As parents, we play a vital role in the life of our children. As special needs parents, that even more true. The reality is that in some cases, our kids will need us for as long as we can physically be here.

One of my worst fears is the day that I’m no longer here to take care of my kids. 

One of the things I’m doing instead of allowing that fear to take over is embrace it. I embrace that fear and let it drive me to take better care of myself.  I use that fear to motivate me into making better life decisions. 

It’s so incredibly easy to get lost in the everyday life of special needs parenting.  We do and do for our kids, often times at great expense to our own wellbeing.

When I was a firefighter and paramedic, one of the very first things we were taught was that the safety of myself and my partner must always come first. That may seem counterintuitive but it’s absolutely correct.

If I rolled up on the scene of an auto accident and put myself or my partner in harms way and something happens to us, not only are there more injuries to worry about but how can I help anyone if I’m hurt myself?

The same holds true with special needs parenting.

If you don’t take care of yourself, Who will be here to take care of your kids? It’s a sobering thought but one that must be taken seriously.

As part of Autism Awareness Month, I will be encouraging parents to do their best to make time for themselves. Take time to de-stress, watch what you eat and exercise.

Having said that, I’ll be leading by example and doing the same thing.  I will also be sharing what I do and any progress I make. 

Here is what I managed to pull off today. I took Lizze to the track and we were able to squeeze in 1.5 miles before picking up the boys. 

Every little bit, adds up over time. 

This site is managed via WordPress for Android, courtesy of the @SamsungMobileUS Galaxy Note 2 by @Tmobile. Please forgive any typos as autocorrect HATES me. 😉

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For more ways to help the Lost and Tired family, please visit Help the Lost and Tired Family.