by Jana Galarus, Family Peer Supporter

April 11, 2023
Forgiveness is something that can be described in so many ways by everyone. I describe forgiveness as the power to move on, heal, recover and to have inner peace and grace in life. It takes courage, mental strength, bravery, humility, and compassion. For some of us it also takes emotional and spiritual awareness to forgive.

Maria Edgeworth stated:

“Surely it is much more generous to forgive and remember, than to forgive and forget.”

I am a mom with special needs children and I was taking care of my elderly dad. I remember times in life where I felt like it was me and my family up against the world of administrators, doctors, insurance companies, lawyers and teachers. I was so angry, frustrated and tired of fighting for everyday rights it felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders. At moments I thought it would be the death of my soul as a person. The bitterness, and frustration of emotions that I was going through was not the person that I am naturally in life. I didn’t understand this at the time.

I eventually forgave them, and myself, but I will never forget. This allowed me and my family the power to be the people that we are today and live healthier and happier lives.

The Bible says, “Forgive them, for they have not known what they do.”

I don’t wish anyone who reads this to take offense as I realize we are all spiritual in different ways.

With years of forgiveness for them and myself I have since allowed some of them to come back into our life. Some of them have since apologized and done right by us.

Maya Angelo said:

“It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.”

Forgiveness helps us feel better, it gives us freedom and hopefully it will make us live longer. It will decrease anxiety, stress and blood pressure. Remember to breath add some self-care to your life.

Every parent has made mistakes. Every child makes mistakes. Every parent has had an argument with their child and every child has argued with their parents. This is to be human. Talk about it and if you can’t, write a letter about it so they know how you feel. Forgive each other this will allow you to be more open.

Remember forgiveness and healing is a choice. It’s the best form of love. It takes a strong person to say your sorry and stronger person to forgive.

by Kayla Myers, Family Peer Supporter

March 30, 2023

When I was first asked to write a blog geared to the topic “Beyond Recovery”, I tried to really think about how I could incorporate a memory that had just shown on Facebook that morning. This was the first public statement I had made about my son’s and my story regarding his struggles. Here is the post I am referring to:

“As a mother, you never really know what you are going to get. I mean you have an idea, but then that idea turns into the real deal. To figuring out a groove for your household, to waking up in the middle of the night to console your baby, and then moving on to their toddler years (boy those are a treat). Your children start to grow and mold into the people they will become. Some personalities can be outgoing, some reserved, or some a little of both. And the funny thing is as their parents, we love our children equally but love them individually for who they are. Just when you have difficulty parenthood throws at you and you have it figured out, surprise, here comes another! So, you roll with the punches and figure it out the best you know how.

My youngest has always been the sweetest soul. But then at the same time he has worried me more times than I can count. From his excessive ear infections, to being hospitalized for bronchiolitis, and now to being a two-and-a-half-year-old who’s vocabulary is that of a one-year-old. He is in speech, OT, and play therapy. He could have a form of apraxia, he has sensory issues, or he could be on the spectrum. Knowing your child is smart, and happy, but doesn’t want to engage in communication through words is heartbreaking. As a mother, you just want life to be easy for your child. For the world to be kind to them while they figure it all out. As his mom, I will do anything for him to grow and learn. So that is my promise to you baby boy. I will fight for you, I will speak for you until you can, and I will never stop loving you for being “different” or for needing more time than the kids your age.

This is a super vulnerable post. So, I ask, be kind with your words. We are doing everything we possibly can for our boy. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”

When I read this post from five years ago and reflect, it makes me emotional and I wish I could give myself a big hug. I had love and understanding from friends and family, but no real support on “how and what” to do next. Bryce and I are far from any finish line on his journey, but I know we are beyond recovering from the fear of the unknown, helplessness, and the deep-rooted biased society has placed on those who are neurodiverse. I know now how hard he’s worked and how far we have come on this journey together. I have so many more answers and tools under my belt to best advocate for him and how to meet him where he is. All in all, “Beyond Recovery” means that I get to show Bryce everyday my love for him is not conditional but rather unconditional, he has advocates who will do what’s best for him, and he can authentically himself. Now we can use our story to help support other parents to be the best advocates for their children.