The year 2012 was an eye opener for me. Often as parents and caregivers of our children or family members with special needs, we often forget about ourselves. I have grown accustomed to forgetting about my own needs as I've met the needs of my children, cared for the home I've provided for them, kept food on the table, therapy services met, bathing, toilet assisting dressing, administering medication, doctors appointments, evaluations, you name it and there I am. All the while, my own issues and grievances are swept under the carpet to collect dust. I tell myself, there are no time for tears, no time to be idle and certainly no time to worry.
I have a mission to bring awareness to cerebral palsy and developmental disabilities however, there is one area that every parent needs to be aware of, and that is the well being and nurturing of your mind, body and soul! Don't forget that you too are human... I want each of you to take one or two of these helpful hints and find ways to cater to YOU:
1.Develop an OPEN and HONEST relationship with God!
2. Open your mind to expect the great by preparing yourself mentally to receive whatever it is.
3. Embrace assistance from family members and friends (especially for my single parents).
4. Use your resources for respite care and in-home-assistance (Home Health Aide).
5. Find you a secret place.
6. Write in a journal or blog.
7. Don't be afraid to say NO.
8. Get tough, tell that person how much they hurt you.
9. Yell
10. Cry for no good reason.
11. Share your thoughts with local groups.
12. Learn to let go of what you can't change.
13. Remember, you deserve love, affection, and attention too!
14. Accept your flaws and all, nobody who walks this earth is perfect.
15. Make a plan, and follow through till the end.
16. Stop blaming yourself for your child or family members disabilities.
17. Use every negative offense as an opportunity for positive energy.
18. Believe someone when they show you who they are the FIRST time.
19. Tell yourself, "Things are going to get better".
20. God is not trying to hurt you because of the disability, but clearly to perfect your character!
Ready or not, 2013 is less than 8 hours away, although there may not be enough time to accomplish every item on the list, remember that you are important and needed, and will not be forgotten by God! May this year be the year of great things for each of you and your families! I look forward to sharing the website with you all when construction is complete, be sure to look out for us as we strive to meet the needs of families and parents of children and individuals with cerebral palsy and developmental disabilities! www.successwithspecialneeds.com
Love you all!
Shannon
