Yesterday my husband and I sat in a crowded auditorium and watched our first child cross the stage and accept his high school diploma. This capped off a month of seeing him receive two special awards and a scholarship. To say I was proud would be an understatement. It was amazing to see my son recognized for all the hard work he put into his academic career. As I sat … [Read more...]
Sometimes When I Guide My Special Needs Daughter Understanding Can Be The Hardest Thing To Find
“Hi Mrs. Radigan. Is Lizzy toilet trained? Do you need a cup for her to leave a sample for her physical this morning?” My expression reflexively said, “Of course she’s toilet trained, she’s 15 and not only is this the same practice that’s been taking care of her since she was born, you personally have known her this whole time.” But I remained silent despite my anger, … [Read more...]
My Daughter and I: the Day to Day Reality of Raising a Child With Special Needs
Today my daughter and I used a birthday gift card from her godfather to the hair-accessory-jewelry-everything-a-pink-loving-girl-could-possibly-want store, Claire’s. As Lizzy and I managed our way through the racks of headbands with flowers, gems, and bows, I got very anxious. All Lizzy wanted to do was be left alone to pick out what she wanted. That’s a very normal thing … [Read more...]
My Special Family and Autism Awareness Month
Last Tuesday my son let me know that he was asked to speak on a panel that was kicking off his high school’s participation in Autism Awareness month. “Mom, they want me to speak about being a friend to kids on the spectrum as well as a brother to a sister with autism.” Part of me was proud and thrilled for him. Tom’s best friend is not only an amazing, brilliant young man … [Read more...]
The Harder Days of Being a Special Needs Mom
The other day I found myself getting angry, frustrated, and even sad at a parenting article I read in a magazine. The funny thing is, it wasn’t a piece on the pros and cons of feeding your kid sugar, whether I’m a good or bad mother because I stay home, or whether my youngest child is forever damaged because I bottle fed him but nursed his older brother and sister. No, it … [Read more...]
