I find really interesting information on LinkedIn's "Special Needs Group." This link came through just in time for Mother's Day:
Moms, a stranger walks among you. We look like regular moms, but we are the hybrid to your standard engine. Our child's disability altered us, enhanced us. Many words describe us: resilient, creative, protective, emboldened, sympathetic, fierce and determined. We are special needs moms. How do our lives stand apart from your own? Take a look under the hood and see for yourself.
by Dawn Villarreal, One Place for Special Needs
When we put out Regular moms vs Special needs moms, we invited other special needs parents to write their own take on how having a special needs child has changed their perspective on day to day living. You did not disappoint. These responses are more thoughtful than our light-hearted original and reflect just a little slice of our lives.
Some exuberant parents, eager to share, posted the piece on regular parenting sites. They got an earful from a few moms who felt it implied that their lives were easy. To those moms I say that our life experiences are the sum of who we are. A regular mom really is busy until something happens (e.g. medical hardship, taking care of a parent, financial troubles) that changes her perception.
As special needs parents we have been given extra challenges in our lives and have risen to that challenge. I have no doubt other mothers would do the same if put in that situation, although I hope they never have to. It is my hope that if you are a parent of a healthy, non-disabled child who is friends with a special needs parent, that you will take the time to better understand their world. We are not looking for sympathy but we do appreciate the support of your friendship one mom to another.
by Dawn Villarreal, One Place for Special Needs
Regular moms versus special needs moms - parents speak up at One Place for Special Needs
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