Jacqueline

I’ve been changing diapers for 22 years I understand the precious feeling of having time by myself before the caretaking begins AGAIN I can pull a grocery cart and steer a wheelchair so well that it should be an Olympic sport I appreciate the fragility of human life having almost lost Anna more than once […]

I dreaded the talk of guardianship when Anna was turning 18.  It wasn’t because I was confused, it was another thing that we need to do as special needs mothers, the Warrior role.  It was talked about almost incessantly at every IEP.  Then again at other meetings with Anna’s social worker.  Since Anna has a

I am finishing a book by another Warrior mom, Kate Swenson.  It is called “Forever Boy.”  It was given to me by my Aunt.  My aunt is a lovely person whom I have had the chance in recent years to get closer to and visit more.  It has been a joy to read this book

I’ve had many people over the years remark to me about what a “Strong, resilient, powerful, super energized, wondrous person” I am for having the stamina and love to give to Anna.  I feel great when I hear these words for sure.  I always feel that if they could just come inside me and feel

It’s that time of year again.  Winter Break.  We like it somewhat with our typical kids but with our special kids it’s all hands on.  This break always falls during Paul’s Birthday.  He is going to be the big “60.”  This week Anna is off and Paul always has to have his birthday with Anna

What a week.  What happens when the Warrior goes down?  It’s more than what you can imagine.  In our case, if the Warrior is down the whole house is changed.  Moms run the roost.  At least this is my scenario.  We keep things going, organized, stocked, filed, cleaned, updated, filled, piled, cooked, ready, uploaded, decorated,

It’s not what you think. In fact, we Warriors have to think about it very carefully.  At times plan every move.  It’s not as easy as you would think to use the bathroom with your child.  Of course, I’m not talking about at home, I’m talking about out in the world.   There are many scenarios

What does self care or the term I used above “Individual love” mean to you?  Is it happening in your life?  Do you have a trip planned?  Do you get away from the stress of caring for your special needs family member often enough?  What is often?  I hope you are taking the needed breaks

The joys and sorrows that come with special needs parenting ebb and flow to other things in our lives.  Take for example, cars.  Now consider a  wheelchair van.  I have had four wheelchair vans since Anna was 9 years old.  That is four vans in 13 years.  This is not so good.  We never buy

And it’s a go, a go go go!  We went as planned and took Anna back to the roller skating rink.  It was so fulfilling for all of us.  We went to Riverside Arena in Plymouth, Michigan.   It’s fun to step back in time for me.   I skated as a kid a lot.  Like