Help from Unexpected Places

Having a child with special needs, whether physical or emotional, can be incredibly alienating. All too often since starting my blog I've heard from parents, mostly moms, who feel alone on this journey. They often have no one to talk to, no one to rely on for help and comfort, no one to laugh and cry with -- no one who understands. Friends drop away, family members judge, schools criticize, and marriages crumble. The stories are heartbreaking.

But every now and then someone comes along who reaches out to us, often unexpectedly, to tell us it's all going to be OK. Today's "reach out" moment is brought to you by Elizabeth Aquino, blogger at a moon, worn as if it had been a shell.

Just to warn you...I watched this video with tears streaming down my face.

Note: This video was shared with me by someone who has reached out her hand in friendship and support. Thank you, Kiki, for being my "help from unexpected places."

Speaking Engagement -- I Am Not a Bad Kid!!!

I'm honoured to have been asked by the Diocese of Ontario of the Anglican Church to give a presentation in Kingston, Ontario, on September 15th. Actually, I'm giving it in conjunction with my minister, the Rev. Dr. Barbara Robinson, who has been instrumental in creating a warm and inviting environment for Bear and our family at our church. She is the mother of a child like Bear, although he's an adult now, so she has the ability to look at the challenge of integrating special needs children into the church from a really interesting perspective. If you are in the area, I invite you to come join in the conversation.