by Evana Sandusky | Oct 7, 2024 | Disability Awareness, Down syndrome, Special Needs Parenting
I vividly remember the moment the pediatrician gently told my husband and I that our newborn was not the picture of health we envisioned. Just hours after her birth, I was resting in the hospital bed dressed in a stylish oversized gown. I was counting down the hours...
by Evana Sandusky | May 10, 2024 | Caregiving, Special Needs Parenting
When I was a child, I sometimes found myself in trouble. My parents were fair disciplinarians. I typically received short punishments and a verbal correction when I messed up. When you’re a child, it is understandable that you will sometimes miss the mark. Parents are...
by Evana Sandusky | Apr 1, 2024 | Caregiving, Down syndrome, Special Needs Parenting, Spiritual Growth
I hear the familiar engine roar outside my window. Looking out, I see soil churning and my older brother pulling a piece of farm equipment through the field. Planting season is upon us. For my father, brother, and nephews, it is a season filled with long hours in the...
by Evana Sandusky | Mar 20, 2024 | Down syndrome, Special Needs Parenting, Special needs siblings
At age 18, my daughter stands under 5 feet tall. Her brown, wavy hair falls just below her shoulders. Most days, she prefers her hair to be worn up in a ponytail. Her shoe of choice is crocs. With no laces or buckles, they seem to work well for her. She adores the...
by Evana Sandusky | Apr 10, 2023 | Caregiving, Down syndrome, Special Needs Parenting
As soon as I woke up, my body revolted. My hip somehow fell out of place again, making each movement painful. I eased out of bed straight to the bottle of ibuprofen and Icy Hot. In a few hours, I would feel better, but it would be brutal until my muscles loosened...
