Speech (or no speech) and the kid with special needs.

A Facebook friend posted this today: From your child with special needs: “Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the lord to give me words to speak. But if they never come this way, let my mommy know everything will be ok. Boy, howdy, did this one hit home. I’ve been thinking of… [Continue Reading]

Welcome to Beirut by Susan F. Rzucidlo

Bright and early Saturday morning I headed up to a Utah Parent Partner meeting at the Utah Family Voices offices.  It seems as though there are a few at Parker’s Pediatrician’s office who think I might be good at this kind of stuff….pointing parents in the direction of needed resources.  Personally I think everyone else… [Continue Reading]

It’s not just about keeping Parker alive….

I’ve lost 18 pounds.  Really it should be more.  I gave up my beloved Dr. Pepper over ice weeks ago. I haven’t even had a Diet Coke. I should be in a size 6 by now, right?   Isn’t that the way it works? All this water I’ve been drinking should have flushed my system thin. I… [Continue Reading]

The Red Thread and My Child with Special Needs

There is a Chinese folklore, which tells about the connection of family members.  The Chinese say that there are invisible red threads that connect a newborn child’s spirit to all of the people that will be important in their life.  As the child grows, the threads shorten to bring these people closer together.   Parker’s… [Continue Reading]

Making Medicaid More Transparent: A Question From A Utah Legislator

I was asked to get opinions on this idea by a Legislator.  I will be sharing your comments with this Legislator, so now is your time to allow your ideas to be heard.  When struggling with accountability within the welfare system the lack of transparency (where the money is going and on whose behalf?) makes… [Continue Reading]

Expectation and the Child with Special Needs

I’ve noticed lately that sometimes adults expect less out of kids with special needs than they do from typical kids. “Oh, that’s okay.”  Don’t worry about it.  I understand.” Um.  No, it’s not.  Not only will he pick that up but he’ll apologize to you as well, I think to myself.  Just like any other… [Continue Reading]

Stop SOPA