I’m not just competing on “American Idol” for me, but for the chance at giving my daughter a better future.

But as difficult as it is, competing on “American Idol” feels like a walk in the park after my years as a medical mama.

My daughter Lennon was diagnosed at 10 months old with the rare genetic condition TSC.

How could I possibly take care of my daughter, all of her medical needs, and continue my non-conventional career.

Lennon went on to need a liver transplant.

It was in the middle of a 90-day hospital stay with Lennon that I learned of the “American Idol” auditions.

I left Lennon in the care of my father during that time.

He flew in from Chicago just to be there with Lennon so I could compete on “Idol.” My dad is one of the smartest people I know and I knew he would care for Lennon as well as I would.

I spent the entire time trying to focus on the fact that I wasn’t doing this just for me, but for my daughter and her future as well.

Being at “American Idol” required an absurd amount of planning.

I never really knew whether I was doing the right thing, but I knew I was showing my daughter that there is no obstacle you can face that should prevent you from chasing your dreams.

I hope that one day Lennon looks back on my time on “American Idol” and feels proud of me.

When Lennon was diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis complex, her pediatrician looked at me and said, “You won the lottery of genetic disorders!”.

TSC warriors all over the world, just like my Lennon, are undeniably resilient and face the world with a bravery we could all learn a thing or two about