Michael is married and a father of three, one being a child with SMA Type II (born in June, 2011). He is an educator who has worked directly with children and their families since 1994. He loves his family, writing, working with his hands, and taking road trips. Michael holds a bachelor’s in psychology (1994) and a master’s in education (2001).
Children grow. They grow older. They lengthen. They gain weight. The same is true for kids with SMA. Because they are wheelchair-bound, their caregivers spend much of the day lifting them in and out of their wheelchairs. Lifting them for various reasons can be…
“Get off the pillow!” screamed Ava. “It’s my pillow. You get outta my room!” yelled Ella. “You wanted me in here…” argued Ava. “Well, now I don’t, so GET OUT!” screeched Ella. It’s a game of…
The nature of SMA Type 2 makes everyday tasks difficult. Brushing teeth, getting dressed, and even drinking water can pose challenges that require others’ help. Accepting help is part of my daughter Ella’s daily life, something she’s become accustomed to from…
Around almost every corner of each wall on our first floor we have small corner protectors. This is to combat Ella clipping the corners as she cruises around the house. We purposely bought our current house because the doorways from room to room are wide…
Her lips quiver, but days before they sported a wide smile. She grabs for my hand in an attempt to gain comfort, but a day before she gave me high fives. The noises from her mouth are those of distress, but days before they were squeals of joy.
Just overhead, an ominous, black cloud lingers despite a gentle breeze. The sun shines brightly behind some errant white clouds and blue skies peek out between. Slow, rolling movements make us wait to see which weather will prevail. In the distance, a rainbow forms, arching across…
The battery level on Ella’s power wheelchair Flashing lights, beeping sounds, and a host of power in her little grip. The Permobile C300 is Ella’s power wheelchair. A 304-pound purple machine that provides her with mobility. The C300 has indicators that allow its drivers to know how…
Henry, Ava, Ella, Daddy, and Mommy. Ella is an almost 7-year-old who has been driving a 300+ lb power wheelchair since she was 18 months old. She has had her share of banging into corners, taking chunks out of the drywall, and catching herself in doorways. Occasionally,…
