Medically Fragile

Uncertainty and Lack of Control: What's a Caregiver to Do?

Uncertainty and Lack of Control: What's a Caregiver to Do?

If uncertainty and lack of control—whether as a caregiver or for a completely different reason—are sending you reeling, sit for a minute. Take some deep breaths and ask yourself a question.

Celebrating Fifteen Years with Down Syndrome

Celebrating Fifteen Years with Down Syndrome

All life is God-given and is to be celebrated. There was a time long ago that I lost sight of this perspective. God patiently waited for me to look past the words of a diagnosis to see my daughter for who she was created to be. On this World Down Syndrome Day, I appreciate all the time I have spent raising my child with Down syndrome.

Four Signs That I'm On The Struggle Bus

Four Signs That I'm On The Struggle Bus

I am no stranger to struggles as someone raising a child with special and medical needs. It is easy for me to downplay the degree to which I am mentally struggling. But I now see that when I claim to be fine when reality suggests otherwise, that’s an unhealthy denial. Here are four signs that my struggles are not “fine,” and some things that have been helpful for me, when I acknowledge these symptoms.

Sowing Seeds of Promise for My Daughter's Future

Sowing Seeds of Promise for My Daughter's Future

My father, brother, and nephews possess much knowledge to grow soybeans, wheat, and corn, but some vital aspects of farming are out of their control. Similarly, my husband and I plan and plot care and opportunities for our daughter who has developmental disabilities, but there are some things out of our control. We wait, pray, hope, and support our daughter, until the time when we reap what we have sown into her as a child.

Four Steps to Help Make Difficult Decisions

Four Steps to Help Make Difficult Decisions

There are an overabundance of decisions to make in life right now. For many people I know, school decisions are presently giving parents much to ponder. Some parents are admittedly terrified of making the wrong decision for their child. Here are four things that my husband and I do when we are faced with difficult decisions.