Valentine

You Are Growing

If there were growth charts for parents of children with special needs, the first percentile would represent shock, denial, doubt in our ability to handle such an overwhelming challenge. Maybe, at one time, you were off the bottom of that particular chart. But with time, you passed that first percentile, then the fifth, growing a little steadier, then the tenth, growing a little stronger. Somewhere around the 50th percentile, you found acceptance of your child's disabilities; around the 60th, the ability to enjoy your child's unique gifts.

As you grow in knowledge of and advocacy for your child's special needs, you are growing in other ways, too - in patience, in tolerance, in spirituality. There may be plateaus and fall backs, but your personal growth is nonetheless dazzling.
Terri Mauro
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Well, growing is an understatement. I look back and think who I was in my 20s or my even my early 30s and I'm NOT the same person. I could have NEVER handled the stuff I handle now if I was the same as I was in my 20s. When I look back it's almost like I was an entirely different person. Granted, we all grow, but I feel like I've changed dramatically. Even from 10 years ago. It's amazing the gifts that have been brought into my life because of S. My life has slowed WAY down - had to. She DEMANDS schedule, DEMANDS similarity. Not to mention all the wonderful people I've met along the way. Ms Jan - the first of a long line of GREAT teachers, Ms. A who showed me that S WILL grow up and that there IS a place for her. Ms S and Ms G who will forever be the GREATEST aides that have EVER been. All the therapists, Chris- who has been in this with us for over 7 years now. There's just SO many people who have given so much for her to succeed.