A diagnosis of a disability or mental illness of a family member affects all family members. It is life-altering and can be life-shattering. It blindsides families leaving them with a myriad of conflicting emotions and numerous unanswered questions. Will my son/daughter be OK? Was it my fault? What do I do now? How can I go on?
Families are defined as those individuals who provide education, safety, support, and love to their members, so they can overcome the adversities of life by building their resilience muscle. Resilience is the act of finding positive pathways to adapting and overcoming disability and other adversities.Resilience is taught and cultivated in families. Healthy families don’t prepare the path for those under their care; they prepare them for the path. I believe that we develop resilience as we cultivate our relationships with God, ourselves, and others. I have worked in the public school system for over three decades and am blessed to be a parent of an amazing daughter with special needs. These experiences have given me a comprehensive understanding of special education law, programs, policies, and procedures. I can help families navigate the educational system to obtain the supports and services their loved ones need to live their best lives.
My goal is to create a community of individuals who are equipped, educated, and empowered to develop exceptional individuals spiritually and to guide them as they achieve their greatest level of independence as contributing, responsible, equal partners in society. Let’s share our sorrows, joy, fears, confusion, and frustration until we have seen this journey through. Until our differences make no difference, all are included, and our unique gifts are valued and celebrated.
