advice

I Didn’t Want to Learn Hard Caregiving Lessons, but Now I’m Grateful

I Didn’t Want to Learn Hard Caregiving Lessons, but Now I’m Grateful

My entire life, literally since I was two years old, has revolved around caregiving. Therefore I assumed I was prepared for the challenges our family faced after my mother was diagnosed with dementia in 2008. That assumption proved correct until January of 2023 when Mom entered hospice care. Over the six months leading to her departure from this earth, advocating for her was all encompassing. I didn’t want, nor did I have time to learn hard caregiving lessons. With each passing day I became more grateful for how they drew and are still drawing me closer to God. And so, I want to share them with you.

Thanks for That (I Think)

Thanks for That (I Think)

Whether you have typically developing children or children with special needs, there are others who seem to have an answer for why your child is misbehaving, not talking or walking on time, or a myriad of other developmental or behavioral issues. All along the way, we tried to employ a few simple words and thoughts that helped us get through those “suggestions,” that may help you, too.

More Than Just A Parent - Part 3

More Than Just A Parent - Part 3

Like many special needs parents, John Felageller has experienced times when medical or education professionals have treated his perspective on his son with special needs as less important and valuable than theirs. In this third post in his series, John addresses what may be the most difficult experience of all for special needs families: when you have struggles working with children's or special needs ministries. John offers valuable takeaways, including recognizing when you need to give back and serve others who are most in need.