Why I Don’t Worry About My Son with a Disability

home insemination Kit

I grew up in a time when kids like me often shied away from those who stood out—especially those with disabilities. It’s hard to admit, but we tended to avoid anyone who walked differently, breathed heavily, or needed special assistance in school. I remember the girl with scoliosis; her labored speech was something I couldn’t quite understand back then. I didn’t mean to be unkind; I just didn’t know better.

Back in seventh grade, I witnessed a classmate seize on the playground. We all watched in silence, and the next day, he showed up like nothing had happened. I didn’t think to ask how he was doing. Looking back, I realize how brave he was just to come back to school. We went on with our lives, and he went on with his.

Now, as a mom of a child with a rare genetic condition, I reflect on my past. My son has a chronic lung disease and struggles with basic tasks like walking and breathing. He just started taking unassisted steps, but his gait is unstable, and he’s been using oxygen for over a year. Sometimes, he can barely speak at all.

It’s ironic, isn’t it? You’d think I’d be filled with dread about his future, worrying about how he’ll be treated by peers. But oddly enough, I feel hopeful. The internet has transformed the landscape for people with disabilities, giving them a platform to share their stories. In 2015, I can easily find blogs about parenting kids with conditions like Down syndrome or cystic fibrosis. There’s a wealth of information from parents, healthcare providers, and even the individuals themselves.

Society is shifting toward kindness. Behaviors that were once overlooked are now called out, making unkindness socially unacceptable. It’s our job as parents to leverage this change. We should encourage our kids to reach out to classmates who may be different. Teach them that every step into the school building is a small miracle for some. Let’s guide them to ask questions, fostering understanding rather than avoidance.

Together, we can build a kinder world for our children, a far cry from the 1980s when I grew up.

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In summary, while my own childhood experiences could dictate fear for my son’s future, I choose to embrace a hopeful outlook. The world is changing for the better, and it’s up to us to nurture that kindness in the next generation.