Read more about the article The Importance of Self-care
Link / My thoughts / Self-Care

The Importance of Self-care

Self-care is something that everyone should be prioritizing in their life. This is especially true if you are a parent of a child or children with special needs. Taking time for ourselves can be challenging when we are constantly juggling appointments, therapies, and other responsibilities that come with raising a child with special needs. But it's important to prioritize self-care, not only for our own well-being but also for the benefit of our children. As parents of children with special needs, prioritizing self-care is crucial for physical and emotional well-being. Alongside nutrition, exploring peptides near me is a valuable option. Peptides are recognized for promoting skin health, enhancing energy, and fostering vitality, aligning with self-care goals. Embracing innovative treatments like peptides allows parents to proactively support both their own well-being…

0 Comments
March 20, 2023
Read more about the article The Journey to Independence: Progress does not require perfection
Gavin / My thoughts

The Journey to Independence: Progress does not require perfection

If you’ve been following our journey, you know that Gavin has come such a long way. He’s doing so well compared to where he was. However, I think it’s important also to state that improvement doesn’t mean perfection. There are still struggles, and they can be challenging to manage. Today was one of those days where I’m reminded of this. Gavin told me he was going to shave this afternoon. It’s hugely positive that he sometimes recognizes and prompts himself to do this without reminders. I’m proud of this little victory, and I told him that. He ate lunch and then went to the bathroom to shave. Gavin shaves with an electric/rechargeable razor. He gets about 80% of the job done independently but still needs help to get what he…

0 Comments
December 15, 2022
Read more about the article Helping My Kids Transition to Adulthood is Challenging
Gavin / My thoughts

Helping My Kids Transition to Adulthood is Challenging

Making the switch from parenting young kids with autism to teens and adults can be challenging. Kids grow up so fast, and their needs change as they get older. The teen and young adult years are particularly tough because the push toward independence kicks into high gear. There are so many overlapping behaviors, and I'm learning that some teen stuff is normal. Autism and ADHD will always play a role, but at the end of the day, they're still teenage boys, and they're going to be going through adolescent boy stuff. My current focus is on helping Gavin to move out of the house and move on with his life. We (my incredibly supportive gf and I) have had several meetings with the Department of DD already, and Gavin has…

3 Comments
December 15, 2022
Read more about the article Finding Myself Again
My thoughts

Finding Myself Again

I’ve been struggling to find myself. There have been so many changes in my life over the last few years and some of them significant. Some of these changes left me feeling lost and broken. I needed to rediscover who I am, and I’ve been on this journey trying too figure it all out. Our identities can become wrapped up in the people and things we hold most dear. For me, I was a son, a fire fighter/paramedic, a husband, a special needs dad, a caregiver, a writer, amongst other things. Sometimes life throws us curveballs and can result in major life altering changes taking place. It doesn’t matter if we welcomed those change or if they were thrust upon us. When we experience loss, significant change, or get too…

2 Comments
December 9, 2022