The long-awaited days of summer have nearly arrived, and I am doing my best to take full advantage of the warmer weather. After so many months of sweaters that make it harder for me to move and sporadic snow flurries late into the year, it’s refreshing to throw open the…
For the past few months, I have been experiencing some debilitating health issues. I’ve spoken with my doctors. I’ve tried different medications. And while as a team, we have figured out ways to give my body some reprieve at times, the root issue has yet to be diagnosed and resolved.
June 7 was my 46th wedding anniversary. My parents reached their 50th anniversary 17 years ago. It is mind-boggling that my husband, Randy, and I are already old enough to ponder our own golden celebration. I have mentioned Randy in almost every column, if not all of them.
Technology is a big part of our lives these days. It helps us with learning, shopping, and communicating, among other facets. Kids today rely on technology for many of their needs. But what about kids with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)? How do they fare in this…
“I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you!” Samwise Gamgee shouts in “The Lord of the Rings,” as he carries Frodo up Mount Doom to destroy the ring of power. It’s an iconic tear-jerker movie moment,…
I love the disability community. I love our resilience, our creativity, and our willingness to adapt and change. We have visions of an inclusive world that celebrates diversity and supports marginalized people in their pursuit of fulfillment and vitality. To celebrate disability, we must acknowledge the…
Dusk was settling in. The sun had clocked out for the day, and as it traveled farther and farther away toward its sleeping quarters, the moonlight grew radiant in the stillness of the evening. I stared intently at the tall grass of the tree line. I waited patiently for…
Ella has always loved to sing. Because she can’t join physical activities or play an instrument, we decided to enroll her in the Young Naperville Singers (YNS) choir. Ella was overjoyed. She finally had something like her brother and sister — who study piano and…
“I know I’m on my period,” I told my dad, “because I’m crying at the mere possibility of Rey not knowing that I love her.” Rey, of course, is the newest member of the Albers family. I’ve…
We recently welcomed a new addition to our family. Our adorable puppy, Thor, is a mix of Australian shepherd (75%) and blue heeler (25%). Another name for this mix is Pure Cuteness. Thor seems to be adjusting well to his new home.
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