference and give you the foundation you need to move forward.
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