Family
From parenting, to caregiving, to understanding who we are, these pieces focus on navigating family dynamics and disability.
Here’s What Dr. Phil Got Wrong in His Episode on Interabled Relationships
I’ve spent a good portion of the last week thinking about a recent episode of Dr. Phil that featured an interabled couple and more ableist tropes than should ever be allowed in 2019. I watched the episode. I read articles…
How Do You Figure Out Who You Are When You’re the Only Disabled Person in Your Family?
Your glasses scare people,” said my mother, matter-of-factly. The comment stung, but I knew she was correct. We were discussing why, at 16 years-old, I could not get very many babysitting jobs in my suburban neighborhood. My sister had just…
How My Parents Helped Me Find My Disabled Identity
I have always loved the way drums sound. During parades, my focus was always on the marchers with the snares; while at concerts my neck was perpetually craned as I struggled to see over the taller members of the crowd …
No, I’m Not the Patient: Caring for an Aging Parent When You’re Disabled and Everyone Thinks You’re the One Dying
Caring for an aging (or ill) parent or loved one is always complicated. That subtle shift that takes place over time— where the parent becomes the one being cared for, instead of the other way around. It’s a journey as…
My Son’s Disability Taught Me to Be Proud of My Own Disability
When I was born, the doctors told my parents I was blind. That was the first line of my college application essay and the narrative starting point of my life. My parents took me to the doctor because my eyes…
VIDEO: New Disabled Parent Adventures in Advocacy
Happy Mother’s Day! Today is a day where we all celebrate our mothers. But did you know that parents with disabilities are far more at risk of losing custody of their children than non-disabled parents? Removal rates can be as…
As a Chronically Ill Mom, Even Tater Tots Are a Way to Show My Kids Love
My Nonnie was a gruff and funny woman who, even at Thanksgiving, put a huge slab of lasagna on our plates as an appetizer. Even with a turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, breaded cauliflower, oil and vinegar salad, pumpkin pie,…