I’ve always been really transparent on this blog. Sometimes Reed has looked at me and asked, ‘are you sure you want to share that?’
I’ve shared because, well….
1) For those who might be contemplating ending the life of a child with Down syndrome even before it began. All of Parker’s health issues really aren’t typical for a kid with Ds, and I wanted the world to know that if Parker’s life was worth living, then the life of their child born, or unborn, was also worth living.
2) I wanted to let other parents know that they weren’t alone.
3) I wanted to show ‘the other side’ what life on this side of the diagnosis was like…. in a very real way.
Recently I’ve had something happen that has made me realize that perhaps I’ve been too transparent. And of course there always seems to be someone in the wings waiting to take advantage of that. Trying to trip you up when you know you’ve nothing to hide.
This youngest kid of mine is amazing. The journey, while sometimes rough, is ever so worth it.
I look at Parker now, a strapping (okay, you get my gist) young man of 7, and I look at all the new littles traveling this same road. I often think of the Mamas before us who refused to put their child in an institution, creating their own educational and therapy programs because for their child none existed.
I want to help pave the road that makes life for all kids with special needs more inclusive and much less exclusive.
I want my footprints to join in with the ones ahead of me and the ones behind me, knowing that while we may be separated by our generations our hearts are and will always be one.
Twitter: Alicecrumbs
says:
I’m sorry you’ve been discouraged. I love reading about Parker and I appreciate your honesty. We’re rooting for you! Xxx
Twitter: AMomBlog
says:
I’m sorry you’ve been discouraged by some comments left. I love reading your blog and hearing about how Parker is doing. He is an amazing little boy and I thank you for sharing his smiles and even the hard times with us. It does make me feel less alone.
My child doesn’t have Ds nor is he as fragile health wise as Parker but he is a special needs child. No sometimes it isn’t easy and finances become a huge wall to go up against but no matter what your child and my child and every other child, special needs or not have a life worth living, a life full of quality and happiness. The joys we receive are beyond worth any hardships we face. Thank you for sharing both your hardships and your joys.
You and Parker have made your footsteps in my heart. xoxo
People are so ridiculous anymore with their zeal over politics-assuming that’s what it was about. Somehow, they believe (bolstered by the Glen Beck’s of the world) that getting their opinion out there is more important than civility. I really hope we all re-learn how to be human first sometime really soon.
I’m sorry you were the latest victim of this sort of thing. Of course, the guilty catholic-raised girl in me first thought ‘was it me? Did I upset her?? oh no!’ when I read this!
But then, that’s me. I have to figure out where exactly I was when I hear about a hit-and -run, just to be sure!!
((((Hugs))))
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Blessings to you and your family, hang in there!
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Just know that there are a lot more of us that love to read about Parker. You share wonderful ideas. I especially love ideas I can immediately use in my room (never thought about gluing laminated stuff and then peeling the glue and those awesome portable sensory bins you created!!) as well as ideas for parents at home. You are an awesome advocate for your child, and you know him best. Don’t let a few bitter and judgemental people pull you down!
Thank you for sharing your story … it is not only important to those out there who share your challenges, but as you said to make the world a more inclusive place for children with special needs.
Thank you for stopping by my blog. I am amazed with the strength of your family and your son. He is special and a true blessing. I find your blog inspirational and I look forward to reading more from you.
Jessica